Description

The Department of Computer Science at Baylor University seeks qualified candidates for the Patterson Endowed Chair position in Cybersecurity. This tenured professor position will begin in August 2027. We look for exceptional candidates with vision who will expand innovative research and teaching that addresses challenging problems in the field of cybersecurity. Applications from all areas within cybersecurity are encouraged. The candidate will have exceptional international research credentials in cybersecurity, a strong track record of securing research funding, and experience leading research initiatives. Excellence in teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels is essential. This pivotal role calls for an established leader who will forge and drive research collaborations inside the department or across the university.

Qualifications

Distinguishing Expectations of the Patterson Endowed Chair

The holder of the Patterson Endowed Chair will be expected to:

• Serve as a visible ambassador for Baylor University nationally and internationally.
• Lead transformative research initiatives aligned with instructional priorities.
• Assist in recruiting outstanding faculty, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars.
• Forster interdisciplinary collaborations across the university.
• Advance Baylor's visibility among federal sponsors and industry partners.
• Contribute to the development of future research centers and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience: A Ph.D. in cybersecurity, or a closely related field, along with a minimum of 10 years of professional experience post Ph.D. degree.
• Research Leadership & Center Creation: A proven track record of visionary leadership. Strong preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated success in leading major research initiatives, centers, institutes, laboratories, or large-scale collaborative programs involving multiple investigators, institutions, and external stakeholders. Experience securing substantial federal, industrial, or foundation support is highly desired.
• Scholarly Excellence: A distinguished record of high-impact scholarship, including nationally or internationally recognized publications and a strong history of securing significant external research funding.
• Teaching & Mentorship: Demonstrated excellence in teaching and mentoring students, postdoctoral scholars, and early-career faculty. A strong record of graduate student placement, research mentorship, and talent development is highly desirable.
• National and International Recognition: Evidence of national or international leadership in the field through major awards, fellow status in professional societies, editorial responsibilities, invited keynote presentations, professional service, or other indicators of scholarly distinction.
• Partnership Development: Demonstrated ability to cultivate productive partnerships with federal agencies, industry, national laboratories, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, or other external stakeholders that enhance research impact and educational opportunities.

Evaluation Criteria

Research Excellence

• Scholarly impact and reputation
• Research vision and innovation
• Record of external funding
• Potential for center or institute leadership

Academic Leadership

• Strategic leadership
• Faculty mentorship
• Interdisciplinary collaboration
• Programmatic development

Educational Impact

• Teaching effectiveness
• Graduate mentoring
• Student success outcomes

Institutional Fit

• Ability to advance Baylor's mission
• Communication and collegiality
• Commitment to Christian higher education

Application Instructions

Required Documents:

- Cover letter

- CV (Curriculum Vitae)

- Statement of research interests

- Statement of teaching interests

- Contact information for at least three professional references

- Academic transcript of highest degree earned (unofficial is accepted)

- Religious Affiliation Form (available in Interfolio)

Optional Documents:

- Publications

Review of applicants will begin on October 15, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Nothing received after December 31, 2026 can be considered.

All applicants will also complete the self-disclosed Religious Affiliation Form (RAF) in Interfolio. Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Greg Speegle at "[redacted]".

Candidates who are outside of the United States and do not have other nonimmigrant visa status will not be sponsored for an H-1B petition.