Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics - Department Head

Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics - Department Head - 527593

Job no: 527593

Work type: Regular Full-time (Benefits eligible)

Location: Tuscaloosa

Categories: Tenure/Tenure-Track Faculty

Department: Aerospace and Engineering Mechanics

Rank: Professor

The Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics (AEM) and the College of Engineering at The University of Alabama invite applications for the position of Department Head of the UA Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics. The anticipated start date for the position is Fall 2026 or earlier as appropriate. This opportunity presents the chance for a dynamic and visionary leader who has a demonstrated record of success as an outstanding scholar, researcher, teacher, and mentor to join our UA College of Engineering and our AEM Department during a period of record growth and success.

• Ph.D. in aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, astronautical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• 10+ years of experience as a tenure-track/tenured faculty member in an aerospace engineering or closely related department.
• A record consistent with appointment as a Full Professor in the UA Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics.
• Significant record of scholarship in an engineering department with undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

• Have 15+ years of experience as a tenure-track/tenured faculty member in an aerospace engineering or closely related department at a leading peer R1 university.
• Have a demonstrated record of high-quality research and scholarly publications that is recognized nationally and/or internationally.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Academic leadership experience as an associate department head/chair, department head/chair, center director, or similar level of responsibility.

Required application documents include a: (1) cover letter that includes both the department name and the title of the position for which the candidate is applying, (2) a 2 to 5 page statement describing how the candidate’s experience positions them well to serve as the Department Head for Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics at The University of Alabama, (3) a resume/curriculum vitae, (4) a statement of research interests and plans, (5) a one to two page statement of teaching interests, and (6) the names and contact information for at least four professional references (references will not be contacted without prior notification and approval by the candidate).

Applications are preferred on or before October 20, 2025 to receive fullest consideration, but the search will continue until the positions are filled. A position start date of August 16, 2026 would be typical, but flexibility with respect to start date is possible.

Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre‑employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants to and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases.

Follow the link below to find out more. EEO is the Law https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./overview

Applications close: 31 Mar 2026 Central Daylight Time

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