Assistant Professor

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities invites applications in three areas: (i) Computer Engineering, (ii) Artificial Intelligence, and (iii) Optics and Photonics. This tenure-track faculty position will be filled at the Assistant Professor level; salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Computer Engineering:

Expertise in chip design and verification, electronic design automation, computer architecture, and emerging computing platforms is of particular interest, including AI/ML hardware, heterogeneous integration, quantum and physics-inspired computing. Expertise in novel devices and microelectronics for quantum and physics-inspired computing will also be considered.

Collaborative research and development in chip design, verification methods, electronic design automation, and computer architecture is of particular interest. Relevant applications include, but are not limited to, AI/ML accelerator design, AI/ML for chip design and verification, domain-specific computing, heterogeneous architectures, hardware-algorithm co-design, quantum computing, and physics-inspired computing.

Artificial Intelligence:

Expertise in the algorithms, theory, and applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Collaboration in research and development in basic and applied research in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Theoretical areas of interest include, but are not limited to, optimization, neural networks, and reinforcement learning. Application areas of interest include, but are not limited to, robotics, foundation models, image / signal processing, optimization, and control.

Optics and Photonics:

Expertise in the fields of optics, photonics, nanophotonics, quantum optics, optical materials, devices, instrumentation, and systems, including, but are not limited to, integrated and nano-scale photonics, metasurfaces, and plasmonics, micro/nanofabrication techniques, biophotonics and optical biosensing, optical imaging and spectroscopy, optical measurement and sensing science and instrumentation, quantum optics, optoelectronics and silicon photonics, optical communications and interconnects, and optical computing.

Collaboration in research and development of one or more of the above listed fields of expertise is of particular interest. Candidates whose work bridges optics and photonics with emerging areas such as quantum technologies or computing, packaging, neuroengineering, biomedical diagnostics, high power devices or systems, or AI-enabled systems are particularly encouraged to apply. Demonstrated ability in micro- and/or nanofabrication is desirable; candidates are expected to make extensive use of the Minnesota Nano Center (MNC) cleanroom facilities.

Responsibilities

Research

• Engage in research, publication, and creation of scientific and engineering knowledge.
• Develop research proposals for external funding opportunities and collaborate with researchers from academia, industry, and other organizations such as government labs on joint research projects.
  

Teaching

• Develop and teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
• Advise students regarding specific coursework and broader academic or career goals. Service
• Provide service through participation in governance of the department and/or the University.
• Contribute to outreach activities that support the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering mission.
• Contribute to the development of the profession, keep current with the field, and broaden knowledge and expertise.
  

Service

• Provide service through participation in governance of the department and/or the University.
• Contribute to outreach activities that support the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering mission.
• Contribute to the development of the profession, keep current with the field, and broaden knowledge and expertise.

Successful candidates will have outstanding academic and research records and are expected to establish a vigorous, funded research program, teach at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and be involved in service to the University and the profession. An earned doctorate or equivalent foreign degree in an appropriate discipline is required at the time of appointment. It is anticipated that the appointment will begin Fall 2027. Completion of PhD required.

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is committed to fostering a community of research, teaching, and operational excellence that is culturally and academically diverse by attracting and retaining individuals with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, viewpoints, and identities. Candidates who will actively contribute to this commitment and community - both in identity and professional vision - are particularly encouraged to apply.

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is one of the largest departments within the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota. Current research areas include Biomedical and Biological Computation Methods; Devices and Systems; Communications, Signal Processing, and Networking; Computer Engineering, VLSI, and Circuits; Fields, Photonics, and Magnetics; Micro and Nano Electronics and Structures; Sustainable Energy Systems, Power Electronics and Drives; Systems and Controls. To learn more about the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Minnesota, please visit the department website.

Pay Range: $115,000-$130,000 per year; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, go to the Interfolio job site [apply.interfolio.com/194224] and follow the application instructions.

You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position. This position requires that you attach:

* A one-page cover letter;
* A current CV with complete list of publications;
* Statement of research interests;
* Statement of teaching interests;
* Three (3) professional letters for reference

Applications will be considered as they are received. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but for full consideration, please apply by the priority deadline of November 26, 2026.

The position will remain open until filled.

To request accommodation during the application process, please email employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.