Professor
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job OverviewPurdue University is actively seeking faculty to expand its interdisciplinary capacity for research on P-12 mathematical learning and cognition. Building on existing strengths across departments in the Colleges of Education, Health and Human Sciences, and Science, this initiative will advance understanding of the processes and contexts that shape P-12 learners' mathematical understanding, reasoning, problem solving, and positive mathematical dispositions. The faculty hired through this initiative will contribute to theory and empirical research on mathematical learning, reasoning, and cognition, with implications for educational research, practice, and policy. The Colleges of Education, Health and Human Sciences, and Science at Purdue University invite applications for
multiple full professors tojoin the P-12 Mathematical Learning and Cognition Initiative. Job SummaryCLUSTER HIRE: We are seeking innovative and productive scholars at the intersection of multiple fields of expertise (e.g., educational psychology, human development, mathematics education, cognitive science, developmental psychology, neuroscience, mathematical sciences) to join the faculty at Purdue University. Collectively, these scholars will contribute to an interdisciplinary initiative focused on (1) advancing a leading research program on learning, development, and reasoning in the context of mathematics; (2) translating research to the design of interventions, curricular materials, and professional learning experiences; (3) supporting the preparation and professional learning of highly-qualified pre-service and in-service teachers, as well as educators in informal learning spaces, to support mathematics learning; and (4) informing policy and instructional practice relevant to mathematics learning and cognition.
The positions will bring complementary perspectives to the study and support of P-12 mathematical learning. Possible areas of emphasis include developmental learning trajectories; the processes, contexts, strategies, and/or dispositions that shape mathematical learning; instructional supports and interventions; and the processes and contexts that influence the effectiveness in supporting P-12 mathematical learning and cognition.
A successful candidate might hold a joint appointment across departments in two colleges: Educational Studies in the College of Education; Human Development and Family Science in the College of Health and Human Sciences; and/or Mathematics in the College of Science.
Purdue is also home to several centers focused on learning-particularly in the STEM learning fields. The hired faculty will also have the opportunity to affiliate with existing research centers on campus, as appropriate, including: The Center for Advancing the Teaching and Learning of STEM, The Center for Early Learning, the Center for Rural Research, Education, and Outreach, and the Methodology Center at Purdue.
Required QualificationsHold an earned doctorate in Educational Psychology, Human Development and Family Science, Mathematics Education, Learning Sciences, Applied Developmental Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Educational Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, or a related field by the start date.
If seeking a joint appointment in the College of Science, a Master's degree in mathematics is required.
The individual will have an established nationally/internationally recognized and coherent research program, made significant contributions to their field through a range of scholarly accomplishments, obtained extramural funding to support research and innovative practice, and demonstrated leadership in the field.
Demonstrated commitment and ability to successfully mentor doctoral students and junior faculty, as appropriate.
Demonstrated commitment to cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Candidates must meet qualifications applicable to the rank of full professor with tenure.
Preferred QualificationsExperience conducting research in the context of mathematical learning environments, such as classrooms or informal learning spaces such as homes, after-school programs, or museums.
Experience employing quantitative research methods, qualitative methods, and/or mixed-methods research.
Evidence of post-secondary teaching excellence in courses relevant to the candidate's area of expertise and potential departmental appointment(s) within undergraduate and/or graduate programs.
Record of engagement and/or leadership in professional organizations commensurate with that of a full professor.
ResponsibilitiesConducting research and maintaining a strong line of scholarship within a coherent program of research relevant to P-12 Mathematics Learning and Cognition.
Seeking external funding to build a focused research program.
Disseminating results and findings via publications and presentations to local, state, national, and international professional organizations.
Teaching a variety of courses in undergraduate and graduate programs in relevant departments.
Guiding and mentoring doctoral students in their area of expertise, contributing to dissertation committees.
Contributing to and engaging in service to the program, department, college, and profession.
Application InformationReview of complete applications will begin on November 30, 2026, and will continue until the positions are filled. Application materials must be submitted online at: https://careers.purdue.edu/job/Professor/44756-en_US/
A complete application includes:
- A cover letter addressing their qualifications and research program
- A current curriculum vitae
- Name, email, and phone number for 3 references, contacted for finalists
Inquiries about the positions should be directed to Professor David J. Purpura, Search Chair, at purpura@purdue.edu.
A background check is required for employment in these positions.
Starting date: August 16, 2027
