"Lecturer in Urban Science and Planning"

Over the past decades the Department of Urban Studies and Planning (DUSP) and the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) at MIT have developed a strong research and teaching agenda focused on understanding the role of information technologies, data, sensors and networks in the planning and development of urban environments. We have also developed new technologies and tools to model, envision and communicate information about the city. We have recently established a new joint undergraduate major in urban and computer science as well as New Engineering Education Transformation (NEET) thread in Digital Cities of which this position would be central. In addition, MIT has created a new College of Computing, which requires the development of new collaborations between DUSP and other computing researchers. We are searching for candidates who can build on and extend this agenda through teaching involving advanced information systems and analytics, communication and media, and/or simulation technologies related to urban planning and computer science.

Full-time participation in educational activities during the academic terms (Fall, Independent Activities Period, and Spring including: Interacting with students and faculty by lecturing, leading recitations, problem sets, or staffing lab and office hours. Creating curricula content, such as lecture materials, problem sets, quizzes, videos, and other online materials. Also Carrying out administrative and advising responsibilities. Research opportunities might arise, such as co-supervision of undergraduate or master’s projects.

A Ph.D. or Master’s Degree in areas related to responsibilities (e.g. Urban Planning, Computer Science, Geography, Architecture). We are especially interested in candidates that can demonstrate familiarity with the connection between computer science and social sciences/urban planning and whose work is aligned with DUSP’s priorities of achieving racial justice, attaining climate integrity, closing the wealth gap, and enhancing democratic governance. Teaching the connection between computation, meeting the needs of cities and communities, and ethical concerns is of utmost importance, as is demonstrated interest in educational innovation. Candidates should have significant programming experience, be familiar with database systems, and be comfortable working with statistical packages. Candidates should also have considerable experience with geoprocessing technologies, web mapping, and visualization. Applicants from under-represented minority groups, particularly Black and Indigenous applicants, are especially encouraged to apply.

A complete application package includes a cover letter, c.v., a statement of prior experience including a few paragraphs describing your work, and the names, affiliations, and email addresses of at least two references. A digital portfolio of work (not to exceed 20 pages) is recommended but not required.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Please do not send materials by email. For technical issues, please contact Interfolio staff at 877-997-8807 or help@interfolio.com. Other questions can be directed to Jesse Kaminsky at kaminsk@mit.edu.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin. MIT’s full policy on Nondiscrimination can be found here.

Background Check Policy Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check, including possible verification of any findings of misconduct (or pending investigations) from prior employers.