Tenure Track Assistant Professor - Plastics Engineering

University of Massachusetts•Lowell, MA

9d•$115,000 - $122,000

About The Position

The University of Massachusetts Lowell invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor faculty position in Plastics Engineering, beginning in September 2027. The position focuses on innovative, high-impact research in the advanced design and manufacturing of polymeric materials, including development and implementation of machine learning and artificial intelligence tools for product and machine design and for manufacturing process optimization and automation. The successful candidate will build a strong, externally funded research program; advise undergraduate and graduate students; teach undergraduate and graduate Plastics Engineering courses; and contribute service to the Department, University, and profession. Relevant research and development areas include AI-powered and generative design of polymeric materials, composites, products, machines, and molds; design for circularity; smart manufacturing; and advanced manufacturing processes. The successful candidate will teach polymer design and processing courses, potentially including Product and Process Mold Design, Mold Engineering, Plastics Process Engineering, and Processing Theories. The Department values interdisciplinary collaboration, academic excellence, innovation, and student success, and supports collaborative research and education with university colleagues, national laboratories, industry, and other academic institutions.

Requirements

Earned doctorate in Plastics, Polymer, Materials, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related area, by the time of appointment.
Outstanding research record in the candidate’s area(s) of expertise.
Strong communication skills.
Commitment to excellence in teaching.
Ability to work effectively with diverse groups.

Nice To Haves

A record of publications demonstrating potential for success as a researcher.
Teaching experience.
Experience as a Postdoctoral Fellow.
Industrial experience.
A record of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Responsibilities

Build a strong, externally funded research program in advanced design and manufacturing of polymeric materials.
Develop and implement machine learning and artificial intelligence tools in product and machine design and in the optimization and automation of manufacturing processes.
Advise undergraduate and graduate students.
Teach Plastics Engineering courses at undergraduate and graduate levels, including courses in polymer design and processing.
Participate in service to the Department, University, and profession.