Faculty Position in Water Data Science

About the Role

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Northwestern University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position in the broad area of artificial intelligence and data science for water. The successful candidate will build and sustain a world-class research program in intelligent, adaptive, and autonomous water technologies for water-resilient communities, integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning into the design, optimization, and security of next-generation water systems.

Research areas include, but are not limited to:

• AI-enabled water treatment technologies
• Optimization of water treatment processes and systems
• Water resources data analysis and planning
• Water reuse and resource recovery
• Links between water quality and public health

Research approaches can include theoretical, computational, and experimental methods. The faculty appointment may be made at the level of either Assistant Professor or Associate Professor.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and sustain a world-class research program.
• Integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning into the design, optimization, and security of next-generation water systems.
• Develop collaborations leveraging Northwestern’s robust research centers and institutes.
• Engage in water research with high-tech industry and governmental agencies.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Ph.D. or near completion of doctoral studies.
• Demonstrated potential to develop an advanced research and education program.

Qualifications

• Expertise in artificial intelligence and data science for water.
• Ability to develop research and education programs in the aforementioned areas.

Application Instructions

Candidates should submit the following:

• A cover letter summarizing qualifications in developing research and education programs in artificial intelligence and data science for water.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Statement of research.
• Statement of teaching.
• Names and contact information for three to five references.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. For full consideration, all materials should be received by December 1, 2026.

Compensation

• Assistant Professor: $133,000 – $143,000 (nine-month academic appointment)
• Associate Professor: $145,000 – $158,000 (nine-month academic appointment)

Compensation is subject to negotiation and does not include summer salary.

Sponsorship for an H-1B visa may be available for qualified candidates.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Paid medical/sick and parental leave.
• Tuition benefits for the employee and dependents.
• Pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care.
• Generous retirement savings options.
• Wellness programs.