Description
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities
The Department of Urban Planning and Development (UPD) in the College of Design at Iowa State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in technology, urban analytics and planning. We seek a scholar and educator whose research and teaching connect data and emerging technologies to contemporary urban and regional issues. The successful candidate will strengthen the department’s capacity in planning methods while developing a forward-looking research agenda that explores how emerging technologies can enhance the ways planners understand, analyze, visualize, and shape places. This work should demonstrate careful attention to the ethical and responsible use of data and technology in planning research and practice. Anticipated start date is August 16, 2027. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Areas of Interest
This position provides an opportunity to strengthen and modernize core departmental capacity in planning methods while building new strength in AI, urban analytics, visualization, and using technology in planning. Areas of research and teaching interest may include: urban analytics and data-driven planning, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in planning, PlanTech and digital planning tools, quantitative planning methods, data visualization and geovisualization, emerging issues in technology and planning, and ethical and responsible applications of AI and data in planning. The position is intended to connect analytical and technological innovation with planning practice.
About the Department of Urban Planning and Development
The Department of Urban Planning and Development (UPD) at Iowa State University prepares students to address the complex challenges facing cities, towns, and regions. Through teaching, research, and community engagement, UPD faculty focus on areas such as land-use planning, housing, transportation, community and economic development, environmental resilience, local governance and planning technologies, with a strong emphasis on applying planning knowledge to real-world community needs. Please visit the departmental website for more information: Department of Urban Planning and Development, Iowa State University
Requirements
The successful candidate will be expected to
Develop and maintain a nationally recognized program of research and scholarship, including pursuing external funding appropriate to the defined research agenda. Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in planning methods, urban analytics, technology in planning, and/or related areas. Contribute to other planning courses, studios, and other departmental curricular needs. Integrate emerging technologies and contemporary analytical methods into planning education. Mentor undergraduate and graduate students and serve on graduate thesis committees. Collaborate with faculty across the College of Design, ISU Extension and other units at Iowa State University. Contribute to departmental, college, university, and professional service.
Required Minimum Qualifications
Ph.D. or terminal degree in urban and regional planning, community and regional planning, geography, urban studies, or a closely related field by the time of appointment.
Preferred Qualifications
Evidence of potential for effective undergraduate and graduate teaching. Research and teaching expertise in two or more of the following: urban analytics, AI and emerging planning technologies, quantitative methods, and data visualization. Evidence of potential to develop a strong program of research and scholarship and secure external research funding. Experience with interdisciplinary, applied, or community-engaged research. Experience integrating emerging technologies into teaching and/or professional planning practice.
Candidates should submit
Letter of application describing their interest in the position and alignment with their research and teaching responsibilities. A current curriculum vitae. A research statement describing current scholarship and future research and funding agenda. A teaching statement describing teaching philosophy, experience, and potential contributions to the UPD curriculum. Contact information for three professional references.
Review of applications will begin December 15, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is August 16, 2027.
Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Carlton Basmajian, Search Committee Chair, at carlton@iastate.edu. Questions about the application process may be directed to employment@iastate.edu or 515-294-4800.
