The Department of Psychology at the University of Virginia invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in developmental psychology. We are seeking an outstanding developmental scientist to join our vibrant research and teaching community and to contribute to our collaborative culture. The appointment begins with the Fall term of 2027, with a target start date of August 10, 2027. The teaching load is three courses per year, and the duties include service to the department, the University, and the profession.
We seek candidates with expertise in computational or formal approaches to cognitive development, particularly those whose research leverages and contributes to advances in artificial intelligence. We are particularly interested in candidates working on the development of language, learning, executive function, or other foundational cognitive capacities. We seek a colleague whose rigorous, quantitative, and forward-looking approach to investigating how minds are constructed pushes the boundaries of how development is studied.
The Department of Psychology has a strong developmental psychology program, and the candidate will be a central member of this program. The candidate will also be encouraged to connect and collaborate with faculty and students in other areas in our department (e.g., quantitative, cognitive, social, systems and behavioral neuroscience) and in other relevant programs and departments in Arts & Sciences (e.g., Linguistics, Neuroscience, Anthropology, Philosophy). Finally, there are natural connections to developmental science with faculty in other schools in the University, including the School of Data Science, the Medical School, and the School of Education and Human Development.
Minimum Qualifications. To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, candidates should hold a Ph.D. by August 10, 2027.
Preferred Qualifications. We are seeking applicants with a Ph.D. in Psychology or a related field (e.g., Cognitive Science) by the position start date. We are looking for a candidate with an exciting research program, a strong publication record in the area, a documented commitment to rigorous and transparent research practices, evidence of pursuing grant funding and a vision for future funding, and a dedication to inclusive mentorship and effective teaching.
Review of applications is expected to begin on October 1, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.
The university will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
Candidates should apply online at Interfolio Please upload the following required documents to your application:
1. Cover letter (2 single-spaced pages maximum) with the following sections (1) an explanation of your interest in and fit for a position focused on computational or formal approaches to cognitive development, highlighting connections to AI if relevant; (2) how your research program will complement and extend ongoing research in the developmental area, Psychology Department, and/or University; (3) your experience relevant to the University’s ambition to cultivate the most vibrant community in higher education in order to prepare students to be leaders in a diverse and globally connected world; (4) complete citations (with DOIs) for up to 3 publications that best reflect your research program; and (5) names, titles, institutions, and email addresses for three academic references. References will only be contacted for candidates whose applications have advanced to a later round.
2. Curriculum Vitae.
3. Research statement ( 3 single-spaced pages maximum), written for well-informed colleagues who may not be familiar with your specific area of expertise, and which (1) synthesizes your most significant research accomplishments to date that are relevant to this position; and (2) explains your vision for your research program at the University of Virginia, including the kinds of questions you anticipate pursuing and why, as well as the methodological tools and approaches you anticipate using.
4. Teaching statement ( 1 single-spaced page maximum) that describes your teaching interests and details your teaching and mentoring experience and philosophy.
**Applications that do not have all the required components will not receive full consideration.**
Questions about this position should be directed to Dr. Vikram Jaswal, chair of the search committee, at jaswal@virginia.edu
Questions about the application process should be directed to Richard Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor at rkh6j@virginia.edu
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment
The University of Virginia offers confidential Dual Career Services to partners of incoming faculty candidates. To learn more, please visit dualcareer.virginia.edu
