Panos Family Endowed Chair - Full Professor in Mechanical Engineering

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Description:

The Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department of the Cullen College of Engineering at the University of Houston (UH) invites applications for the Panos Family Endowed Chair position at the rank of Full Professor. The Panos Family Chair Professorship has been established from a $4.5 million gift from the Thomas Michael Panos Family Estate and a $2 million matching from the University’s $100 million Challenge Aspire Fund.

Candidates must be internationally renowned leaders in a sub-discipline of mechanical or aerospace engineering (or a related field) with demonstrated excellence in research, teaching, and service. Successful candidates must hold a doctorate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant engineering or applied science discipline and have a distinguished record of leading a vibrant, externally funded research program. This opportunity aims to attract a top-tier academic who can contribute significantly to the department’s academic and research missions.

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Houston (UH) comprises 36 full-time faculty, approximately 80 doctoral students, 200 master’s students, and over 1,000 undergraduates. As Texas’ premier Tier 1 public metropolitan research and teaching university, UH serves over 46,000 students on a park-like campus near downtown Houston, the fourth-largest city in the United States. The University offers a comprehensive range of programs across 15 colleges, advancing innovation in fields energy, health, hospitality, business, education, law, STEM, and the humanities.

With top-tier faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, strong student success initiatives, and a strong commitment to community engagement, UH prepares students to thrive in a globally interconnected world while delivering impactful research and innovation. The University is committed to advancing an ambitious Strategic Plan to become a Top 50 University, with significant initiatives in its Research Priority areas of Energy, Health, Security, and Sustainability.

Houston, the world’s energy capital, is a thriving metropolitan area that offers ample opportunities for engagement with high-tech companies, NASA Johnson Space Center, and the Houston Medical Center. The city has a vibrant cultural scene with world-class museums, theaters, and restaurants. It thrives as a hub for innovation, education, and arts, fostering a unique blend of community charm and modern progress.

Applicants should submit (1) a cover letter highlighting the candidate’s strengths and interest in the position, (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) a statement of research plan, (4) a statement on teaching philosophy, and (5) names and contact information on four references. The position is available beginning Fall 2026.

Qualifications

Candidates must hold an earned doctorate in an appropriately related field.

Required Attachments by Candidate

• Cover Letter/Letter of Application
• Teaching Philosophy or Statement
• Research Statement
• Curriculum Vitae

Official transcripts are required for a faculty appointment and will be requested upon selection of the final candidates.

All positions at the University of Houston‑System are security‑sensitive and will require a criminal history check. Individuals conducting research in critical infrastructure areas (i.e., communication infrastructure systems, cybersecurity systems, electric grid, hazardous waste treatment systems, and/or water treatment facilities) are subject to regular review to ensure the security and integrity of the research is maintained.

The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.

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