Assistant professor philosophy of artificial intelligence

Position Overview

The Department of Philosophy at The Ohio State University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor with research specialization in the Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence.

We seek candidates with research expertise in some aspect of this field, which we construe broadly to include the nature of artificial intelligence, the linguistic and mental capacities of artificial systems, and epistemological, ethical, and political issues connected to AI. We also welcome applications from candidates whose research expertise or teaching competence is broad enough to strengthen our department in other areas, including philosophy of mind and language, philosophy of logic and mathematics, philosophy of science, epistemology and metaphysics, value theory, and the history of philosophy. We welcome a variety of approaches in philosophy. This appointment will begin in Autumn 2026.

Performance Objectives

• Develop and maintain a productive research program
• Teach courses at all levels of the undergraduate and graduate philosophy curriculum
• Mentor and advise PhD students
• Participate in the cooperative administration of the department.

Education and Experience Requirements

Required: Minimum requirements for appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor include a PhD in Philosophy or related field awarded prior to the appointment start date, evidence of potential for scholarly productivity, potential to develop into an internationally recognized scholar, potential for high quality teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, ability to provide high quality service to the Department, the institution, and the profession, and a strong potential to attain tenure and advance through the ranks in a timely fashion. A successful applicant must have research expertise in some aspect of this field, which we construe broadly to include the nature of artificial intelligence, the linguistic and mental capacities of artificial systems, and epistemological, ethical, and political issues connected to AI.

Desired: An established record of original peer-reviewed publication and a record of excellence in teaching undergraduate or graduate courses at the college level. We also welcome applications from candidates whose research expertise or teaching competence strengthens our department in other areas of philosophy besides the Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence including philosophy of mind and language, philosophy of logic and mathematics, philosophy of science, epistemology and metaphysics, value theory, and the history of philosophy.

Ohio State provides access to a depth and breadth of opportunities and resources. Starting your first day, Ohio State offers you a comprehensive benefits package.

How to Apply

To be considered, please submit your application electronically via Workday. Application period closes 11/01/2025. Inquiries may be directed to Professor Declan Smithies, the search committee chair, at [email protected].

Application materials submitted in Workday must include:

• Attachment 1: Cover Letter. 1-2 pages, including a brief summary of your academic background and why you are interested in this opportunity.
• Attachment 2: Curriculum Vitae (CV). Detailed overview of your scholarly experience, including your research experience, teaching and mentoring experience, service, funding, and publications.
• Attachment 3: Research Statement. Summary of your past research accomplishments, current research projects, and future research plans.
• Attachment 4: Teaching Dossier. Contains evidence of potential for teaching excellence, which may include a teaching statement, numerical and discursive course evaluations, and a list of courses that you are prepared to teach.
• Attachment 5: Two writing samples. One must connect with some aspect of the philosophy of artificial intelligence, while the other may be in any area of philosophy. Each should be no longer than 30 pages. The two writing samples must be attached as a single file.

All applicants will be asked to provide the names and contact information for three references within 48-72 hours following the submission of application materials.

The College

With more than 80 majors and 100 minors, the College of Arts and Sciences is the academic heart of the university. The Arts and Sciences provides extraordinary opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, blending creativity and analysis to truly be at the forefront of thought. The breadth and depth of knowledge in the college gives students and researchers the critical thinking and adaptability essential for a lifetime of success.

Department Information

The philosophy department currently has 16 tenure-track faculty members. Our research strengths include epistemology and philosophy of mind, the philosophy of logic, mathematics, and science, value theory, and the history of philosophy.

The University

Ohio State is a top-20 public university, and its Ohio State Wexner Medical Center is one of America’s leading academic health centers. Eligible Ohio State employees receive comprehensive benefits packages, including medical, dental and vision insurance, tuition assistance for employees and their dependents, and state or alternative retirement options with competitive employer contributions.

Grounded in Ohio State University’s Shared Values, our university community welcomes differences, encourages open-minded exploration and courageous thinking, and upholds freedom of expression.

The Ohio State University is committed to enhancing academic excellence. Recruiting, supporting, and retaining faculty of the highest caliber is a core component of this commitment. The Office of Academic Affairs (OAA) has established central resources to focus on offering support to new and prospective faculty and their loved ones. Service offerings include dual career partner consultation, potential employer and/or employment opportunity identification, consultation and resources related to relocation, as well as identifying opportunities to engage on campus and in the surrounding community. While employment opportunities are not guaranteed, resources and consultation are available. More information about dual career and faculty recruitment can be found here.

In addition to being responsive to dual-career opportunities, we strongly promote work-life balance to support our community members through a suite of institutionalized policies. Ohio State is a member of the Michigan, Ohio, Western Pennsylvania & West Virginia HERC.

Located in Ohio’s capital city, Ohio State’s Columbus campus is near the center of a rapidly growing and vibrant metropolitan area with a population of over 1.5 million. The area offers a wide range of affordable housing, many cultural and recreational opportunities, excellent schools, and a strong economy based on government as well as service, transportation, and technology industries. Additional information about the Columbus area is available here. Beyond its Columbus campus, Ohio State has four regional campuses including Ohio State Lima, Ohio State Mansfield, Ohio State Marion, and Ohio State Newark, in addition to the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) Wooster Campus, which houses Ohio State ATI.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. Additionally, there may be further requirements specific to the college or unit, which could include drug and health screenings, as well as faculty misconduct checks depending on the rank of the position.