Research Assistant Jobs

Auburn University’s Department of Biosystems Engineering in the College of Agriculture seeks an Assistant Research Professor in Biocarbon and Biomaterials. This is a full-time, twelve-month, non-tenure-track research appointment, renewable annually contingent on satisfactory performance and funding. The projected start date is June 1, 2027. Full-time positions are eligible for benefits, including health insurance. The successful candidate will develop an engineering research program focused on capturing nutrients and emerging contaminants from water and soil using engineered biochar and biobased materials, and on valorizing biochar for high-value applications such as energy storage. The role includes collaborating with faculty, staff, and stakeholders; mentoring biosystems engineering graduate and undergraduate students; publishing scholarship in recognized peer-reviewed outlets; and securing extramural research funding from federal sponsors and relevant industries. Applicants must hold an earned Ph.D. from an accredited institution in biosystems, biological, agricultural, environmental, or a closely related engineering discipline by the time employment begins. Candidates should have research experience in bioprocessing, especially thermochemical conversion of biomass and biochar production from agricultural and forest materials, and documented ability to conduct research and work with faculty and students across disciplines. Desirable qualifications include a record of securing extramural funding, academic or industrial experience beyond the Ph.D. in related engineering areas, and knowledge of mathematical modeling tools such as Ansys or COMSOL for designing biomass conversion processes. Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing relevant experience, a current CV, all academic transcripts, a one- to two-page research philosophy statement, and contact information for three professional references. The CV and cover letter should be combined under “resume”; other materials should be uploaded under “additional documents.” Only complete applications will be considered. The application deadline for consideration is January 4, 2027; the position may remain open until filled. Questions may be directed to Search Committee Chair Dr. Jasmeet Lamba at [email protected]. Candidates must meet eligibility requirements to work legally in the United States when the appointment begins and throughout employment.