Description

The Department of Aerospace Engineering & Mechanics (AEM) at the University of Minnesota seeks to fill a tenure-track/tenured faculty position in the area of computational fluid dynamics. Successful candidates are expected to have the potential to conduct a vigorous and significant research program along with the ability to collaborate with researchers with a wide range of viewpoints. Candidates will participate in all aspects of AEM's mission, including (I) teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in aerospace engineering and mechanics to a diverse group of students; (II) participating in service activities for the department, University, broader scientific community, and society; and (III) supervising undergraduate and graduate students and developing an independent, externally-funded research program.  

Faculty positions are 9-month, full-time appointments located on the Twin Cities Campus. The target start date for this round of hiring is Fall 2026; however other start dates will be considered. 

Requirements

Qualifications 

Applicants at the Assistant Professor level are expected to have an outstanding track record of academic excellence with the drive to establish extramurally funded research programs through independent and collaborative research. Applicants at the Associate and Full Professor level are expected to have an established extramurally funded research program and a robust track record of publication and collaboration. All applicants are required to hold a Ph.D. degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. 

About the Department  

The Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics (AEM) is in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota, which is a world-class research university with outstanding resources and programs in engineering and science, health sciences, social sciences and liberal arts. The department has vibrant and active research programs in all areas of aerospace engineering and mechanics including fluid dynamics, hypersonics, solid mechanics and materials, and aerospace systems and GNC. The department is poised for growth in both its academic programs and research areas and seeks to expand its faculty by making a number of strategic hires over the next several years. The AEM department has close ties with on-campus multidisciplinary centers, and convenient access to outstanding shared experimental and computational facilities, such as the Gemini-Huntley Robotics Research Laboratory of the Minnesota Robotics Institute, the Minnesota Nano Center, the Characterization Facility, the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, Institute on the Environment, and the Minnesota Supercomputing  Institute. More information about the department is available at https://cse.umn.edu/aem.

How To Apply  

Applications must be submitted through Interfolio: https://apply.interfolio.com/175452 

Applications must include: 1) cover letter with indication of preferred start date, 2) detailed CV/resume including a list of  publications, 3) names and contact information of three professional references, 4) a research statement, 5) a teaching statement, and 6) a service & values statement.

• Research Statement (maximum length = 5 pages) - Describe your proposed plans as an independent researcher. This statement should clearly identify the significance of the research, background supporting the premise for success, your short-term research goals, and the long-term vision for the research program you would develop at the University of Minnesota. This statement could also identify anticipated opportunities for collaboration, use of existing shared facilities or resources at UMN, or specialized capabilities you seek to develop.
• Teaching Statement (maximum length = 2 pages) - Describe how you anticipate contributing to AEM's teaching mission. This statement should include a discussion of your teaching philosophy and the pedagogical strategies you anticipate implementing. Teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels should be considered.
• Service & Values Statement (maximum length = 2 pages) - Describe how you would advance the University of Minnesota's mission. Candidates should express awareness and recognition of all aspects (research, teaching, and outreach) of education at a public institution such as the University of Minnesota. Examples may include plans for outreach and engagement, mentoring strategies, and your own experiences.

Application Deadline: Screening of applications for Fall 2026 entry will begin December 1, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Recruitment for future start dates will be ongoing and applications are welcome at any time.  

Inquiries: Faculty Search Committee, Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics, University of Minnesota, 110 Union St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, aemfacaffairs@umn.edu.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647). 

Pay and Benefits:  

Pay Range (depending on education/qualifications/experience)

Assistant Professor: $100,000 - $120,000

Associate Professor: $120,000 - $160,000

Full Professor: $145,000 - $230,000

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work. The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off 
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans 
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts 
• University HSA contributions 
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance 
• Employee wellbeing program 
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution 
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity 
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources at https://hr.umn.edu for more information.