Job Details

Open Rank Professor - Hypersonics

Position Number: 6672210
Location: Lubbock, TX
Position Type: Engineering - Aerospace

Open Rank Professor - Hypersonics

42598BR
Position DescriptionThe Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Edward J. Whitacre College of Engineering at Texas Tech University invites applications for two full-time, 9-month, tenure-track Open Rank Professorsin Hypersonics beginning in the Fall of 2026. The areas of interest are emerging areas of mechanical and aerospace engineering research, with a preference for applicants working in hypersonic propulsion, high-speed flows, general aerospace engineering, robotics, and systems engineering. This search is for all ranks of faculty, i.e., Assistant Professor/Associate Professor/Full Professor.

Position Description
The Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Edward J. Whitacre College of Engineering at Texas Tech University invites applications for two full-time, 9-month, tenure-track Open Rank Professors in Hypersonics beginning in the Fall of 2026. The areas of interest are emerging areas of mechanical and aerospace engineering research, with a preference for applicants working in hypersonic propulsion, high-speed flows, general aerospace engineering, robotics, and systems engineering. This search is for all ranks of faculty, i.e., Assistant Professor/Associate Professor/Full Professor.

Major/Essential Functions
In line with TTU's strategic priorities to engage and empower a diverse student body, enable innovative research and creative activities, and transform lives and communities through outreach and engaged scholarship, applicants should have experience working with a breadth of student populations at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels within individual or across the areas of teaching, research/creative activity, and service.

Successful candidates will be expected to develop an externally funded, independent research program and collaborate with TTU faculty across various academic units. Professional service as well as service to the department, college, and university is expected.

Required Qualifications
An earned Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering or a closely related discipline by the date of appointment

This position is designated as involving access to critical infrastructure systems and/or research, as defined by Texas Executive Order GA-48. As such, candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background check prior to employment. Employees are required to comply with all applicable state and federal regulations related to the protection of critical infrastructure. Ongoing employment is dependent upon maintaining eligibility for access and successfully passing periodic security and compliance reviews.

Preferred Qualifications
Candidates who have very strong records of scholarship supported by extramural funding, and who have the proven capacity or clear potential to bring externally sponsored research to TTU are encouraged to apply. Teaching courses at both graduate and undergraduate levels is essential. Experience working with diverse student populations and first-generation students is highly desirable.

In addition to the required qualifications, individuals with the following preferred qualifications are strongly encouraged to apply:

Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed research.
Research expertise in hypersonic/high-speed flows, aerospace engineering, robotics, systems engineering, or novel emerging areas.
Experience in teaching both undergraduate and graduate courses.
Experience in service or outreach activities.

Special Instructions to Applicant
Please include the following documents in your application:

Detailed Curriculum Vitae
Cover Letter
Statement of Research Interests
Statement of Teaching Interests
List of references

Questions about this position should be directed to Dr. Gordon Christopher, Search Committee Chair.

To apply, visit workattexastech.com

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.