After the decline of Shockley Semiconductor Laboratory, Shockley joined the faculty of Stanford University as a professor of engineering. He continued his research in semiconductor physics and taught courses on transistor technology.

During his tenure at Stanford, Shockley continued to publish research papers and mentor students. However, his interests began to shift towards the study of genetics and intelligence.

Shockley became increasingly interested in the relationship between race and intelligence. He began promoting the view that genetic factors were a primary determinant of racial differences in intelligence, a perspective that generated significant controversy and criticism. His views led to public debates and protests on campus.

Shockley actively advocated for eugenic policies, including the voluntary sterilization of individuals with lower IQ scores. These views were widely condemned as racist and scientifically unfounded.

Shockley's controversial views led to increasing isolation from his colleagues and the broader scientific community. He faced criticism from fellow academics, civil rights groups, and the public. Stanford University publicly distanced itself from his views, emphasizing that they did not represent the university's position.

Shockley sued several individuals and organizations for defamation, alleging that they had unfairly characterized his views on race and intelligence. Most of these lawsuits were unsuccessful.