Rank Faculty Position in Quantitative Methods, Department of Human Development and Family

Application Instructions

Current Penn State employee or student: complete the internal application through Workday. External applicants: use the Workday link. Remote or hybrid work approval is not guaranteed; see the Notice to Out of State Applicants for more information.

The Penn State Department of Human Development and Family Studies
, located in the College of Health and Human Development, seeks an open-rank, tenure‑track faculty position in quantitative developmental and family systems methods. Candidates should have expertise in measurement, latent variable modeling, or novel data integration approaches. Particular attention will be given to research areas that coincide with one or more of the following:

• Development of novel methods to strengthen measurement and analysis of multi‑system, multi‑scale processes (e.g., models of within‑person change and variability in human development and family processes across the lifespan; multilevel methods that integrate individual and community differences across contexts).
• Methods for large data sets.
• Latent variable modeling.
• Computational models of psychological processes, health decision processes, and human dynamics.
• Advanced longitudinal methodologies to analyze intensive data streams, including mobile sensor data, social media, and ecological momentary assessment data.
• Use of models as measurement instruments.

The selected candidate will contribute to advancing scholarship in quantitative methodology and data science in social and behavioral sciences within the Department, College, and University. Mid‑career or senior candidates should address their potential to serve in a leadership capacity in these areas. Teaching responsibilities include undergraduate and graduate level courses and directing theses and dissertations.

• Earned doctorate in quantitative, developmental, behavioral, social science, or related field prior to beginning at Penn State.
• Clear program of research, strong publication record, and evidence of potential or experience with extramural funding commensurate with rank.
• Evidence of appropriate teaching and mentorship commensurate with rank.

Penn State is a public, land‑grant, research‑intensive university with campuses and facilities throughout Pennsylvania. Founded in 1855, the university has a threefold mission of teaching, research, and public service. The instructional mission includes undergraduate, graduate, professional, and continuing education offered through resident instruction and online delivery. Annual enrollment at its 24 campuses totals more than 100,000 graduate and undergraduate students, making it one of the largest universities in the United States.

As an R1 research institution, Penn State's annual research expenditure exceeds $1 billion. The rich university environment offers unparalleled opportunities for cross‑disciplinary partnerships in education, community outreach, and research. Penn State's University Park campus is located in the town of State College in Centre County, Pennsylvania.

Candidates should complete an online application at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). and upload the following: (a) cover letter (1 page), (b) statement of research interests (2‑3 pages), (c) statement of teaching interests and experiences (1‑2 pages), (d) statement of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (1‑2 pages), (e) list of three professional references, and (f) up to three selected publications or preprints. System limitations allow a total of five documents;

please combine materials as necessary to meet the limit. Review of applications will begin after January 31 2026 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75 % tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging.