Statistician Open Rank Faculty Search
The Virginia Tech Department of Statistics (www.stat.vt.edu) invites applications for an open rank tenured or tenure track faculty position in Statistics to begin in August 2018. Requirements include a Ph.D. in statistics or a closely related field; a research focus in data analytics, statistical/machine learning, data mining, stochastic modeling/inference, interactive data visualization, or any related branch of computationally intensive statistical methods; and teaching experience.
This position is part of a major emphasis on statistics, including computational modeling, data science and analytics, and empirical decision making at Virginia Tech. This position will support of the Computational Modeling and Data Analytics (CMDA) program (www.science.vt.edu/ais/cmda). CMDA, a multi-department effort including not just Statistics but also the Departments of Mathematics and of Computer Science, represents an entirely new approach to training quantitative scientists, one that develops foundations for, knowledge of, and skills in computationally intensive techniques for modeling and inference.
Successful applicants will also have the opportunity to be key players in the creation of the university’s “Data Analytics and Decision Sciences” destination area (http://provost.vt.edu/destination-areas/da-data.html). This is a rare opportunity to help develop and grow a truly innovative approach to education and research. Applications from researchers whose work and goals straddle traditional academic boundaries are especially encouraged.
Responsibilities
Expectations for this position include: maintaining a visible and vigorous funded research program; providing effective instruction and advising to a diverse population of undergraduate and graduate students; continuing development of professional capabilities and scholarly activities; curriculum development; participation in department, academy, college, and university governance; and professional service. The faculty handbook (available at http://www.provost.vt.edu) provides a complete description of faculty responsibilities.
Required qualifications
Applicants must have a strong background in statistics with specialization in data analytics, machine learning, data mining, stochastic modeling/inference, interactive data visualization, high performance computing and computationally intensive statistical methods; strong promise for developing, or in the case of senior applicants continuing, a well-funded, internationally distinguished research program; demonstrated experience with and commitment to interdisciplinary research; willingness to cross disciplinary boundaries to tackle complex scientific challenges; a desire to advise and teach a student body that is diverse with respect to socio-economic status, interests, and abilities; and commitment/sensitivity to address issues of diversity in the university community. Applicants must have earned a doctorate in a relevant discipline at the time of appointment.
Preferred qualifications
Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated examples of interdisciplinary scholarship employing statistical and data analytical techniques. Preference will also be given to candidates with postdoctoral or similar experience, with a record of achievement as might be demonstrated during a postdoctoral or previous faculty appointment.
How to apply
Questions regarding the position can be directed to Professor Robert B. Gramacy (rbg@vt.edu), chair of the search committee. Applications must be submitted online at http://listings.jobs.vt.edu (#TR0170087) and should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, teaching statement, research plan, and contact information for at least three references. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2017. As part of the hiring process, the successful applicant must pass a criminal background check.
Virginia Tech is committed to a culturally and ethnically diverse campus environment and to principles that promote inclusive practices. Candidates are encouraged to address in their cover letters how their research, teaching, or service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and inclusion in higher education. More information is available at http://www.inclusive.vt.edu/index.html.
Virginia Tech is an EO/AA university, and offers a wide range of networking and development opportunities to women and minorities in science and engineering. The university recognizes that meeting the needs of today’s professional couples is a key factor in recruiting and retaining new faculty and has established a dual career office to facilitate our commitment (http://www.hr.vt.edu/jobs/job_seeker/dualcareers/). The Department of Statistics offers a supportive environment, including a mentoring program, to its junior faculty. Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should notify Ms. Betty Higginbotham, Department of Statistics, Tel: (540) 231-5657, Email: higgvt@vt.edu.