Assistant Professor - Data Science in Computer Science and Software Engineering (AY 26/27)

About the role

The Computer Science and Software Engineering Department in the College of Engineering at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California (Cal Poly) is seeking a full-time, academic year, tenure-track faculty position in Data Science at the Assistant Professor rank beginning Fall 2026.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and master's level courses in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Databases, Data Visualization, Data Ethics, Data Engineering, Data Mining, and Big Data.
• Develop and maintain an externally funded, applied research program involving undergraduate and graduate students and partnerships with key stakeholders.
• Collaborate in multidisciplinary settings to foster a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Engage in scholarly work that is of very high quality as evidenced by external peer review.
• Perform service activities at all levels of the University.

Requirements

• An earned doctorate (Ph.D.) in Data Science, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution or international equivalent is required for appointment.
• Candidates nearing completion of the doctorate (ABD) will be considered but must provide proof that the doctorate was awarded prior to or by the start of the appointment.
• The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching, effective communication, and interpersonal skills and must have the ability to work effectively with students, staff, and faculty.
• Demonstrated experience and commitment to hands-on, student-centered learning and teaching, as well as demonstrated ability to collaboratively work in multidisciplinary settings are required.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and strong interests in undergraduate and graduate teaching are required.
• Demonstrated proficiency in written and oral use of the English language is required.

Qualifications

• Preference will be given to candidates with a demonstrated excellence in university-level teaching and research (commensurate with time since degree).
• Experience with laboratory-based instruction and/or industry experience is preferred.
• Experience working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment is preferred.
• Experience teaching in areas of need, including data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, databases, data visualization, data ethics, data engineering, data mining, and big data is preferred.

Skills

• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to develop an externally funded, applied research program.
• Experience with laboratory-based instruction and/or industry experience.
• Experience working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment.
• Experience teaching in areas of need, including data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, databases, data visualization, data ethics, data engineering, data mining, and big data.

Benefits

• Salary will be commensurate with education and experience of the individual selected.
• Qualified candidates with industry experience are encouraged to apply.

Pay

• Anticipated hiring range: $110,000 - $123,000 per year.

Schedule

• The successful candidate will be expected to teach undergraduate and master's level courses and support and expand curricular development in computer science and/or software engineering.

Contact Information

To apply, applicants should complete a required online faculty application and attach the following supplemental documents: (1) cover letter providing details of the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position; (2) current CV; (3) statement of goals and plans for research; (4) copy of unofficial transcripts; and (5) Universal Student Success Statement (see prompt below).

Prompt: Cal Poly is a public, student-centered university that serves the diverse constituents of the state of California and has a strong emphasis on the teacher-scholar model. Please detail your approach to teaching and learning at the collegiate level, including evidence of experience with inclusive, accessible, and intentional teaching, to a wide variety of students and a description of how you will continue to develop this expertise at Cal Poly.