Professor of the Practice: Math/Deep Learning

Description

The Data Science Institute (DSI) at Brown University is seeking to hire a Professor of the Practice of Data Science. (Professors of the Practice are faculty who are hired to enhance Brown’s pedagogical mission and whose qualifications are earned primarily through professional experience rather than scholarly credentials.) The initial appointment would be for a 3-year period, renewable with potential for promotion and longer-term appointments based on performance and need. This in-person position includes teaching in our in-person Data Science Master’s program and the online Master of Science in Data Science: Policy, Governance & Society, advising, and additional responsibilities.

The Professor of the Practice should have a solid background in mathematics (linear algebra, calculus), Deep Learning, Generative AI, Large Language Models, and potentially Machine Learning Operations. The incumbent will teach a Deep Learning course (currently offered by the CS Department as CSCI1470/2470), a new mandatory course on Gen AI and LLMs, and an elective course on ML Ops. All three courses are offered within the in-person master’s program. This candidate will also offer an online summer course for the incoming master’s students to teach/review the required linear algebra, calculus, stats/probability, and python coding required to succeed in these challenging courses.

Qualified candidates will have experience mentoring entry-level data scientists or master’s/undergraduate students to develop career pathways. We seek candidates who will contribute to our overall intellectual culture; these positions will be included in faculty meetings, can advise undergraduate research projects, and can participate in graduate research with the rest of the faculty.

Founded in 1764, Brown University is a leading nonprofit research university based in Providence, Rhode Island. It is home to world-renowned faculty, and also an innovative educational institution where the curiosity, creativity and intellectual joy of students drives academic excellence. 

The DSI serves Brown University as a campus hub for research and education in data science. Engaging partners across campus and beyond, DSI facilitates and conducts both domain-driven and fundamental research in data science, educates the next generation of data scientists, and explores the impact of the data revolution on culture, society, and social justice. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral to the commitment of the Data Science Institute and Brown University. Accordingly, we seek qualified candidates who can contribute to equity, diversity and inclusion through service, mentorship, applications from diverse candidates.

Qualifications

In selecting candidates, we will consider an experienced track record of being the primary instructor in data science related courses and/or relevant work experience in industry and managing a data science team; evidence of effective teaching; evidence of effective mentoring; commitment to diversity and inclusion; and compatibility with the area needs and interests of the DSI, as well as potential for effective participation in DSI or university activities. For all applicants, we will consider potential for impact beyond Brown (through teaching, significant system building, outreach, or other professional activities, as appropriate for the candidate). A strong record of industry experience is required, advanced degree preferred.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit a CV or resume, a teaching statement (outlining their approach to teaching and learning; this can include discussion of relevant experience outside the classroom), a diversity statement, and the contact info of three professional references who could write a recommendation letter if the candidate is short-listed. Applications will be reviewed starting May 1, 2025; we will accept applications until the position is filled.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

As an EEO/AA employer, Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, and caste, which is protected by our University policies.