The Department of Urban Studies and Planning (DUSP) together with the Schwarzman College of Computing (SCC) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), located in Cambridge, MA, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the Assistant Professor level in the area of Urban Planning, Computation, and Health of the Planet, beginning July 1, 2025, or as soon thereafter as possible.
Over the past decade the Department of Urban Studies and Planning and the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) at MIT have developed a strong research and teaching agenda focused on understanding the role of information technologies, AI, data ethics and reciprocity, sensors, networks, and other computational tools in the planning and development of equitable urban environments. We have also developed new technologies and tools with community partners to model, envision, and communicate information about the city.
We seek candidates who can build upon and extend this agenda through teaching and research focused on the health of the planet – in particular the global climate crisis – and whose research involves the development and/or conceptually novel application of computational and/or data science methods. Areas of interest include decarbonization, urban and regional adaptation and resilience, environmental justice, energy and natural resource systems, participatory methods, and Indigenous knowledge. Successful candidates will apply innovative computational and machine learning approaches, including human-computer interaction (HCI), large-scale modeling and simulation (including computational ecology), and advanced sensing. The use of novel, computational, context-sensitive methods in meeting the needs of cities and communities, as well as in teaching and connecting to urban planning, design and/or policy are of utmost importance. We are particularly interested in candidates who center relationality with respect to land and water; sustainable, and racially and economically just approaches; and who combine theory, research, community engagement and/or professional practice. Candidates should also show demonstrated capabilities in interdisciplinary endeavors as well as to local, national, and international service.
Qualifications:
A terminal degree in Urban Planning (M.C.P. or Ph.D.), Architecture (M. Arch. or Ph.D.), Landscape Architecture (M.L.A. or Ph.D.), or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Urban Geography, Indigenous Community Planning, Atmospheric or Climate Science, Civil Engineering, Data Science and Ethics or a related field, is required by the start of employment. The successful candidate will have a shared appointment in both DUSP and the SCC in either the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society or the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, depending on best fit. Faculty duties include conducting original research, and teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in subjects related to urban planning and computing; advising and mentoring students. The normal teaching load is three subjects per year (2,1 or 1,2). Candidates are expected to teach in both DUSP and educational programs of SCC.
DUSP and the SCC seek candidates of the highest ability with the brightest futures, representing the diverse tapestry of the United States and our global community. We value unique perspectives and believe when we come together in the spirit of education, innovation, and discovery, our varied views and experiences build a stronger, more inclusive and enriching environment. We strongly encourage applications from individuals from all identities and backgrounds.
Applications should be submitted through the Interfolio web site at: http://apply.interfolio.com/156251.
A complete application package includes (a) a cover letter, (b) curriculum vitae, (c) a statement outlining current and future research and teaching interests; and (d) the names, affiliations, and email addresses of at least three referees.
Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2024 and will continue until December 15, 2024.
