DIRECTOR OF THE NUCLEAR ENGINEERING PROGRAM & ASSOCIATE/FULL PROFESSOR - University of Florida

ASSOCIATE/FULL PROFESSOR

The Department of Materials Science & Engineering (MSE) in the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering at the University of Florida is seeking applications for a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Associate or Full Professor to serve as Director of the Nuclear Engineering Program. The position has an anticipated start date of August 2025.

We are looking for a dynamic leader in the field of Nuclear Engineering to oversee the program and ensure its continued excellence. As Director, you will be responsible for guiding the program's academic and research efforts and leading a diverse, interdisciplinary community of students, faculty, and staff. Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and executing a forward-looking vision for the growth and advancement of the program.
• Strengthening the program’s profile by fostering strategic partnerships with industry.
• Enhancing the program’s reputation through impactful collaborations, outreach, and accomplishments that promote increased recognition.
• Leading innovative, cross-disciplinary, and collaborative research initiatives.
• Implementing outreach strategies to expand collaboration opportunities and attract external stakeholders for joint research proposals and initiatives.
• Promoting an inclusive environment that supports the professional development of faculty, students, and staff.

About the Nuclear Engineering Program

As the only Nuclear Engineering program in Florida, housed within the Department of Materials Science & Engineering, we offer:

• A faculty with expertise in nuclear fuels and materials, nuclear security, plasma physics, reactor physics & thermal hydraulics, and radiochemistry.
• A vibrant community comprising 80 undergraduate and 30 graduate students, supported by 12 faculty members, including 9 tenured/tenure-track positions.
• An active research environment with annual contracts and grants totaling over $3.5 million.
• A program ranked 13th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

The Department of Materials Science & Engineering has over 30 faculty members working in nuclear engineering and materials science, with plans for future growth. The department supports approximately 480 students, including over 80 in the Ph.D. program. The University of Florida is ranked the #6 Best Public University by U.S. News & World Report.

Salary to commensurate with education and experience.

 Applicants must hold a PhD in a related field by the start date and have sufficient experience to merit appointment at the rank of Associate or Full Professor.

The successful candidate will be expected to teach both undergraduate and graduate courses in nuclear engineering, establish and maintain externally funded research programs, recruit and supervise graduate students, and engage in service activities at both the university and professional levels.  A demonstrated commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and service, along with a record of scholarly achievements, is required. The candidate should also have experience in proposal writing, PhD student mentoring, and classroom teaching.

Application Process

The search committee will begin reviewing applications immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applications must be submitted through UFCareers at: https://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/en-us/listing/ (Search Job #533189). A complete application includes: *NOTE required items 4-6 should be uploaded as one PDF to the “other documents” selection in the application.

1. A cover letter specifying your research area.
2. A curriculum vitae.
3. Names and contact information for 3-5 references.
4. *A research vision statement outlining both short- and long-term goals.
5. *A teaching statement describing teaching experience and future plans.
6. *Up to three refereed journal or conference articles authored or co-authored by the applicant.

Candidates should submit materials that align with the department's mission.

 Additional Information

Selected candidates will be required to provide official transcripts upon hire. Degrees from institutions outside the U.S. must be evaluated by a professional credentialing service approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).

If you require accommodation due to a disability, please contact UF's Human Resources at 352-392-2477 or via the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD). Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the U.S. Background checks will be conducted in accordance with Florida's Sunshine Law.

The University of Florida is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, political affiliations, genetic information, or veteran status.

For inquiries, contact Justin Watson (justin.watson@ufl.edu), Chair of the Nuclear Engineering Director Faculty Search Committee.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.