Assistant Professor, Aerospace Engineering, Tenure Track

Salary/Position Classification

• $85,000+, Dependent on Experience, 9- Month Contract, Exempt
• 40 hours per week
• 100% Remote Work Availability: No
• Hybrid Work Availability (requires some time on campus): No

Purpose of Position

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of North Dakota invites applications for tenure-track Assistant Professor positions in aerospace engineering.

The department will consider applicants with research expertise in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering in the following areas: (1) space robotics, (2) autonomous space systems, (3) in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM) robotics, (4) machine learning in robotics.

The appointment is expected to begin on January 1, 2026, or later. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Duties & Responsibilities

• The successful applicant must have demonstrated dedication to excellence in engineering education and the potential to develop an externally funded research program. The successful applicant will have excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills. The successful applicant will have the following primary responsibilities and duties:
  • Official duties and responsibilities of faculty members include teaching and service activities as assigned.
  • Teaching a 2/2 course load in aerospace and mechanical engineering, both on-campus and online, potentially including both classroom and laboratory settings. Initial appointment may include a reduced teaching load to initiate research activity.
  • Advising students in course planning and fulfilling graduation requirements.
  • Communicating effectively in English with students, families, faculty, staff, and other professional colleagues in person and at-a-distance (phone, email, etc.).
  • Utilizing computer hardware and software to carry out teaching, research, and service responsibilities to the mechanical engineering department.
  • Operating laboratory equipment and instrumentation found in mechanical and aerospace engineering laboratories.
  • Participating in department, college/university, and professional service activities.
  • Conducting engineering scholarly activities including grant preparation and submission, mentoring of graduate student researchers, publication of results, and development of an externally funded research program.
  • Engaging in research contributing to UND Grand Challenges, such as (1) National Security & Space, (2) Autonomous Systems, and/or (3) Computational & Data Science.

Required Competencies

• Established capability of conducting and publishing scientific studies.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including evidence of the ability to teach,
• inspire, and mentor students.
• Effective interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, and students.
• Ability to adapt to current methods of teaching, including online delivery.
• Commitment to providing quality teaching in both on-campus and online settings.
• Experience or demonstrated ability working with diverse groups.

Minimum Requirements

• PhD degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline, with expertise in robotics.
• Teaching experience in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching both undergraduate-level or graduate-level courses in aerospace or mechanical engineering.
• Proven or clear capability to teach undergraduate labs for aerospace or mechanical engineering.
• Established capability to conduct research and publish scientific studies.
• Experience in successfully securing external research funding.
• Industry, government, or research experience in aerospace or mechanical engineering.

To Apply

To assure full consideration, applications must be received by December 1, 2025 and include the following materials:

• Cover letter
• Professional vita or résumé
• Statement of teaching and research interests
• Names and contact information of at least three (3) references
• Unofficial transcripts. Please note that the selected candidate will be required to submit official transcripts upon hire.

Questions may be directed to the Department Chair, Dr. Clement Tang at

Position is open until filled.

---