Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field

A strong record of research accomplishments and the capability to develop an active and nationally recognized research program.

The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to undergraduate and graduate education and be qualified to teach a wide range of courses in chemical engineering.

N/A

The Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Kentucky invites applications for a tenure-eligible, 9-month appointment (Regular Title Series) faculty position in chemical engineering at the Assistant Professor level with an anticipated start date of Fall 2026, with a possible joint appointment with the Department of Computer Science. This faculty search is part of the College's strategic investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Engineering Education and Research. Significant investment in both research and instruction will be expected in the initial year of the appointment, with time allocation in future years to be adjusted as appropriate.

We seek candidates whose research applies AI and machine learning to chemical engineering, with interests including applications of AI in chemical engineering education, AI-driven molecular and process design, data-driven catalysis and reaction engineering, and AI for sustainability, energy, and materials innovation. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field, demonstrate potential for an independent, nationally recognized research program, and show a strong commitment to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education.

The Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Kentucky is a dynamic community of scholars committed to advancing research and education at the intersection of chemical sciences, materials innovation, and engineering practice. With nationally recognized research programs in energy, sustainability, advanced materials, and biotechnology, the department fosters a highly collaborative environment that spans multiple colleges and university centers, including the Membrane Science and Technology Center and the Beam Institute. Faculty members enjoy strong partnerships with industry and national laboratories, access to state-of-the-art research facilities, and a vibrant campus located in Lexington, a city renowned for its high quality of life and rich cultural opportunities. Employment at UK is subject to fund availability and comes with various rewards, focusing on your total well-being and career development, with leadership striving to provide a strong work-life integration. The university generously contributes to employees' retirement plans, medical coverage, and life insurance. In addition, UK offers optional benefits such as dental and vision insurance, additional retirement plans and much more. To learn more about these benefits, please visit: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/our-benefits.

Candidates should apply for the position at https://ukjobs.uky.edu/postings/600105; the deadline for acceptance of applications is November 15, 2025. Submit PDF files consisting of Cover Letter, research statement (3 pages), teaching statement (1 page), a complete curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information for at least three references. For more information, please contact Dr. Qing Shao, Chair of the Search Committee, at qshao@uky.edu.

Priority will be given to applicants with a record of research accomplishments in engineering education, including topics areas such as but not limited to research applies AI and machine learning to chemical engineering, with interests including applications of AI in chemical engineering education, AI-driven molecular and process design, data-driven catalysis and reaction engineering, and AI for sustainability, energy, and materials innovation.

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.