Assistant Professor of Materials Engineering

Iowa State University

Appointment Type: Faculty
Time Type: Full-time, 9-month work period
Start Date: August 16, 2026
End Date/Length of Term: May 15, 2027

Job Description

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering in the College of Engineering at Iowa State University invites applications for an Assistant Teaching Professor position in Materials Science and Engineering. This is a one-year, full-time, non-tenure eligible term appointment. Renewal may be possible based on performance and funding availability.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Undergraduate instruction in foundational Materials Science and Engineering courses
  • Teach lower-level undergraduate courses such as Materials Engineering 2730, introductory materials science, and other core curriculum courses supporting the undergraduate program
  • Participate in course coordination and development of instructional materials
  • Mentor undergraduate students
  • Contribute to the instructional mission of the department and support continuous improvement of the undergraduate curriculum

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering is committed to a collegial, positive, and productive environment. Faculty are expected to contribute to a collaborative culture, maintain high standards of integrity and professionalism, and participate in departmental, college, and university activities.

Candidate Profile:

  • Strong commitment to high-quality undergraduate teaching
  • Effective communication skills
  • Ability to engage and mentor students from diverse academic backgrounds

Required Minimum Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in engineering or related discipline and 3 years of relevant work experience, or a doctoral degree in engineering or related discipline
  • Demonstrated experience teaching materials science or related STEM subjects

Preferred Qualifications

  • Ph.D. or equivalent in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)
  • Ability to develop and teach foundational undergraduate courses, particularly Materials Engineering 2730 and related core courses
  • Experience teaching large enrollment classes (>100 students)
  • Experience using modern course management systems such as Canvas
  • Strong commitment to undergraduate teaching and student learning
  • Excellent communication skills and instructional clarity

Department/Program & College Description

  • 18 faculty members
  • ~100 undergraduate students and ~50 graduate students
  • Sponsored research expenditures over $14M per year
  • More information: mse.iastate.edu

Application Instructions

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. To receive full consideration, applications should be received by April 6, 2026. Apply online at Iowa State Jobs, Job Requisition Number R18809.

Required Documents (PDF format):

  1. Letter of application (including information about desired rank and discussion of preferred qualifications)
  2. Curriculum Vitae
  3. Contact information for at least three references (name, mailing address, email, phone)
  4. One-page teaching statement

Contact for Questions:

Why Choose Iowa State University?

  • Comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
  • Retirement benefits (defined benefit and contribution plans)
  • Generous leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts and voluntary benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing program

Original Posting Date: March 23, 2026
Job Requisition Number: R18809

Apply