Graduate Research Associate Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Overview
Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Thermal-Fluid Sciences
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Auburn University invites applications for a full-time tenure-track faculty position to begin in August 2027. Applicants must have research expertise in the Thermal-Fluid Sciences, desirable research areas: electronic thermal management, bioheat transfer engineering, propulsion and hypersonic applications, thermal management in nuclear power generation, new metrologies, and artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning methodologies in thermal sciences. Industry experience is encouraged but not required.
About the Mechanical Engineering Department
The ME Department currently has 51 faculty members and supports strong graduate and undergraduate programs in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Engineering. Enrollments during the Fall 2025 semester include 900 undergraduate students in major and 200 graduate students. Current departmental areas of research strength include electronics cooling and thermal management, advanced powertrains, building thermal energy systems, additive manufacturing, unmanned and robotic systems, biomechanics, electronic packaging and reliability, solid mechanics, advanced materials, and tribology. The Auburn University Samuel Ginn College of Engineering offers a range of distinctive resources designed to support faculty achievement. These include: (1) robust partnerships with the defense industry in Huntsville, AL and across the Southeast; (2) engagement with local automotive and aerospace companies specializing in advanced manufacturing; (3) access to a class 10 clean room for electronics manufacturing and packaging; (4) an internationally recognized center for metal additive manufacturing; (5) an autonomous vehicle research facility and automotive test track; (6) an MRI center; and
(7) collaborative opportunities with faculty in veterinary medicine and a newly established medical school. Further details are available at the ME Department website: http://www.eng.auburn.edu/mech/.
ABOUT AUBURN UNIVERSITY:
Auburn University was chartered in 1856 and was designated a land-grant institution in 1872. The Fall 2025 university enrollment is over 35,000 students. Auburn is located 100 miles southwest of Atlanta, and has an excellent public school system, and has been consistently ranked as one of the "best small towns in America."
Responsibilities
The individual selected for this position will be expected to contribute to the department's growth by developing a strong, externally funded research program, collaborating on interdisciplinary research projects, publishing research results in appropriate scholarly outlets, directing graduate students, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, and being involved in service to the department and the profession. Excellent communication skills and a high level of personal motivation are required. Candidates will be considered at the Assistant, Associate, and Full Professor levels. Applicants at the Associate and Full Professor levels must have active nationally or internationally recognized research programs.
Qualifications
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field by the start date of employment. The candidate selected for this position must be able to meet eligibility requirements to work in the United States at the time the appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the proposed term of employment.
HOW TO APPLY:
Review of applications will begin on Aug 3, 2026, and continue until a successful candidate has been identified. Applicants should combine into one document and upload a cover letter and curriculum vitae under the "Resume Upload" section (maximum file size: 5MB). All other documents should be uploaded under "Additional Documents." This includes a (1) concise statement of research vision, (2) a concise statement of teaching philosophy, (3) transcripts (can be unofficial), and
(4) names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of three references. Submission of teaching portfolio and evaluations is optional but encouraged. (12MB maximum).
Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
NA
Contract Type
Continuing
Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence:We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We're Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama:The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!
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