Endowed Dietz Chair in Chemical Engineering

Ohio State University’s William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering seeks an established scholar for the endowed Dietz Chair, a tenured Professor appointment in materials and/or energy—including catalysis, reaction engineering, batteries, and/or membranes—with an emphasis on experimental research. The research area should complement the department’s existing portfolio. The position may begin as early as January 2028. Limited immigration/visa sponsorship may be available; however, the university will not sponsor individuals subject to the J-1 two-year home residency requirement or those requiring consular processing.

About the Role

This is a tenured endowed chair position at the rank of Professor. The successful candidate will advance the department’s mission through teaching, research, service, and outreach.

Responsibilities

• Educate undergraduate and graduate students in chemical and biomolecular engineering.
• Foster interdisciplinary collaboration and exchange of ideas.
• Conduct novel, sustained research to advance knowledge in chemical engineering and related fields.
• Serve the public, academic, and industrial communities through consultation, collaboration, dissemination of research, entrepreneurship, or participation in professional societies.
• Value and integrate diverse perspectives in all aspects of the role.

Requirements

• Doctorate or equivalent in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Demonstrated accomplishments and recognition in one or more of the following areas: catalysis, reaction engineering, batteries, membranes, or separations.
• Publications of substantial interest and value in chemical engineering, including presentations to professional societies and contributions to new designs or techniques.
• Experience writing research proposals and securing independent external funding.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership in academic, research, or professional settings.
• Experience mentoring and supervising students or junior researchers.
• Teaching experience at the graduate and/or undergraduate level (for current academics).
• Efforts in research, outreach, or engagement reflecting Ohio State’s Shared Values.

Department and University Information

The William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (CBE) comprises 30 faculty members working in bioengineering, reaction engineering, catalysis, separations, systems engineering, particulates, molecular simulation, polymers, nanomaterials, and sustainability. The department is housed in a 225,000 ft² state-of-the-art facility and offers undergraduate (B.S.) and graduate (M.S. and Ph.D.) programs with a total enrollment of approximately 900 students.

The College of Engineering provides faculty development resources, including mentoring programs, research support, and work-life balance initiatives. Ohio State is a top-20 public university with a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, tuition assistance, and retirement options.

Located in Columbus, Ohio, the university is part of a vibrant metropolitan area with a population of over 1.5 million, offering affordable housing, cultural and recreational opportunities, and a strong economy.

Application Materials

Required documents (to be submitted as part of the application):

• Cover Letter (1-2 pages): Summary of academic background and interest in the position.
• Curriculum Vitae/Resume: Detailed overview of scholarly experience, including research, teaching, mentoring, service, funding, and publications.
• Teaching Statement (1-2 pages): Personal vision for teaching and learning, description of teaching strategies, and justification for evidence-based practices.
• Research Statement (1-2 pages): Research questions, importance, plan, future directions, potential collaborations, funding sources, broader impacts, and student engagement.
• Mentoring Statement (1-2 pages): Mentoring philosophy, previous mentoring experience, and fundamental mentoring skills, including those for diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Reference List: Names and contact information for three professional references.

Review of applications will begin October 1, 2026. For questions, contact Nicholas Brunelli at brunelli.2@osu.edu.