Research Assistant Professor
Position Title:Research Assistant ProfessorAppointment Type:FacultyJob Description:Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:The Department of Apparel, Events, and Hospitality Management in the College of Health and Human Sciences at Iowa State University is seeking applications for a newly established Research Assistant Professor term position specializing in numerical simulation, performance evaluation, and functional design of personal protective equipment (PPE). This position is affiliated with the laboratories for functional textiles and protective clothing (LABS) located in the Department of Apparel, Events, and Hospitality Management.LABS conducts multidisciplinary/interdisciplinary research and develops new polymers/textiles, smart materials, and clothing systems and subsystems for human safety, health, and wellbeing. LABS research is focused on human physiology, ergonomics, and the functionality of PPE systems to achieve maximum performance.The research program shares Iowa State University (ISU)’s mission to create, share, and apply knowledge by effective integration of science, engineering, technology, and humanity to make the state and the world a better place.This position reports to the director of LABS, the Norma Scott Lloyd Chair of Textiles and Clothing, and the Department Chair. The initial appointment length is three years. Renewal parameters are determined by performance and department need.Job duties:
Secure research funding from various sources.
Publish findings in top-tier journals and conferences.
Mentor students across different levels of expertise.
Foster collaborative research efforts within and outside PPE domains.
Innovate experimental methods and direct the lab’s research focus.
Maintain laboratory infrastructure and participate in academic activities.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. or equivalent degree in textile sciences and engineering, apparel design and engineering, or related fields
Related postdoctoral research experience in personal protective technology field
Preferred Qualifications:
A record of scientific writing and publications
Experience in research funding application and management
Success with federal and state funding agencies for research grants
Familiarity with finite volume analysis tools (e.g. Ansys, COMSOL, etc.) and predictive analytical modeling
Familiarity with 3D modeling, scanning, and printing technologies, as well as experience with parametric CAD tools (e.g. SolidWorks, AutoCAD, etc.)
At least 3 years of experience in PPE performance analysis and design
Knowledge of PPE standards and testing protocols
Experience with AI applications in the PPE field
Knowledge of clothing pattern making and construction
Knowledge of human physiology, ergonomics, and anthropometry
Demonstrated interdisciplinary research and collaboration skills
Experience mentoring undergraduate and graduate students
Department/Program & College Description: The Department of Apparel, Events, and Hospitality Management (AESHM) at Iowa State University is part of the College of Health and Human Sciences. AESHM advances research and innovation in fashion, events, and hospitality management, emphasizing hands-on learning, global engagement, and industry partnerships. With state-of-the-art facilities, the department prepares students for leadership roles in these dynamic industries.AESHM has 18 tenure-track faculty, 11 term faculty, and 7 Professional and Scientific staff, generating over $3.6 million in external funding in FY23-24. The department serves approximately 550 undergraduates in Fashion Design and Merchandising, Event Management, and Hospitality Management, along with over 100 graduate students in M.S. and Ph.D. programs.Specialized facilities include the Laboratories for Functional Textiles and Protective Clothing, Digital Apparel and Textiles Studio, Event Technology and Innovation Lab, Innovate 1858, Joan Bice Underwood Tearoom, SPARKS Cafe, and the Textile and Clothing Museum. Extension programs and community engagement are key to AESHM's mission, fostering hands-on learning and industry connections.The College of Health and Human Sciences at Iowa State University is dedicated to enhancing human potential through research, education, and community engagement. It focuses on health, well-being, STEM education, and lifestyle innovation, striving for transformative leadership and improved quality of life. The college values accessibility, integrity, and sustainability, aiming to advance well-being, education, and technology for individuals, families, and communities.Department Unit/Website: https://aeshm.hs.iastate.edu/Proposed Start Date:February 1, 2025Proposed End Date or Length of Term:December 31, 2027Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timeApplication Instructions:To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please attach the following:1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter3) Contact Information for Three ReferencesIf you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.Why Choose ISU?Iowa State Faculty enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as: Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans Generous leave plans Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa) Life insurance and long-term disability Flexible Spending Accounts Various voluntary benefits and discounts Employee Assistance Program Wellbeing programOriginal Posting Date: December 23, 2024Posting Close Date:January 7, 2025Job Requisition Number:R16096By focusing on the future and providing the best student experience possible, Iowa State attracts students and faculty who want to make a difference. With a comprehensive land-grant mission of education, research, extension and outreach, we produce scholars whose ideas change the world. And through Innovate at Iowa State , we provide innovative and entrepreneurial opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Located just 30 minutes north of Des Moines, the city of Ames was recently named one of the Top 10 cities in the U.S. for campus life and career opportunities. Iowa State University is a welcoming, global, and culturally diverse community of students, faculty, and staff. Campus community members have a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and are committed to engaging with each other respectfully as outlined in the university's Principles of Community (https://www.iastate.edu/diversity-and-inclusion/principles-community) . Iowa State recognizes that diverse intellectual and philosophical perspectives are vital to innovation, critical thinking skills, and a dynamic academic community that fosters the land-grant ideals of putting science, technology, and human creativity to work. All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check and/or a consumer credit check. Iowa State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against. Inquiries can be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, 515 294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu . If you have questions about the application process please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll-Free at 1-877-477-7485 . Iowa State University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should email employment@iastate.edu or call (515) 294-4800 or Toll-Free: (877) 477-7485 . TTY users are welcome to use the Iowa Relay Service number by dialing 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2942 . General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources (https://www.hr.iastate.edu/careers/compensation) website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.