Job Title: Professor of Design

Job Type: Full-time

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Position Overview:

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The Department of Design seeks a dynamic, innovative, and experienced academic to join our faculty as a Professor of Design. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the future of design education and research while mentoring students, contributing to curriculum development, and advancing the department’s mission to foster creativity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary approaches to design. This position offers an opportunity to engage in research, teaching, and community outreach at the intersection of design practice, theory, and technology.

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Key Responsibilities:

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Teaching:

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Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in various design disciplines (such as graphic design, industrial design, interaction design, environmental design, or design theory).

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Develop and deliver engaging, research-informed curriculum that fosters critical thinking and design skills.

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Supervise graduate students’ research, thesis projects, and design portfolios.

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Provide academic advising and mentorship to students, promoting professional development and career readiness.

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Research & Scholarship:

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Conduct original, high-quality research in design and related fields, contributing to the academic community.

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Publish research in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, or other recognized design platforms.

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Engage in collaborative research projects with faculty, industry partners, or other academic institutions.

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Seek out funding opportunities to support design research and initiatives.

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Service & Outreach:

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Contribute to the department’s administrative and service needs, including curriculum development, faculty committees, and student engagement activities.

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Participate in departmental, university, and professional design-related events, workshops, and conferences.

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Build relationships with industry professionals, alumni, and community organizations to enhance the department’s visibility and opportunities for students.

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Qualifications:

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Education:

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A terminal degree (PhD, MFA, or equivalent) in Design or a closely related field.

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Candidates with significant professional experience in the design industry and a Master’s degree may be considered.

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Experience:

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A strong record of teaching experience at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels in a design discipline.

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Evidence of an active, innovative research agenda in design, including publications, projects, or exhibitions.

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A demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse learning environment.

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Skills & Attributes:

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Expertise in design theory, history, and practice, with a focus on contemporary design trends and issues.

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Proficiency in design software, tools, and technologies relevant to the discipline.

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Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.

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Ability to inspire and engage students in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment.

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Preferred Qualifications:

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Experience in interdisciplinary collaboration with other academic departments or external organizations.

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Familiarity with emerging design technologies, such as UX/UI design, 3D modeling, VR/AR, or sustainable design practices.

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A history of involvement in professional design communities or industry partnerships.