Associate Professor, Sustainable Energy Systems

The University of Central Florida is seeking an Associate Professor in Sustainable Energy Systems for a full-time, tenure-track position in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. The role involves leading research in energy systems, with a focus on advanced chemical energy carriers and nuclear energy systems. Candidates should have a strong background in fluid mechanics and energy systems engineering, and a proven record of research and funding.
The Opportunity
The University of Central Florida (UCF) has established several interdisciplinary faculty research clusters to strengthen its academic offerings and research mission. In support of this effort, the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) at the College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS) invites applicants for a 9‑month, full‑time assistant professor (tenure‑track) or associate professor (tenured) faculty position, with core faculty status in the Center for Advanced Turbomachinery and Energy Research (CATER). This position has an anticipated start date of August 8, 2026.


This is an interdisciplinary position expected to strengthen both CATER and MAE, the home tenure department, and may include a combination of joint appointments. A strong advantage of this position is the candidate's ability to choose multiple units for a joint appointment at the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of Sciences, or both.


All candidates whose research is at the forefront of energy systems, resilience, and sustainability will be considered. We seek candidates with a strong foundation in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer, and energy systems engineering, and a demonstrated research record in electric power generation and/or energy storage. The technical fields of specific research interest for the position are limited to the following research areas:


Research Focus Areas

Advanced Chemical Energy Carriers – production and storage: particularly chemicals such as ammonia, methanol, or hydrogen, derived from primary energy sources such as nuclear energy or from hydrocarbon feedstock or from electricity through chemical pathways.
Advanced Nuclear Energy Systems: including small modular reactors (SMRs), microreactors, molten salt reactors, liquid metal reactors and high‑temperature gas‑cooled reactors.

The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate the ability to establish an independent research program focused on fundamental engineering principles and to demonstrate system‑level and application‑wide knowledge in at least one of the two research areas above. Some specific topics include, but are not limited to, rotordynamics for high‑speed rotor systems for supercritical carbon dioxide power cycles, molten salt corrosion in next‑generation nuclear systems, or flow reactors with optimal catalyst loading that would support ammonia production or cracking, etc.


Candidates should demonstrate the ability to lead an independent, externally funded research program and contribute to interdisciplinary collaborations. A strong record of peer‑reviewed publications, mentorship, and engagement with industry, national laboratories, or large‑scale research initiatives is highly desirable. Experience with computational tools (e.g., CFD, FEA, system‑level modeling) and/or experimental platforms for energy systems is expected.


Minimum Qualifications

An earned doctoral degree or foreign degree equivalent from an accredited institution, in an area appropriate to CATER and MAE at the time of appointment. The selected candidate must also have a record of high impact research related to energy systems, demonstrated by a strong scholarly and/or funding record.
In order to obtain tenure upon hire as an associate professor, the selected candidate must have a demonstrated record of teaching, research, and service commensurate with rank in the tenure home department.

Preferred Qualifications

Past work experiences in a national lab and/or industry are desired.
A history of working with teams, especially teams that span multiple disciplines, is a highly preferred qualification.
Prior work experience with one of the two applications mentioned earlier is highly preferred.

Additional Application Materials Required

A curriculum vitae.
A letter of interest describing qualifications for the position, such as research agenda and teaching experience/interest.

Special Instructions to the Applicants
On March 10, 2026, UCF received clarification that the current State moratorium on H 1B visas applies not only to new sponsorships but also to H 1B transfers into the institution. This means we are unable to process transfers for individuals currently holding H 1B status with other employers. UCF will share updates as soon as State guidance changes or additional details become available.


Job Close Date
Open until filled


Contact
Questions regarding this search should be directed to: Diana Perez, Administrative Assistant III, at diana.perez@ucf.edu.


Benefits

Benefit packages, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending, and Employee Assistance Program.
Paid time off, including annual (12‑month faculty) and sick time off and paid holidays.
Retirement savings options.
Employee discounts, including tickets to many Orlando attractions.
Education assistance.
Flexible work environment.
And more… For more benefits information, view the UCF Employee Benefits Guide.

Unless explicitly stated on the job posting, it is UCF's expectation that an employee of UCF will reside in Florida as of the date the employment begins.


If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 407‑823‑1336 or email onac@ucf.edu.


For general application or posting questions, please email talent@ucf.edu.