At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct original research, teach courses, and mentor students in Automotive Engineering.
- Company: Purdue University, a top-ranked institution with a vibrant engineering community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dual career assistance, and relocation services.
- Other info: Access to cutting-edge labs and collaboration with industry leaders.
- Why this job: Join a leading programme at the heart of Indiana's automotive ecosystem.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or related field; research and teaching experience required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Job Summary
Purdue University’s School of Mechanical Engineering invites applications for a tenured/tenure track Assistant/Associate Professor position in the broad area of Automotive Engineering and Transportation. Successful candidates must hold a Ph.D. degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline by the start of the employment. Early-career applicants should show evidence of initiating independent research, while mid-career applicants should demonstrate a sustained record of independent research within academic or industrial organizations, and contributions to education and/or mentoring. The successful candidate will conduct original research, advise graduate students, teach undergraduate and graduate level courses, and perform service at the School, College, and University levels. The location of this position, including teaching responsibilities, is in Indianapolis.
School and College
The School of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University is ranked 8th nationally for undergraduate programs, 8th for graduate programs, and 1st for online graduate programs by U.S. News and World Report. The School of ME is the largest ME program in the nation, with approximately 3400 undergraduate students, 1250 graduate students, 125 faculty, and 70 staff. The position is based at Purdue University in Indianapolis, the flagship campus’ urban extension launched in 2024, which places School of ME faculty at the center of Indiana’s automotive and motorsports ecosystem. Purdue’s Motorsports Engineering program, the only ABET-accredited program of its kind in the nation, is housed in the Dallara IndyCar Factory in Speedway, less than a mile from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, providing classroom, hands-on, and diagnostic testing space alongside the chassis supplier for the IndyCar Series. Central Indiana is home to IndyCar, IMSA, and NHRA, and to major propulsion and vehicle manufacturers, including Rolls-Royce (with which Purdue holds a 10-year, $75 million strategic alliance), Allison Transmission, and Cummins, with Stellantis, Subaru, Toyota, Honda, and GM vehicle and battery plants across the state. Faculty in Indianapolis also have full access to the School’s research infrastructure in West Lafayette, about an hour away, including Ray W. Herrick Labs, Maurice Zucrow Labs, and Maha Fluid Power Labs.
The School of ME is an integral part of Purdue’s College of Engineering. Purdue Engineering is renowned for top-notch faculty and students, unique research facilities and innovations, and a culture of collegiality and persistent pursuit of preeminence. As one of the top ranked and largest engineering colleges in the nation, we are the first among U.S. engineering colleges in annual graduates and market demand, and have 9 degree programs ranked in the top 10 nationally. Purdue Engineering continues to remain a top-ranked college for patents and translation of our research activities to practice in the state, nation, and world. More than 70 Purdue Engineering faculty and alumni are National Academy of Engineering members, and we look to continue bringing outstanding faculty to campus, remaining the leader in affordable excellence at scale by guiding strategic growth through investment in people, exciting initiatives, and facilities.
Application Process
To apply, please submit applications to this site including (1) a cover letter, (2) a complete curriculum vitae, (3) a 2-page teaching plan, (4) a 3-page research plan, and (5) names and contact information for at least 5 references. The search committee may contact references to request letters. For information/questions regarding applications, contact Engineering Academic Affairs, Purdue Engineering. Review of applications will begin on October 25th, 2026. Applications received by December 25th, 2026 will be given full consideration. A background check is required for employment in this position.
Purdue and the College of Engineering have a Concierge Program that provides dual career assistance and relocation services.
Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.
Assistant/Associate Professor in Automotive Engineering & Transportation - Tenured/Tenure Track in Norfolk employer: Purdue University
Purdue University offers an exceptional work environment for faculty in the field of Automotive Engineering & Transportation, particularly at its Indianapolis campus, which is strategically located within Indiana's vibrant automotive and motorsports ecosystem. The university fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth through access to cutting-edge research facilities and partnerships with leading industry players. Faculty members benefit from a supportive community that values mentorship, teaching excellence, and impactful research, making it an ideal place for those seeking a meaningful academic career.
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Some tips for your application 🫡
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Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Purdue University specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Purdue University
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Purdue University, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Purdue University want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
