Assistant Professor in Statistics and Biostatistics

Statistics Interest Group; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Department of Statistics and Operations Research invites applications for an Assistant Professor in Statistics and Biostatistics. This early-career hire focuses on foundational statistical and optimization methods for safe AI with applications in biomedicine and public health.

The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate courses, build an independent research program, and contribute to service within the department, with

Qualifications

• PhD in statistics/biostatistics/operations research/AI or related field.
• Interest areas include robust and stochastic optimization, generative and foundation models, reliable machine learning, uncertainty quantification, and AI systems operating under uncertainty.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses at the intersection of statistics, biostatistics, and AI.
• Develop an independent research program with emphasis on methods for safe AI in biomedicine and public health.
• Contribute to service and collaboration within the department and with applied researchers.

Skills

Teaching experience

Research independence

Communication

Education

PhD in statistics/biostatistics/operations research/AI

Job description

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — Department of Statistics and Operations Research – Assistant Professor in Statistics and Biostatistics

Position Title Assistant Professor in Statistics and Biostatistics

Duties and Responsibilities

This early-career hire will focus on foundational statistical and optimization methods for safe and reliable AI, with applications in biomedicine and public health. Duties of this position include teaching, research, and service. The hired candidate will be expected to teach courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels at the intersection of their expertise and the needs of the department.

Position Qualifications

The departments are seeking candidates with a doctorate (or foreign equivalent) in statistics, biostatistics, operations research, artificial intelligence or a related field. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, robust and stochastic optimization, generative and foundation models, reliable and robust machine learning, uncertainty quantification, sequential decision-making, and AI systems operating under uncertainty in high-stakes environments. The secondary appointment in Biostatistics will facilitate close collaboration with applied researchers and provide pathways for translating methods into practice. Candidates are expected to highlight the connection between their research and their application focus in their cover letters.

Screening of applications will begin November 9, 2026, on a rolling basis. Applicants are encouraged to apply by that date to be included in the initial review cycle; applications submitted afterwards will continue to receive full consideration while the position remains open. The application package should include a cover letter, an up-to-date curriculum vitae, research and teaching statements, representative papers, and a list of relevant graduate courses taken. Applicants should also arrange for four letters of recommendation. At least one of the letters should include an evaluation of the applicant's teaching ability. For inquiries, please contact [e-mail].