Assistant Professor of Psychology & Child Development - Cognitive Neuroscience (27/28)

Cal Poly • San Luis Obispo, CA

10d • $90,276 - $113,045 • Onsite

About The Position

The Psychology & Child Development Department is seeking candidates for an Assistant Professor position in Cognitive Neuroscience. This role is at a primarily undergraduate institution and requires a PhD in cognitive neuroscience or a related field. The specialization is open but should include strong experience with neuroscientific methods. The candidate must demonstrate a commitment to teaching excellence and professional activity. The position involves teaching undergraduate courses such as Biopsychology, Cognition, Memory, Cognitive Neuroscience, and Research Methods, with the possibility of proposing new courses in the candidate's area of specialization. While Cal Poly is a teaching university, faculty are expected to balance teaching with research, student supervision, and service activities. The typical teaching load is 12 units per semester, with a reduction in the first two years to support research establishment. There is a potential for a transition to year-round operations (YRO) with three semesters offered annually.

Requirements

• An earned doctorate (Ph.D.) in cognitive neuroscience or a related field by the time of appointment (approximately August 12, 2027).
• Candidates nearing completion of the doctorate (ABD) may be considered but must provide proof that the doctorate will be awarded prior to the start of the appointment.
• Evidence of scholarly achievement in candidate’s area of specialization.
• Experience with neuroscientific methods that can be done at Cal Poly and a research plan that includes those methods.
• A commitment to broadening the scope of psychology to include traditionally underrepresented groups, as demonstrated through research, service, mentorship, and/or course content.
• Demonstrated university teaching experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency in written and oral use of the English language.

Nice To Haves

• Specialization in research areas such as: language, decision-making, computational/quantitative neuroscience, developmental cognitive neuroscience, collective memory and racial trauma, and social cognitive neuroscience.
• Demonstrated experience and commitment to student-centered learning and teaching.
• Demonstrated ability to collaboratively work in multidisciplinary settings.
• Demonstrated experience working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment.
• Relevant work experience.
• Professional capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research at a primarily undergraduate institution.
• Teach undergraduate-level courses such as Biopsychology, Cognition, Memory, Cognitive Neuroscience, Behavioral Effects of Psychoactive Drugs, Memory, Sensation and Perception, and/or Research Methods.
• Propose new courses within the candidate’s area of specialization.
• Balance teaching with an active program of research/professional development (including publication).
• Supervise and advise students.
• Participate in service activities at the department and college/university level.
• Comply with CSU Executive Order 1083 regarding mandated reporter status.
• Reside in the state of California at the time of hire and for the entirety of the appointment.

Benefits

• Reduction in course load in each of the first two years to help new faculty establish an active program of research and professional development.
• Eligibility to teach in the third semester for additional compensation, subject to departmental needs and University policy (under potential YRO).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree