Assistant/Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering (University of Alberta)

Description This position is part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA). The successful candidates will be offered a tenured or tenure-track appointment with the rank of Full-Time Assistant or Associate Professor, which is in accordance with the Academic Faculty Agreement, and offers a comprehensive benefits package. Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton. Working at the University of Alberta The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community. The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide. Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more. Working for the Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering The Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Alberta is seeking applications for up to two full-time tenure track Assistant Professor positions in mechatronics and robotics, with a particular focus on robotics, electromechanical systems, robotic systems integration, autonomous systems, smart buildings and infrastructure, advanced agricultural machinery, agricultural robotics, soft robotics, collaborative robotics, fleet robotics, mechatronic/biological systems integration, self-assembling systems, sensors and actuators, construction automation, and artificial intelligence-assisted systems. The ability to teach broadly in the undergraduate mechanical engineering program will be of paramount importance. Exceptional candidates in closely related areas or at the rank of Associate Professor may be considered. This role will be in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Applicants who value working across disciplinary boundaries, within and outside engineering, as well as with communities and industry, are strongly encouraged to apply. If you are looking to join a Faculty with a growing focus on interdisciplinary research and an emphasis on high-quality teaching, we welcome your application! The Faculty of Engineering aims to maintain its position among the top schools in North America. We will do this through innovation and excellence from faculty members and staff who value collaboration, interdisciplinary work, and an engaging and positive work culture. We are dedicated to solving the world’s greatest challenges and building a better future for society by: 1. Building the future through people in a collaborative, cross-functional environment 2. Developing minds and hands with heart by taking a holistic approach to provide an exceptional student experience through education and enrichment that strives to develop the highest-calibre engineers: Those who process both technical acumen and emotional intelligence, expanding the traditional definition of “engineering.” 3. Demonstrating the ever-expanding value of our contributions through community engagement, research impact, and value to society 4. Solving the world’s greatest challenges by uniquely positioning the engineering field to help uplift the whole of humanity Working and Living in Edmonton Benefits, Health, & Wellness We offer a health and wellness benefits package that includes a health spending account, parental leave, and pension benefits. For Faculty members, some moving and relocation expenses may be reimbursed. Spouses/partners are offered employment services through the University’s Spousal/Partner Employment Program. The campus offers a medical clinic and multiple childcare and housing options within steps of campus. Academic faculty members are offered parental and medical leave, retirement benefits, and healthcare benefits. The Faculty of Engineering values families and aims to minimize long-distance separation when possible through our spouse/partner hiring practices. *Living in Edmonton* Edmonton is home to over one million people and is Alberta’s capital. Edmonton offers a vibrant start-up and technology ecosystem, federal and provincial government offices, and the Corporate Offices of the provincial healthcare system. The city offers the amenities of a large urban centre while maintaining a friendly atmosphere. Several faculty members live in nearby neighbourhoods with a range of multi-family and single-family housing options within walking and biking distance of the University. Alberta is among Canada’s top provincial school systems, with several primary and secondary schools near campus. Edmonton is known internationally for its thriving arts and festival scene, with one of North America’s largest stretches of urban parkland, and top-ranked health care services. The Role and Responsibilities The Assistant Professor role is the starting point on the academic faculty member career pathway at the University of Alberta. Faculty members are full members of the department and play an active role in democratic processes and governance. The responsibilities of the role include active participation in teaching, research, and service: Teaching (40%): Participation in teaching programs, including classroom teaching, supervision of students conducting research, and personal interactions with and advising students. An Academic Faculty member may decide on specific course content and instructional methodology, recognizing the approved course description and academic policy approved by the Department, the Faculty, and the University. Teaching is year-round, with most courses in the Fall (September to December) and Winter (January to April) semesters. Teaching assignments are decided in discussion with the Department Chair. As the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board accredits the undergraduate degree programs, licensure as a Professional Engineer is required. Licensure must be obtained within five years of the hire date Research (40%): Participation in research, including the preparation or performance of creative works and reflective inquiry, and disseminating research results by means appropriate to the discipline. Academic Faculty members are encouraged to seek financial support for research from granting agencies or other sources Service (20%): An Academic Faculty member shall be actively engaged in service to the University and participate in the collegial responsibilities of departmental, Faculty, and University governance. Provision of service to the discipline of the Academic Faculty member; participation in the governance of the University, the Faculty, and the Department, and dissemination of knowledge to the general public by making available the Academic Faculty member’s expertise and knowledge of the discipline. The Department Chair supervises Faculty Members. Annually, Faculty Members prepare and submit a report of their university responsibilities to the Department Chair and the Dean. For information about the responsibilities, salary, benefits, leaves, and related details, see the most recent collective agreement for academic faculty members. Minimum Qualifications Ph.D. in mechanical engineering or a related field Experience in effectively communicating the results of research within and outside of the academy, including publications in reputable, peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings Ability to effectively develop, instruct, and engage learners Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to teach broadly in the undergraduate mechanical engineering program Qualifications Considered an Asset: Teaching experience and training in teaching, lesson planning, and curriculum design Teaching, research, service, and volunteer work related to the role, as well as community boards and organizations and outreach to and helping in underserved and underrepresented communities Licensure or progress towards licensure as a Professional Engineer Grant application and financial management experience and/or training Industry experience in engineering, trades, sciences, and technology industries Experience with interdisciplinary and collaborative research projects as well as with managing large, multi-year research projects Experience working with industry and community partners for research projects Team, lab, and facility management experience, including but not limited to safety, supervision, and procurement How to Apply Please ensure that your application shows clearly how your skills and experience meet the criteria above. To apply, please select the Apply Online icon below and submit the following: Cover letter Curriculum vitae including your research, teaching, and service experience related to the role and responsibilities as well as the qualifications above. Research Plan that includes: A statement that outlines research experience, the main areas of current research, and short- and long-term research goals (maximum 2 pages) A leadership philosophy outlining how you will build and retain a high-performing and diverse research team, including your plans for universal design and inclusivity for the research environment and the team, and for equitable opportunities for all members of the team to engage with the work being conducted and other opportunities that will advance their career goals (maximum 1 page) Up to 3 recent peer-reviewed research publications Statement of Teaching Interests that includes:Members of selection committees will be aware of the principles of employment equity, fair selection, and the risks of bias. If, for any reason, you have taken a career break or have had an atypical career and wish to disclose this in your application, the selection committee will take this into account, recognizing that the quantity of your research may be reduced as a result. A statement on your teaching philosophy and approach to teaching, including how you will contribute to our culture of providing exceptional educational experiences that focus on learner engagement and inclusivity, experiential and active learning, while building engineering knowledge and skills as well as emotional intelligence, social mindedness, and ethics (maximum 2 pages) Evidence and potential for teaching effectiveness, such as related training, teaching assistantships, courses instructed, recent course evaluations, and example course outlines for courses you delivered as an instructor Next Steps Applicants will be accepted until Monday, 1 September 2025 at 11:59 pm. University representatives will review application packages, and should the Hiring Committee advance your application, you will be contacted for an online pre-interview. Please note that applications with missing information or components will not be considered. For applicants selected for interviews, three letters of reference will be requested. Applicants will be expected to contact the three referees and arrange to have them submit their letters of reference via email attachment. Details will be provided to those candidates selected for interviews. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot be found, other individuals will be considered. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns. The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply. L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler. Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight September 1, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time. If you apply for this position please say you saw it on Engineeroxy

Description

This position is part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

The successful candidates will be offered a tenured or tenure-track appointment with the rank of Full-Time Assistant or Associate Professor, which is in accordance with the Academic Faculty Agreement, and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering

The Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Alberta is seeking applications for up to two full-time tenure track Assistant Professor positions in mechatronics and robotics, with a particular focus on robotics, electromechanical systems, robotic systems integration, autonomous systems, smart buildings and infrastructure, advanced agricultural machinery, agricultural robotics, soft robotics, collaborative robotics, fleet robotics, mechatronic/biological systems integration, self-assembling systems, sensors and actuators, construction automation, and artificial intelligence-assisted systems. The ability to teach broadly in the undergraduate mechanical engineering program will be of paramount importance. Exceptional candidates in closely related areas or at the rank of Associate Professor may be considered.

This role will be in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Applicants who value working across disciplinary boundaries, within and outside engineering, as well as with communities and industry, are strongly encouraged to apply. If you are looking to join a Faculty with a growing focus on interdisciplinary research and an emphasis on high-quality teaching, we welcome your application!

The Faculty of Engineering aims to maintain its position among the top schools in North America. We will do this through innovation and excellence from faculty members and staff who value collaboration, interdisciplinary work, and an engaging and positive work culture. We are dedicated to solving the world’s greatest challenges and building a better future for society by:

1. Building the future through people in a collaborative, cross-functional environment

2. Developing minds and hands with heart by taking a holistic approach to provide an exceptional student experience through education and enrichment that strives to develop the highest-calibre engineers: Those who process both technical acumen and emotional intelligence, expanding the traditional definition of “engineering.”

3. Demonstrating the ever-expanding value of our contributions through community engagement, research impact, and value to society

4. Solving the world’s greatest challenges by uniquely positioning the engineering field to help uplift the whole of humanity

Working and Living in Edmonton

Benefits, Health, & Wellness

We offer a health and wellness benefits package that includes a health spending account, parental leave, and pension benefits. For Faculty members, some moving and relocation expenses may be reimbursed. Spouses/partners are offered employment services through the University’s Spousal/Partner Employment Program. The campus offers a medical clinic and multiple childcare and housing options within steps of campus. Academic faculty members are offered parental and medical leave, retirement benefits, and healthcare benefits. The Faculty of Engineering values families and aims to minimize long-distance separation when possible through our spouse/partner hiring practices.

Living in Edmonton

Edmonton is home to over one million people and is Alberta’s capital. Edmonton offers a vibrant start-up and technology ecosystem, federal and provincial government offices, and the Corporate Offices of the provincial healthcare system. The city offers the amenities of a large urban centre while maintaining a friendly atmosphere. Several faculty members live in nearby neighbourhoods with a range of multi-family and single-family housing options within walking and biking distance of the University. Alberta is among Canada’s top provincial school systems, with several primary and secondary schools near campus. Edmonton is known internationally for its thriving arts and festival scene, with one of North America’s largest stretches of urban parkland, and top-ranked health care services.

The Role and Responsibilities

The Assistant Professor role is the starting point on the academic faculty member career pathway at the University of Alberta. Faculty members are full members of the department and play an active role in democratic processes and governance. The responsibilities of the role include active participation in teaching, research, and service:

Teaching (40%): Participation in teaching programs, including classroom teaching, supervision of students conducting research, and personal interactions with and advising students. An Academic Faculty member may decide on specific course content and instructional methodology, recognizing the approved course description and academic policy approved by the Department, the Faculty, and the University. Teaching is year-round, with most courses in the Fall (September to December) and Winter (January to April) semesters. Teaching assignments are decided in discussion with the Department Chair. As the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board accredits the undergraduate degree programs, licensure as a Professional Engineer is required. Licensure must be obtained within five years of the hire date
Research (40%): Participation in research, including the preparation or performance of creative works and reflective inquiry, and disseminating research results by means appropriate to the discipline. Academic Faculty members are encouraged to seek financial support for research from granting agencies or other sources
Service (20%): An Academic Faculty member shall be actively engaged in service to the University and participate in the collegial responsibilities of departmental, Faculty, and University governance. Provision of service to the discipline of the Academic Faculty member; participation in the governance of the University, the Faculty, and the Department, and dissemination of knowledge to the general public by making available the Academic Faculty member’s expertise and knowledge of the discipline.

The Department Chair supervises Faculty Members. Annually, Faculty Members prepare and submit a report of their university responsibilities to the Department Chair and the Dean. For information about the responsibilities, salary, benefits, leaves, and related details, see the most recent collective agreement for academic faculty members.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in mechanical engineering or a related field
Experience in effectively communicating the results of research within and outside of the academy, including publications in reputable, peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings
Ability to effectively develop, instruct, and engage learners
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to teach broadly in the undergraduate mechanical engineering program

Qualifications Considered an Asset:

Teaching experience and training in teaching, lesson planning, and curriculum design
Teaching, research, service, and volunteer work related to the role, as well as community boards and organizations and outreach to and helping in underserved and underrepresented communities
Licensure or progress towards licensure as a Professional Engineer
Grant application and financial management experience and/or training
Industry experience in engineering, trades, sciences, and technology industries
Experience with interdisciplinary and collaborative research projects as well as with managing large, multi-year research projects
Experience working with industry and community partners for research projects
Team, lab, and facility management experience, including but not limited to safety, supervision, and procurement

How to Apply

Please ensure that your application shows clearly how your skills and experience meet the criteria above. To apply, please select the Apply Online icon below and submit the following:

Cover letter
Curriculum vitae including your research, teaching, and service experience related to the role and responsibilities as well as the qualifications above.
Research Plan that includes:
1. A statement that outlines research experience, the main areas of current research, and short- and long-term research goals (maximum 2 pages)
2. A leadership philosophy outlining how you will build and retain a high-performing and diverse research team, including your plans for universal design and inclusivity for the research environment and the team, and for equitable opportunities for all members of the team to engage with the work being conducted and other opportunities that will advance their career goals (maximum 1 page)
3. Up to 3 recent peer-reviewed research publications
Statement of Teaching Interests that includes:Members of selection committees will be aware of the principles of employment equity, fair selection, and the risks of bias. If, for any reason, you have taken a career break or have had an atypical career and wish to disclose this in your application, the selection committee will take this into account, recognizing that the quantity of your research may be reduced as a result.
1. A statement on your teaching philosophy and approach to teaching, including how you will contribute to our culture of providing exceptional educational experiences that focus on learner engagement and inclusivity, experiential and active learning, while building engineering knowledge and skills as well as emotional intelligence, social mindedness, and ethics (maximum 2 pages)
2. Evidence and potential for teaching effectiveness, such as related training, teaching assistantships, courses instructed, recent course evaluations, and example course outlines for courses you delivered as an instructor

Next Steps

Applicants will be accepted until Monday, 1 September 2025 at 11:59 pm. University representatives will review application packages, and should the Hiring Committee advance your application, you will be contacted for an online pre-interview.
Please note that applications with missing information or components will not be considered.
For applicants selected for interviews, three letters of reference will be requested. Applicants will be expected to contact the three referees and arrange to have them submit their letters of reference via email attachment. Details will be provided to those candidates selected for interviews.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot be found, other individuals will be considered.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.

Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight September 1, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time.

If you apply for this position please say you saw it on Engineeroxy

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