Assistant Professor in Quantum Computing and Quantum Engineering (Position # 50155)

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at Southern Methodist University (SMU) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Quantum Computing and Quantum Engineering. We seek outstanding candidates who will establish a high-impact, externally funded research program, contribute to the growing quantum ecosystem at SMU, and help shape the future of quantum engineering education and research. 

We welcome applicants working broadly in quantum computing and quantum engineering, including areas such as quantum architecture and systems, hardware-software co-design, quantum design automation, quantum error correction, quantum security, quantum sensing, and quantum communications. Candidates whose research connects quantum computing with areas such as computer architecture, hardware and systems security, and electronic design automation (EDA) are particularly encouraged to apply. Exceptional candidates from other areas of electrical and computer engineering with a demonstrated record of research excellence are also encouraged to apply. 

The successful candidate will be expected to establish a nationally recognized research program, attract external funding, advise graduate and undergraduate students, and develop interdisciplinary collaborations within and beyond SMU. The candidate will contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching in Quantum Engineering and related ECE areas, including courses in quantum computing, quantum sensing, quantum communications and networking, quantum design automation, and other emerging quantum technologies. 

The position offers opportunities to contribute to and collaborate with SMU's growing quantum computing ecosystem, including the M.S. in Quantum Engineering program and the Darwin Deason Institute for Cybersecurity. 

About the Lyle School of Engineering 

The Lyle School of Engineering has embarked on an ambitious journey, successfully hiring numerous outstanding faculty members, including several endowed professors during the recent past. Our culture of faculty growth thrives on innovation, fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment. We are committed to cutting-edge research funded by competitive federal grants, industry-funded projects and philanthropic gifts, which advances our academic goals and provides students with a competitive edge in industry and/or academia. Our mission is to lead in the digital transformation of engineering education, equipping students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills to emerge as confident, capable leaders. Through excellence and innovation, we aim to significantly impact the engineering landscape and beyond.  Lyle offers a collaborative research environment with growing strengths in quantum information science and engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, advanced computing, energy systems, and semiconductor technologies and provides strong opportunities for academic, industry and government collaboration.

About SMU 

SMU is a private university of 12,000 students and offers strong undergraduate, graduate and professional programs through eight schools – Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, Cox School of Business, Meadows School of the Arts, Lyle School of Engineering, Perkins School of Theology, Dedman School of Law, Simmons School of Education and Human Development, and the Moody Graduate School of Advanced Studies. SMU is a Carnegie R1 research university, a designation recognizing the highest level of research activity. The university continues to invest in expanding its research capabilities and supporting interdisciplinary scholarships. It offers a collaborative research environment with growing strengths in quantum information science and engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and semiconductor technologies. Located in Dallas, Texas, SMU provides strong opportunities for academic, industry, and government collaboration. 

SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.  

Qualifications 

Applicants are required to hold a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Quantum Engineering, or a closely related field by the time of appointment and demonstrate strong potential for excellence in research, teaching, and student mentorship. 

Application Instructions 

Applications must be submitted via Interfolio (http://apply.interfolio.com/194109) and should include a cover letter, research statement (maximum 3 pages), teaching statement (maximum 2 pages), complete curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information for three professional references. To ensure full consideration for the position, the application must be received by December 5, 2026, but the committee will continue to accept applications until the position is filled. The committee will notify applicants of the employment decision after the position is filled. Hiring is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of a background check. The start date for the position is negotiable, but the desired start date is August 1, 2027.