Job Summary
Assistant Research Professor Position - Physical AI for Autonomous Aviation
SCHOOL OF AERONAUTICS AND ASTRONAUTICS and DISCOVERY PARK CENTER AIDA3
The School of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AAE) and the Purdue Center on AI for Digital, Autonomous, and Augmented Aviation (AIDA3) invite applications for a research faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor from candidates whose expertise aligns with the AIDA3’s research pillars focused on safe and trustworthy AI/ML for (a) human-autonomy teaming, (b) autonomous navigation & control, (c) supply-chain optimization, (d) remote sensing, (e) cybersecurity in autonomous aviation. These pillars align with AAE’s research themes of (i) safe, sustainable air transportation; (ii) access to, working in, and exploring space; (iii) maintaining national defense and security; and (iv) enabling new opportunities through aerospace. This search seeks candidates who will make advances and fundamental contributions to AIDA3’s pillars (a) and (b) and to AAE’s themes (i), (iii), and (iv).
Education
Successful candidates must hold a Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline by the employment start date and demonstrate potential to build an independent research program with externally funded research to complement initial AIDA3 support. The research faculty member will develop relationships with research sponsors and AIDA3 consortium members; additionally, they will lead or assist in the continuing development of Purdue resources that support uncrewed aviation research.
The Department and College
Purdue AAE is recognized consistently as an international leader for the quality of our educational programs, the innovation and depth of our graduate research program, and the impact we have on technology and workforce in the aerospace industry. AAE is the largest US aerospace engineering program by the number of degrees granted; our enrollment includes over 1200 undergraduate students and over 600 graduate students. We are the 3rd-ranked undergraduate and 2nd-ranked graduate aerospace engineering program in the US. Additional information is at https://engineering.purdue.edu/AAE.
Purdue Engineering is one of the largest and top-ranked engineering colleges in the nation and is renowned for top-notch faculty, students, unique research facilities, and a culture of collegiality and persistent pursuit of pre-eminence. According to the latest US News and World Report’s disciplinary graduate program rankings, Purdue Engineering has 3 disciplines ranked in the top 5 in the country and 10 in the top 10. Purdue Engineering as a whole is ranked 3rd for online graduate engineering programs, 6th for graduate programs. For three years running, Purdue is ranked by the USPTO as the No.2 University campus in the US in terms of annual number of US patents issued, and nearly 70% of those patents come from Purdue Engineering. The College Vision for 2030 is guiding strategic growth in new directions, by investing in people, exciting initiatives, and facilities.
Application Process
To apply, please submit an application to this site including: (1) a cover letter, (2) a complete curriculum vitae, (3) a research plan, and (4) names and contact information for at least three references. The search committee may contact references to request letters. For information/questions regarding applications contact the Office of Academic Affairs, at coeacademicaffairs@purdue.edu.
Review of applications will begin on March 27, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. A background check is required for employment in this position.
Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.