Associate/Professor of OU Polytechnic Institute– Applied Artificial Intelligence (Ranked Renewable Term)

Description

The University of Oklahoma (OU) is embarking on a transformational endeavor to grow the newly established OU Polytechnic Institute (OUPI). The aims are to further strengthen the educational landscape of the state, provide students with a unique educational experience that will enable them to be successful throughout their careers and respond to industry's need for a well-educated, highly skilled and adaptable workforce to meet current and future needs.  This position will begin the newly announced extension of the OUPI from Tulsa at the OU-Tulsa Schusterman Center campus to include the Norman Campus as a part of the Gallogly College of Engineering (GCoE). Enrollment for the inaugural class in applied artificial intelligence began this past November and classes will start in August 2025. The position is expected to be a 9-month appointment with the option for 3 additional months of support.

OUPI seeks applicants for a full-time rank renewable term Associate or Full Professor position with teaching emphasis in applied artificial intelligence, applied computing, and related fields beginning August 2025. We seek a teaching-focused scholar in applied AI, applied computing, or related areas who is eager to mentor students and help launch new degree programs. OUPI is building bachelor’s programs in Norman, junior-/senior-level completion programs in Tulsa, and graduate degrees that address workforce needs in cybersecurity, software development and integration, applied AI, healthcare information systems, and digital manufacturing—all underpinned by data-science competencies.

The successful candidate will lead curriculum innovation, communicate effectively, collaborate eagerly with colleagues, and show genuine empathy toward students. Scholarly creativity may span pedagogical research, curriculum design, recruitment and retention, or K-12 outreach, with outputs such as conference presentations or education-journal publications.

In support of OU’s ambitious plan for strategic growth (https://www.ou.edu/coe/about), GCoE is investing in rapid growth of faculty numbers and we expect to see within the next three years total growth of nearly 70% in faculty size. GCoE currently has more than 4,000 students and we are heavily invested in growing our graduate and undergraduate student bodies with a goal of reaching more than a 20% increase in the next six years. We seek candidates who are excited to contribute to the goals of our strategic growth and foster a welcoming environment in all aspects of faculty responsibility, including within the classroom and the academic community, and within their professional commitments.  Information about OUPI is available at https://www.ou.edu/polytechnic. 

The University of Oklahoma is a Carnegie-R1 comprehensive public research university known for excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement, serving the educational, cultural, economic and healthcare needs of the state, region, and nation from three campuses: the main campus in Norman, the Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City, and the Schusterman Center in Tulsa. OU enrolls over 34,000 students and has more than 2,900 full-time faculty members in 21 colleges. Norman is a culturally rich and vibrant town located in the Oklahoma City metro area. With outstanding schools, amenities, and a low cost of living, Norman is a perennial contender on the “Best Places to Live” rankings. Visit https://www.ou.edu/facultyrecruitment for more information.

The University of Oklahoma invests in its faculty by providing support and resources through our Center for Faculty Excellence and Office of Vice President for Research and Partnerships. The GCoE supports faculty development through mentoring, new faculty orientation series, and access to research and educational support. Candidates who seek to work in a rapidly growing college, in collegial interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary groups, and in strong academic units are encouraged to apply.

Strategic Plan

Refreshed in 2025, “Lead On, University” Strategic Plan is a dynamic roadmap guiding OU’s future. The Plan aligns academic excellence, student success, research innovation, and community impact, ensuring OU remains a leader in higher education. With a focus on One OU, this Plan unites our campuses and stakeholders to drive meaningful progress. (see https://www.ou.edu/leadon for details).

Qualifications

Candidates must have the requisite record of professional experience, research, scholarship, teaching and mentoring to hold the rank of associate or full professor in applied artificial intelligence or a related field. Applicants must have earned a doctoral degree in a computing-related field by the date the position starts and teaching experience at the college level in applied artificial intelligence or a closely related field. Experience with computing student education through teaching and student mentoring is required. Evidence of scholarship in computing and/or engineering education is preferred.

Application Instructions

Applicants are invited to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the contact information for at least four references. The cover letter may describe how the applicant’s background and career goals will support the success of OUPI students.  Additional materials may be requested at a later date. Documents should be uploaded to http://apply.interfolio.com/167899 . Initial screening of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Inquiries may be sent to the search committee chair: Dr. John Hassell, University of Oklahoma at hassell@ou.edu. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to:  admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, or health care services that the University operates or provides.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. 

Mission of the University of Oklahoma

The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.