Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering

Position Overview

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at Purdue University Northwest (PNW) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering position, beginning Fall 2026.

PNW ‘s Hammond campus is located 30 miles from Chicago with the Westville branch campus just 15 miles from the Indiana Dunes National Park. PNW is proud to be designated a Research College and University in the Carnegie Classification reflecting its growing commitment to research excellence and innovation with regional impact.

As part of a strategic, multi-year initiative, the College of Engineering and Sciences (CES) is building a research cluster in Intelligent and Autonomous Systems, connecting faculty across disciplines to industry and community partners. We seek applicants specializing in Control Systems and Automation, with additional depth in areas such as robotics, cyber-physical systems, or AI-enabled control.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a collaborative, mission-focused university with strong industry connections and sophisticated instructional and lab facilities. CES serves approximately 1,500 undergraduate and graduate students and plays a pivotal role in PNW’s nearly $17 million in annual research expenditures.

The successful candidate will join a supportive, student-centered community committed to applied learning and research and serving the economic and technological needs of Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago region.

Who We Are

CES is home to approximately six academic departments: Biological Sciences, Chemistry and Physics, Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mathematics and Statistics, and Mechanical and Civil Engineering.

Our faculty conducts impactful research across automation, robotics, intelligent systems, signal processing, cybersecurity, and wireless communication. They collaborate across disciplines and with regional industry partners to advance technological solutions that empower the modern workforce and support resilient infrastructure.

Faculty in ECE are engaged in impactful research spanning robotics, intelligent systems, signal processing, wireless communication, cybersecurity, and more. They collaborate across departments and with regional industry partners to advance technological solutions that enhance automation, energy resilience, and workforce innovation.

The ECE Department offers two ABET-accredited baccalaureate degree programs: BS in Electrical Engineering, with two concentrations in Mechatronics, and Power and Energy Systems; and BS in Computer Engineering, with two concentrations in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity Engineering. The department also offers a Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

PNW’s mission, as a student-centered regional university, is to transform lives through innovative education, impactful research, and community engagement. Our graduates pursue careers in sectors ranging from advanced manufacturing to national research labs, contributing meaningfully to communities and industries across Northwest Indiana and beyond.

What We Value

PNW’s values reflect our commitment to respect, innovation, a student-centric environment, and excellence (RISE). These values guide our vision toward an evolving and meaningful future.

• Respect
  We embody a culture of compassion, civility, integrity, and dignity in all interactions across our diverse campus community.
• Innovation
  We transform lives through forward-thinking ideas and technologies, pioneering research, and creative academic and community partnerships.
• Student-Centricity
  We place students at the heart of everything we do, meeting them where they are and uplifting them through experiential learning and holistic support inside and outside the classroom.
• Excellence
  We are relentless in pursuing excellence in education, research, institutional operations, and service, always striving for academic and operational distinction.

What We Offer

PNW is committed to supporting faculty success in instruction, research, and professional growth. The successful candidate will receive:

• Competitive Start-Up Package
  To establish and grow an independent and collaborative research program aligned with the goals of the Intelligent and Autonomous Systems cluster.
• Research Infrastructure
  Access to cutting-edge facilities and interdisciplinary research centers designed to support applied and computational research.
• Support for External Funding
  Dedicated pre- and post-award services through the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs to assist in securing grants and managing funded projects.
• Professional Development
  Opportunities for pedagogical innovation, leadership training, and research development throughout the faculty career lifecycle.
• Collaborative and Community-based Environment
  A supportive academic community that values mentorship, cross-disciplinary initiatives, and student-centered innovation.

Primary Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality instruction in undergraduate and graduate courses in Electrical and Computer Engineering, with a commitment to innovative, student-centered pedagogy.
• Mentor and advise students in academic planning, senior design, undergraduate research, and career or graduate school preparation.
• Develop new or enhance existing courses and curricula that strengthen student learning outcomes and reflect emerging trends in intelligent and autonomous systems.
• Build an impactful research program that aligns with the Intelligent and Autonomous Systems theme.
• Pursue external funding through competitive grants and partnerships with industry, government, or community stakeholders.
• Publish scholarly work in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, or other academic channels that advance the field and support PNW’s research mission.
• Engage in interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaborations that contribute to the growth of research clusters and have the potential to establish labs or research centers.
• Contribute to service, outreach, and community engagement activities, including departmental committees, K–12 STEM initiatives, and broader efforts that promote equity, innovation, and workforce development across Northwest Indiana.

Education

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or a closely related field (degree must be earned by August 3, 2026). 

Experience

• Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching and research.
• Expertise in control systems and automation, with research interests aligned with Intelligent and Autonomous Systems
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Demonstrated potential to secure external funding.
• Prior experience mentoring undergraduate or graduate students.
• Experience or interest in developing or enhancing courses or lab experiences in related areas.
• Evidence of interdisciplinary collaboration or applied research experience.

Application Materials

Applications must be submitted electronically through the PNW Careers Faculty webpage and include:

1. Cover letter highlighting interest and qualifications.
2. Curriculum vitae.
3. Research statement (maximum two pages).
4. Teaching philosophy statement (maximum two pages).
5. Unofficial transcripts (official required upon hire).
6. Contact information for three professional references.

Review of applications will begin January 5, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.

Employment is contingent upon completion of a successful background check.

Purdue University Northwest is an equal opportunity/equal access university.

FLSA Status