Assistant Professor of AI in Mechatronics and Controls

About the role

The Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) seeks a tenure-track faculty member for an Assistant Professor position in Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Mechatronics and Controls. The role is based in Worcester, Massachusetts, and may include a joint appointment (up to 25%) with the Robotics Engineering Department, as agreed by the successful candidate and the two departments.

Responsibilities

• Develop an active externally funded research program.
• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in mechanical engineering.
• Strengthen the connection with the Robotics Engineering Department.
• Apply AI techniques to mechatronics and controls, including intelligent sensing and perception, cyber‑physical systems, data‑driven modeling and control, and AI/deep learning.
• Integrate multidisciplinary methodologies to solve complex challenges.
• Pursue applications in autonomous systems and mobility, intelligent infrastructure, human‑robot interaction, smart health, advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0/5.0, mechatronics for sustainability, and other areas complementary to departmental strengths.

Requirements

• PhD or equivalent degree in mechanical engineering, robotics engineering, or another relevant discipline.
• Strong background in Mechatronics and Controls.
• Demonstrated proficiency in applying AI techniques to these application areas.

Qualifications

• Expertise in intelligent sensing and perception, cyber‑physical systems, data‑driven modeling and control, and AI/deep learning.
• Proven ability to integrate multidisciplinary methodologies.
• Experience with autonomous systems, mobility, intelligent infrastructure, human‑robot interaction, smart health, advanced manufacturing, Industry 4.0/5.0, and mechatronics for sustainability.
• Track record of securing external research funding.
• Commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Life and long‑term disability insurance
• Retirement savings plans
• Tuition assistance
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Working environment that prioritizes mental health and well‑being

Pay

$105,000 - $118,000 per year. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity.