Assistant Professor Position in Energy-Efficient Computing or Materials Circularity (Tenure-Track)

Job Summary

The Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute (RASEI), a dynamic joint institute of the University of Colorado-Boulder and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), dedicated to accelerating solutions in renewable energy, climate resilience, and sustainability through collaborative, cross-cutting interdisciplinary research, in collaboration with affiliated departments across campus, invites applications for a tenure-track or tenured faculty position at the Assistant level. We seek exceptional candidates conducting innovative, interdisciplinary research with a specific interest for those investigating energy-efficient computing, sustainable digital infrastructure, or materials circularity.

Areas of Interest:
RASEI is particularly interested in candidates whose research addresses challenges broadly across ways to improve energy efficiency, but with particular interest in one or more of the following focus areas:

Energy-Efficient Computing and Digital Infrastructure:
Including but not limited to:

• Low-energy database operations, data center design, and thermal management
• Novel computing architectures, including optical, superconducting, and neuromorphic systems
• Improving energy efficiency of training and using AI/ML, including model training optimization and algorithmic compression
• Materials and device innovations for low-power switching, displays, and memory
• Hardware-software co-design for minimizing the environmental impact of computing
• Carbon-aware software development: Design of software systems that are carbon-intelligent in terms of runtime, compute location, and job scheduling
• Edge AI and decentralized systems: Sustainable design for edge devices and federated learning GPH1, reducing dependence on centralized data centers
• Energy-aware AI for energy systems: Applying AI/ML to optimize energy grids, buildings, or industrial systems with a focus on efficiency and decarbonization

Materials Circularity and Critical Mineral Recovery and Use Strategies:
Including but not limited to:

• Circular electronics and sustainable design for computing hardware
• Recovery and recycling of rare earth elements and critical minerals
• Separation science, membrane-based extraction, or electrochemical purification technologies
• Substitution strategies and life-cycle assessment for application and a significant dependence on critical elements and minerals (e.g., for electronics, computing, and aerospace applications)

Candidates working at the intersection of differing aspects of these themes are especially encouraged to apply.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

The University of Colorado Boulder is an R1 public research university and a member of the AAU. RASEI fosters cutting-edge energy research across CU Boulder and NREL, drawing on regional and national strengths in renewable energy, circular economy, computing, policy and analysis, advanced materials, and environmental systems. We are committed to building an inclusive vibrant intellectual community.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Successful candidates will be expected to engage in undergraduate and graduate teaching and mentoring; develop an externally funded research program in their technical area; contribute professional leadership and service to the RASEI, tenure unit, and their professional community; and cultivate and contribute to the inclusive excellence of our academic community.
• The typical distribution of work for this role is 40% teaching, 40% scholarly and creative work (research), and 20% service.

What You Should Know

• The selected candidate will have a tenure appointment in a partnering academic department at CU Boulder and a faculty appointment in RASEI.
• As part of the University of Colorado Boulder’s deep commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, the campus has implemented a reference check pilot program with respect to final candidates for tenured faculty appointments. The reference check pilot program is intended to allow CU Boulder to collect and review information about a candidate's conduct at their previous institutions, specifically conduct related to sexual misconduct, harassment, and/or discrimination – before making hiring decisions. All final candidates for tenured faculty appointments are required to complete an Authorization to Release Information.

What We Can Offer

• The salary range for this full-time position is $105,000 - $145,000.
• A signing bonus is available for this position within department guidelines.

Benefits

At the , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the program.

Be Statements

Be curious. Be inspired. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• A Ph.D. or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., Electrical and Computer Engineering, Materials Science, Computer Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or related disciplines).
• ABD candidates will be considered but must be conferred the PhD degree prior by August 1, 2027.
• A strong record of scholarly research and potential (or demonstrated ability) for securing external funding.
• Commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, inclusive excellence, and impactful teaching and mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate levels.