Assistant or Associate Professor of Graphic Design (Tenure Track) at Design Observer

The School of Industrial and Graphic Design at Auburn University invites candidates to apply for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor (rank/title commensurate with credentials and experience) in the Graphic Design Program commencing August 2026.

We seek a dynamic, forward-thinking designer and educator whose research/creative scholarship and teaching explore the evolving landscape of design, with an emphasis on design innovation, emerging technologies, and curriculum evolution. This position plays a key role in shaping the future of our design program through strategic curriculum development and creative leadership.

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Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate courses in graphic design, including advanced and emerging-topic courses at an R1 University
• The typical teaching load is 9 credit hours per semester – consisting of two design studios plus participation on a senior thesis committee
• Contribute to the revision and innovation of curriculum to address future-facing design practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technological integration
• Conduct scholarly, creative or professional research in design innovation, future-focused design education, or adaptive/experimental design methodologies
• Engage in school, college, and university service, including participation in committees, student reviews, and outreach initiatives
• Foster a collaborative and creatively adaptive learning environment
• Engage in Auburn University’s land-grant mission
  
  

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The Ideal Candidate Will

• Envision the future of graphic design education and embrace experimentation in pedagogy and practice
• Demonstrate a creative and innovative mindset that bridges traditional and emerging forms of design
• Be comfortable navigating evolving design tools, platforms, and cultural shifts in communication
• Inspire students to think critically and ethically about the role of design in society
• Contribute to a collaborative academic culture that values mentorship, experimentation, and adaptability
  
  

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Minimum Qualifications

• MFA, MDes, or equivalent terminal degree in Graphic Design or closely related field at the time employment begins
• A record of, or strong potential for, creative research or scholarly activity in design innovation or related areas
• Demonstrated teaching effectiveness at the university level
• Strong communication and collaborative skills
• A forward-thinking and adaptive approach to design education and practice
  
  

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Desired Qualifications

• Experience integrating emerging technologies (e.g., AR/VR/XR, AI, data visualization, interaction design, speculative design, design futures, biodesign, and systems design) into design curriculum
• Experience with the design of digital worlds and 3D environments
• Experience with curriculum development or program revision
• Interest in transdisciplinary teaching or collaboration across academic units
• Industry experience or applied design practice is a plus
  
  

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Required Submission Materials Include

• A letter of interest that identifies an area of teaching specialization and scholarly plan
• A curriculum vitae
• A statement of teaching philosophy
• Names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of three references
• A pdf with 20 examples of professional work, creative work, and/or research (pdf, which may include a link to an online digital reel for animation or motion graphics)
• A pdf with examples of prior teaching experience if possible (pdf, which may include a link to an online digital reel for animation or motion graphics)
• Three to five Student/Teacher/Course Evaluations per course selected from up to three courses if possible
  
  

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Review of applications shall begin 15 January 2026 and continue until the position is filled. The candidate selected for this position must meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time this position is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the proposed term of employment.