Applications are invited for appointment as Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in AI-enabled Design and Building Technology in the Department of Architecture (Ref.: 536301), to commence on September 1, 2026 or January 1, 2027, on a three-year fixed-term basis, with the possibility of renewal and consideration for tenure before the expiry of a second three-year fixed-term contract.
The Department of Architecture (DoA) is internationally recognised as one of the world's best architectural schools. The DoA sees design thinking central of the Department’s value ecology, AI as its new frontier, while building technology as its foundation. It prides itself on providing an active and dynamic research environment. The scholars and professionals who constitute the teaching staff of the Department represent a diversity of research interests. The scale and breadth of case studies in the region offers a potential portfolio of innovative research projects and a laboratory structure which in turn provides opportunities to pool efforts, cross disciplinary boundaries and develop forums for exchange. The Department offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in an intense and demanding environment, where staff members take an active part in shaping the Department's culture through both teaching and administrative responsibilities. The promising and energetic community of students come from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Asia, and across the world. Information about the Department can be obtained at http://arch.hku.hk.
Applicants should possess a postgraduate and professional degree in the relevant field. Preference will be given to those holding a Ph.D. degree in Architecture, Design and Technology, or an affiliated discipline, and to those who have experience in teaching and practicing in a multidisciplinary context. They should demonstrate an established record of teaching and research in advanced technology in design, and creative and interactive technologies, specialising in the intersection of artificial intelligence, Extended Reality (XR), computational design, adaptive digital fabrication and sustainable material technologies.
Applicants should also have experience in developing projects on how AI and advanced technology can augment creativity and sociability as well as the ability to develop innovative computational tools, processes and theories to explore technology’s interface with and impact on human perception and experience and applying these in creative, socially meaningful responses to challenging design problems. Candidates with a Ph.D. in design research, design practice, history and theory of design and design science, history and theory of architecture with a focus on material science and culture, or material futures and design technologies, are welcome to apply. As the Department moves towards strengthening international links with academic institutions and innovators in design throughout Asia and the world, applicants who have a record of building such partnerships are encouraged to apply. Strong writing skills, as evidenced through an increasing track record of peer-reviewed publications, and grant-writing experience are also desirable, as staff are expected to pursue funding opportunities to advance their research.
The appointee will conduct research, teach postgraduate and undergraduate courses, and lead a research team on related studies. The primary responsibility is to support teaching and curriculum development for the Design+ program, with an emphasis on integrating latest computational technologies into project design and delivery processes and on engaging with creative industries. Teaching assignments may include studios, lecture courses, or seminars in areas such as design, history and theory of design and technology, design thinking, AI, computation, XR applications, robotic and digital fabrication, and material futures.
For enquiries about the post, please write to Professor Eunice Seng, Head of the Department of Architecture (e-mail: applyarc@hku.hk).
A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. At current rates, salaries tax does not exceed 15% of gross income. The appointment will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of basic salary. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable.
The University only accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date C.V., a cover letter, a one-page teaching statement, a one-page statement on advancing diversity and inclusion, the contact information of three senior academics who are familiar with the applicant's teaching background and experience, and a research and teaching portfolio (less than 20MB, 20 pages maximum). Review of applications will commence as soon as possible and continue until 31 July 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
