Visiting Assistant Professor of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering

Clarkson University•Potsdam, NY

5d•$80,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor with an interest and background in Fluid Mechanics, Gas Dynamics, and Thermal Sciences. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty in the department to offer courses in related fields. The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in gas dynamics, advanced fluid dynamics, and related thermal-fluid science subjects, and will contribute to the continued development of the department’s curriculum in these areas. In addition to teaching responsibilities, the Visiting Assistant Professor will be an active member of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, participating in department activities including student advising, research, seminars, and service. Candidates with a strong commitment to teaching excellence are encouraged to apply, including recent PhD graduates and experienced practitioners with backgrounds in mechanical or aerospace engineering or closely related fields.

Requirements

PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field by the start date.
Experience teaching or assisting with instruction in fluid mechanics, gas dynamics, or related thermal-fluid science courses at the university level.
Strong theoretical foundation in gas dynamics, fluid mechanics, and thermal sciences, or related areas of mechanical and aerospace engineering.
Demonstrated teaching effectiveness, or strong potential for excellence, in delivering clear, well-organized instruction at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Ability to develop and teach courses in compressible flow, advanced fluid dynamics, and related thermal-fluid subjects.
Proficiency with computational and analytical tools used in fluids instruction and research, such as MATLAB, Python, or CFD software.
Strong communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly to diverse student audiences.
Capacity for independent work, including course preparation, curriculum development, and management of instructional responsibilities with minimal supervision.
Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students across the department and university.
Mentorship and advising ability, particularly in guiding undergraduate students in academic planning, research, and professional development.
Organizational skills, including maintaining clear course records, meeting deadlines, and coordinating laboratory and course logistics.
Commitment to student success, with a demonstrated interest in effective pedagogy and inclusive teaching practices.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience teaching undergraduate or graduate courses in fluid mechanics, gas dynamics, or thermal sciences, and a record of scholarly activity in a related field.
Experience in course development, laboratory instruction, and the use of computational tools such as MATLAB, Python, or CFD software.

Responsibilities

Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in gas dynamics, advanced fluid dynamics, and related thermal-fluid science subjects, as assigned by the department.
Prepare and deliver lectures, and develop syllabi, assignments, laboratory exercises, and assessments aligned with course learning objectives and accreditation requirements.
Hold regular office hours and provide timely, constructive feedback and grades to students.
Employ effective, evidence-based teaching practices and modern instructional tools to support student learning.
Coordinate laboratory and recitation sections and supervise teaching assistants associated with assigned courses.
Assess student learning outcomes and contribute to continuous course and curriculum improvement.
Advise undergraduate students on academic planning, course selection, and progress toward degree requirements.
Mentor students on career preparation, graduate study opportunities, and professional development.
Support student design teams, capstone projects, and independent studies in the thermal-fluid sciences as appropriate.
Refer students to appropriate campus resources and support services to promote student success and retention.
Participate in departmental research activities and collaborate with faculty on projects in fluid mechanics, gas dynamics, and thermal sciences.
Involve undergraduate and graduate students in research and provide guidance on research methods and best practices.
Disseminate scholarly work through publications, conference presentations, or seminars as opportunities arise.
Participate in department activities, including faculty meetings, seminars, and committee service as assigned.
Contribute to curriculum development, assessment of student learning outcomes, and ABET accreditation efforts.
Support departmental outreach, recruitment, and retention initiatives, including open houses and orientation events.
Collaborate with faculty and staff across the department and university to support the academic mission.
Maintain high standards of academic integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality in all teaching, advising, and research activities.
Comply with university and department policies, including timely submission of grades, syllabi, and assessment materials.
Participate in conferences, workshops, or professional meetings relevant to teaching and the thermal-fluid sciences as needed.
Engage in continuous professional development in pedagogy and in gas dynamics, fluid dynamics, and related technical fields.
Assist with other teaching-related tasks, departmental initiatives, and academic activities as assigned.