My undergrad and masters degree was in materials engineering. All my coursework and lab experience is in materials engineering. During my PhD, I had taken just two courses which did not directly help with my PhD research. My undergrad and masters courses were also not aligned with my PhD research.
My PhD thesis was on using finite element analysis and smoothed particle hydrodynamics to study mechanical damage under extreme conditions. As for credentials: I have 5 publications in applied journals (IF~4).
Now, I was applying for tenure track positions in mechanical engineering department where they want my academic transcripts to be submitted.
My question is in two parts:
- How do I justify my ability to teach and contribute to the mechanical engineering department if my degree and coursework experience was not in that field? My research is however in that field.
- Since my colleagues in the department would be from mechanical engineering background with dedicated coursework experience, would my application be considered seriously for a position in the department? I have been asked to submit my transcripts with my application package. They would know that I lack the coursework.
I understand that noone have been in my peculiar position before. Usually people take necessary courses during their PhD. I got away with not taking them as I could self learn the required basics and was able to apply them successfully to my research work. However that doesn't make me technically thorough and strong in the topics.
Hoping for some insights on how to go about with my faculty position applications in my case.