Description

Position Overview

The University of Kansas seeks a Visiting Assistant Professor in Algebra and/or Combinatorics in the Department Mathematics to begin 8/18/2026. This is a non-tenure track, limited term, full-time appointment for three consecutive academic years through 5/16/2029. The faculty member will participate in the teaching mission of the Mathematics Department, which includes courses at the undergraduate and graduate level; conduct research in one of the designated areas leading to publication in appropriate media; and engage in department and professional service. Ph.D., ABD, or terminal degree is expected by the start date of appointment. The successful candidate for the position must be eligible to work in the U.S. prior to the start of the position.

The Department of Mathematics has an internationally recognized faculty and a strong graduate program leading to both the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. The department plays a central role in advancing the research and teaching missions of the university, especially as they relate to the advancement of the STEM disciplines. Students at all levels throughout the university benefit from the research, teaching and outreach efforts of the Mathematics Department. A broad range of programs is possible including algebra, analysis, combinatorics, control theory, dynamical systems, geometry, numerical analysis, probability, statistics, stochastic analysis/control, partial differential equations, set theory, and topology. The department has a long tradition of excellence. The first Ph.D. granted west of the Mississippi was in mathematics at KU in 1895. Since then, the graduate program has been a central part of the department's research and teaching. Historic Snow Hall, which houses the department, contains state-of-the-art classrooms, lecture spaces, computer labs, and other facilities.

The College emphasizes interdisciplinary, experiential learning and global awareness, houses a vibrant university wide Honors Program that highlights undergraduate research and service activities, and has created strong affiliations with outstanding cross-disciplinary research centers. Faculty and academic staff have emphasized the importance of continuing and expanding on relationships with centers and entities including the Biodiversity Institute, Kansas Biological Survey, Kansas Geological Survey, the Hall Center for the Humanities, the Life Span Institute, the Institute for Policy and Social Research, the Spencer Museum of Art and the Natural History Museum. These relationships have brought a broad range of disciplines together to pursue and conduct sponsored research and education at the international, national, state, regional and local levels, and have created employment structures in which faculty and academic staff share appointments to emphasize collaboration. College faculty and research staff are welcomed as members in all KU's designated research centers and institutes.

The University of Kansas is a major public research and teaching institution that operates through a multi-campus system. KU's many parts are bound together by a mission to serve as a "center for learning, research, scholarship and creative endeavor" in the state of Kansas, the nation and the world. An ideal campus, historic and wireless at the same time, KU is home to one of the top public-university library systems in the nation. Founded in 1865, KU is a designated Carnegie comprehensive doctoral and research university and is one of only 38 public members of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). The University enrolls more than 28,000 students and offers students and faculty opportunities to collaborate in its graduate and professional programs, which include education, public health, medicine, law, and a number of allied social science and humanities disciplines.

Job Description

KU's excellence is a result of the rich tapestry of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds of our faculty, staff, students, and colleagues from across our nation and the globe. At KU, we invest in continuous learning and growth by creating a climate where people engage in respectful dialogue and debate and support each other's success. We foster a culture of care where each person is seen, heard and valued. When people feel a true sense of belonging, we believe they are better able to reach their full potential and achieve remarkable things.

A city of approximately 97,600, Lawrence is located in the rolling hills of eastern Kansas, 35 miles west of the Kansas City metropolitan area and 20 miles east of Topeka, the state capitol. Home to Haskell Indian Nations University as well as KU, Lawrence offers the many cultural opportunities of a university town. Lawrence is a wonderful community filled with endless opportunities for historical explorations, beautiful scenery, incredible arts and entertainment venues, and many popular restaurants. Kansas City International airport, The Plaza, and access to world-renowned attractions are less than an hour away.

Job Duties

50% RESEARCH: Develop and maintain an active research program that is advanced substantially beyond the level of the Ph.D. thesis. It should provide solid evidence that the faculty member is a dedicated scholar whose research will continue to develop in depth and importance throughout their career.

40% TEACHING/ADVISING: Teach up to six credit hours (or the equivalent) of either undergraduate or graduate mathematics per semester. They are expected to take their teaching responsibilities seriously and to strive for excellence in the classroom. Prepare for and attend all class meetings. In case of absence, the VAP must make arrangements for a substitute to teach class. Classes should not be cancelled. Provide instruction throughout the semester, usually 3 hours/week, one day a week. Develop assignments, administer tests, evaluate student work, provide feedback to students, and assign grades. Hold regular office hours for students involved in classes taught. A minimum of three posted office hours each week is required. These office hours should be divided over at least two and preferable three different days. The VAP should be available for reasonable appointments if a student cannot meet during scheduled office hours. Adhere to departmental, college and university policies.

10% SERVICE: Participate in appropriate professional activities, such as serving on panels, co-organizing workshops/conferences, and refereeing or reviewing manuscripts for research journals.

Faculty Code
Faculty members are expected to carry out their responsibilities in accordance with the Faculty Code of Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct, currently viewable at: http://policy.ku.edu/FacultyCodeKULawrence/faculty-code-of-rights

Required Qualifications

Evaluation of the following requirements will be made through: (a) descriptions of research agenda and teaching philosophy in letter of application, (b) record of accomplishments and productivity included in curriculum vitae, and (c) information provided from four professional references.

1. Ph.D., ABD in Mathematics by the start date of appointment (August 18, 2026)
2. Research area in algebra and/or combinatorics
3. Demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching in mathematics as evidenced by teaching philosophy statement and/or reference letter on teaching
4. Demonstrated commitment to excellence in research as evidenced by graduate coursework, dissertation research, publications, and/or externally funded research grants.

Additional Candidate Instruction

A complete online application includes: C.V., cover letter, research and teaching statements, and the names and contact information for four references. In addition, at least four recommendation letters (teaching ability must be addressed in at least one letter) should be submitted electronically at https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/jobs/.

Initial review of applications will begin January 5, 2026 and continue as long as needed to identify a qualified pool.

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and procedures and is the Title IX Coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY. Reports can be submitted by contacting the Title IX Coordinator as provided herein or using the Title IX online report form and complaints can be submitted with the Title IX Coordinator or using the Title IX online complaint form.