Open Rank - Assistant/Associate/Full Professor

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill; Elkins Hills (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The Division of Data Science and Society (DSS) at UNC-Chapel Hill invites applications for open-rank tenure-track faculty to advance research in data science foundations, societal impact, and interdisciplinary applications across medical, social, physical, and environmental sciences. This permanent position supports collaboration and public service.

We seek scholars with a Ph.D. or MD and a strong record in AI/ML, data science, and interdisciplinary collaboration, capable of teaching

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or MD with AI/ML expertise.
• Experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Ability to secure external funding is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Advance research in data science foundations, societal impact, and applications across disciplines.
• Collaborate with faculty, students, and external partners across departments.
• Contribute to teaching, mentoring, and supervision of students at undergraduate and graduate levels.

Skills

AI/ML

Data Science

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Teaching

Education

Ph.D. or MD in AI/ML or related field

Job description

Posting Information

• Department: Data Sci and Society - 371210
• Posting Open Date: 09/08/2026
• Application Deadline: 11/16/2026
• Open Until Filled: No
• Position Type: Permanent Faculty
• Working Title: Open Rank - Assistant/Associate/Full Professor
• Appointment Type: Open Rank
• Vacancy ID: FAC0006078
• Full-time/Part-time: Full-Time Permanent
• Hours per week: 40
• FTE: 1
• Position Location: North Carolina, US
• Hiring Range: Commensurate with Education and Experience
• Proposed Start Date: 07/01/2027

Position Information

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

In July 2026, UNC Chapel Hill launched the Division of Data Science and Society within the School of Data and Information Sciences (SDIS), a division devoted to data science teaching, research, scholarship, service, and creativity. DSS's vision is to be a leader in shaping the field of data science through an interdisciplinary and rigorous grounding in theory and methods with a human centric approach to the entire data life cycle.

The mission of DSS is to empower a diverse community of faculty conducting research in the fundamentals and/or the applications of data science. The Division is training undergraduate, graduate, and professional students to be the next generation of data science leaders with the knowledge and skills to thrive in this data-driven world. The Division will serve the state, the nation, and the world through premier data science educational programs and innovative research directed to advancing the public good with human centric and ethical applications.

The core elements of SDIS include porous borders: leveraging our low walled collaborative Carolina culture to solve major societal problems. Interdisciplinary research clusters that cross Division and School boundaries are a vital element of our Scholarly community. The School of Data and Information Sciences is focused on students and education; the emphasis is not just on data science majors but on all students becoming data literate. The School's culture has an open and transparent structure, governance, and business model.

Position Summary

The Division of Data Science and Society (DSS) at UNC-Chapel Hill's School of Data and Information Sciences (SDIS) is excited to announce the fifth year of a strategic open-rank tenure-track faculty hiring initiative. This initiative aims to enhance research and innovation in the rapidly evolving field of data science. We are looking for strong contributors to the areas of data science foundations, the societal impact of data science, and applications in the medical, social, physical, biological, and environmental sciences. This initiative seeks to attract exceptional researchers working within or across the following DSS research pillars:

• Data: Techniques for collecting, storing, disseminating, and translating data into actionable insights.
• Algorithms and Models: Mathematical, computational and statistical tools that empower researchers and stakeholders to discover, create, analyze, present, synthesize, and utilize data.
• Applications: Innovative and effective uses of data and models to advance interdisciplinary knowledge and address pressing social issues.
• Social Impact: Examination of unintended consequences and ethical questions arising from using data to tackle society's most pressing challenges.

UNC-Chapel Hill's interdisciplinary approach to data science research will foster the development of innovative foundational research and applications across various fields. Through collaboration among faculty, students, and external partners, the Division of Data Science and Society in SDIS aims to bridge the gap between academia, industry, and community groups, translating research discoveries into tangible societal benefits. We invite you to join the DSS faculty and be part of this mission.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

The applicants must have a Ph.D. and/or MD with expertise in artificial intelligence/machine learning, computational social sciences, data science, computer science, statistics, applied mathematics, or a related field that applies AI and data science techniques.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Preferred applicants will have a strong research record, evidence of interest in developing, teaching, and supervising courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and an aptitude in working collaboratively in interdisciplinary research. Research with a focus on data science and its applications in addressing societal challenges is preferred. Additionally, candidates must be able to engage with researchers, professionals, and stakeholders from diverse disciplines. A record of or the potential to secure external funding to support research projects is strongly preferred.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority in accordance with the Clery Act. This position will be required to report Clery crimes to the Clery Compliance Manager and complete annual training about reporting responsibilities.

Department Contact Information

Department Contact Name and Title: Lynn Farrar, HR Consultant

Department Contact Telephone or Email: [e-mail]

Academic Personnel Office Contact Information: If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost office at (919)-962-1091 or send an email to [e-mail]. Please note: The Executive Vice Chancellor & Provost office will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status. If you have any questions about the job requirements or the hiring department notify the Department Contact.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.