Assistant/Associate Professor in Aviation (Tenure-Track)

University of Oklahoma; United States; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Oklahoma is seeking a tenure-track Assistant/Associate Professor for the School of Aviation, located on the Norman Campus. The position emphasizes teaching and research in aviation, with expectations for a 2 plus 2 teaching load. Qualified candidates should possess a terminal degree and a commitment to educational advancement.

The role supports the School's growth through innovative research in areas of unmanned systems, aviation psychology, and safety. The application process is conducted via Interfolio, providing resources for applicants.

Qualifications

• Commitment to advancing education and research in aviation.
• Experience as a pilot instructor, corporate pilot, or commercial aircrew is valued.
• Ability to develop a research and teaching plan.

Responsibilities

• Teach courses as part of a 2 plus 2 teaching load.
• Support the growth of the School of Aviation.
• Contribute to innovative research in aviation.

Skills

Unmanned Aerial Systems

Human Factors

Aviation/Aerospace Security

Aviation/Aerospace Safety

Aviation Psychology

Business Program Management

Applied Educational Studies

Airplane Pilot/Instructor

Air Traffic Control

Airport Management

Education

Terminal degree in a related field

Job description

University of Oklahoma Norman Campus: Atmospheric and Geographic Sciences: School of Aviation

Location

School of Aviation

Description

The School of Aviation ( https://www.ou.edu/ags/aviation ) at the University of Oklahoma is inviting applications for a tenure-track Assistant/Associate Professor position. The school is housed within the College of Atmospheric and Geographic Sciences (AGS). In addition to the School of Aviation, the College comprises the Department of Geography and Environmental Sustainability and the School of Meteorology. Together, these units form one of the most comprehensive and impactful colleges of their kind in the world. Each unit contributes distinct strengths, and collectively they deliver innovative, industry-aligned degree programs, cutting‑edge research, and meaningful public service that address critical state, national, and global needs. Enrollment in AGS has grown by more than 70% over the past decade, reaching approximately 1,250 undergraduate and graduate students in fall 2025. We attract students from across the nation and around the world; 62% come from out of state, and 18% identify as first‑generation college students. The School of Aviation is the main driver for this growth in enrollment. Students choose our programs for their academic excellence, hands‑on learning environment, strong career outcomes, and mission‑driven culture.

We seek an innovative scholar committed to advancing education and research in aviation to support the OU School of Aviation's expansion, which is facilitated by major investments in a new fleet of aircraft and buildings.

The teaching load will be 2 plus 2.

The committee chair for this search is Eric Wydra, director of the School of Aviation.

Qualifications

• Unmanned Aerial Systems
• Human Factors
• Aviation/Aerospace Security
• Aviation/Aerospace Safety
• Aviation Psychology
• Business Program Management (e.g. FAA, ICAO, DoD, NASA)
• Applied Educational Studies (Aviation)
• Airplane Pilot/Instructor
• Air Traffic Control
• Airport Management

Prior experience as a pilot instructor, corporate pilot, or commercial aircrew is valued.

Successful applicants will possess a terminal degree in a related field. Applicants who will soon complete a terminal degree will also be considered.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit 1) a cover letter describing their interest in and highlighting their qualifications for the position, 2) a full curriculum vitae, 3) a 1-2 page research plan listing accomplishments and future plans, 4) a 1-2 page teaching plan listing teaching experience and future interests, 5) a statement about their prior and planned contributions to professional service (e.g. through mentoring roles or involvement in committees), and 6) contact information (email and phone numbers) for three people who will be asked to provide confidential letters of recommendation. Please combine all these materials into one file and submit via Interfolio.

Application Process

This institution is using Interfolio's Faculty Search to conduct the search. Applicants to this position receive a free Dossier account and can send all application materials, including confidential letters of recommendation, free of charge.

The University, 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, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), 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, housing, financial aid, and educational services.