Tenure-Track Assistant Professor Position in Human Development

The Department of Educational Psychology in the College of Education at The University of Texas at Austin is seeking a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the area of Human Development. The person hired in this position will conduct research examining how developmental processes shape learning, educational experiences, and well-being across the lifespan, with particular attention to the cultural, social, and institutional contexts in which learning and development occur. We envision a scholar whose work bridges developmental science and the learning sciences to address questions of central importance to education. This work might examine how cognitive, social, emotional, or neurobiological development influences learning; how educational environments interact with individual development; how developmental transitions shape educational experiences and outcomes; or how schools and other learning environments can better support development, learning, and well-being. We particularly welcome scholars who bring a developmental neuroscience perspective to questions of learning and education, while also encouraging applicants who use other rigorous and innovative theoretical, methodological, or interdisciplinary approaches. Across approaches, we seek a scholar whose research can contribute to educational research, practice, programs, or policy by deepening understanding of how people learn and develop within the contexts in which education occurs.

UT's Department of Educational Psychology has robust graduate programs and is currently ranked #6 among the Best Educational Psychology Programs rated by U.S. News & World Report . The Department advances knowledge about the human experience at the intersection of education and psychology through research, teaching, and practice. It provides an interdisciplinary and contemporary approach to learning and development and seeks to enhance the quality of the human experience through rigorous educational and psychological research, and effective translation of findings to policy and practice.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Established in 1891, the College of Education at UT Austin consistently ranks among the nation's top public colleges of education. It is home to approximately 3,500 undergraduate and graduate students and more than 300 faculty. In addition to its longstanding commitment to academic excellence, the college has an extraordinary record of advancing innovation, opportunity, health and well-being, and educational improvement through research, teaching, and public engagement. With annual research expenditures totaling ~$60 million, the college generates knowledge with direct relevance for schools, communities, health systems, and government agencies across Texas and beyond. We also contribute to the state through the preparation of educators and health professionals and through a large network of external partnerships.

Over the past five years, the college has expanded its academic programs and enrollment. The college serves students from major metropolitan areas, smaller cities, rural regions, and border communities in Texas, while also welcoming students from other states and countries. Our students' experiences and perspectives strengthen the college's mission to prepare educators, professionals, researchers, and leaders who can address pressing educational and community needs.

The University of Texas at Austin is the state's leading research university, with approximately $1.3 billion in annual research expenditures and a total enrollment of more than 55,000 students. As a member of the Association of American Universities, UT Austin provides a robust ecosystem for interdisciplinary research through partnerships with Dell Medical School, the School of Social Work, and many other academic and research units on campus.

The campus is situated in Austin, one of the nation's most dynamic and fastest-growing cities, and it is in a state that offers outstanding opportunities for scholarly inquiry. Texas is home to more than 10% of the nation's PK–12 student population, and approximately 30% of Texas students speak a home language other than English, collectively representing more than 100 languages. Texas has also experienced significant growth in its healthcare, sports, and education sectors. Together, the scale and complexity of Texas, the dynamism of Austin, and the research strength of UT Austin offer an exceptional environment for scholars seeking to advance knowledge and improve lives.

Review of applications will begin October 19, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration, please provide all requested materials by October 16, 2026. Applications should be submitted through Interfolio and include the following materials:

· Cover letter with contact information

· Full C.V.

· Research statement that includes research accomplishments and future research direction.

· Teaching and Mentoring Statement that describes specific methods used to ensure effective student mentoring and a classroom environment that is welcoming, engaging and supportive of student learning and success.

· Up to three representative publications

· A list of three references with contact information

For additional information about the department, see https: // education.utexas.edu/departments/educational-psychology/

For questions regarding the application process, please contact Becky Cook ([email protected]). Questions about the positions can be directed to the chair of the search committee, Dr. Laura Quiñones Camacho ([email protected]).

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.