Assistant/Associate Professor of Nuclear Engineering

Purdue University

Institution: Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
Department: School of Nuclear Engineering
Position Type: Tenured/Tenure-Track Faculty (Assistant or Associate Professor)
Start Date: Fall 2026 (anticipated)

Position Overview

The School of Nuclear Engineering at Purdue University seeks exceptional candidates to join its faculty in advanced reactor technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs). Other research areas may include:

  • Advanced reactors and fast reactor technologies

  • Nuclear fuel and fuel cycles

  • Advanced nuclear materials

  • Applications of artificial intelligence in nuclear engineering

The school also welcomes candidates in other nuclear-related fields. The successful candidate will develop an independent research program, teach undergraduate and graduate courses, advise students, and contribute to service at the department, college, and university levels.

Note: US citizenship is not required, but some external funding opportunities may be restricted to US persons.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering or a related discipline by the start date.

  • Demonstrated potential to establish an independent research program.

  • Evidence of teaching and mentoring potential.

Early-career applicants: Evidence of initiating independent research.
Mid-career applicants: Sustained record of research and contributions to education and/or mentoring.

Research & Facilities

Faculty will have access to state-of-the-art nuclear engineering facilities, including:

  • PUR-1 Nuclear Reactor Facility – only reactor in the U.S. licensed with 100% digital instrumentation and control, including a digital twin

  • PUMA Thermal Hydraulics Facility

  • Manufacturing and Materials Research Laboratories (MMRL)

The School has strong interdisciplinary collaborations on campus and with industry.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct original research and secure funding

  • Teach undergraduate and graduate courses

  • Advise and mentor graduate students

  • Participate in service to the School, College, and University

Application Instructions

Submit via Purdue’s application portal, including:

  1. Cover letter

  2. Curriculum vitae

  3. Teaching plan

  4. Research plan

  5. Names and contact information for at least four references

Questions: coeacademicaffairs@purdue.edu
Review of applications: Begins November 24, 2025, and continues until filled.

Additional Notes: Background check required. Purdue offers dual career support and relocation assistance.

Equal Opportunity

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access institution committed to diversity and inclusion.

Apply