Assistant/Associate Professor (Lecturer), Physical Product Design

About the role

The Division of Multi-Disciplinary Design (MDD) is now accepting applications for a full-time assistant or associate professor in design, specializing in physical product design. This is a full-time, 9-month faculty position with an expected start date of July 2026.

Responsibilities

• Teach courses related to product design and innovation to university level students across year levels.
• Guide students in creating innovative and meaningful physical products.
• Work with a range of design tools and processes, including digital tools and physical modeling and visualization.
• Develop and maintain a portfolio showcasing a variety of design projects that demonstrate creativity, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Collaborate with community stakeholders and industry partners to engage students in authentic design challenges.
• Contribute to scholarship and creative activity within the Division of Multi-Disciplinary Design.

Requirements

• A terminal degree or its equivalent in Industrial Design, Product Design, or a related field.
• Excellent communication skills that facilitate discussions and interactions beyond disciplinary boundaries.
• Ability to work with a range of design tools and processes, including digital tools and physical modeling and visualization.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino) and other relevant design tools is essential.
• Demonstrated record of design experience, with a portfolio showcasing a variety of design projects that demonstrate creativity, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Experience practicing design management and strategy, for example leadership of multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Knowledge of design thinking methodologies and user-centered design principles.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and materials selection for product development.

Qualifications

• Ability to span across disciplinary boundaries to see the relationship between making, theory, history, sustainability, and the non-human world.
• Ability to explore and integrate innovative technologies and alternative ways of making and crafting, including familiarity with rapid prototyping techniques and tools using digital fabrication.
• An advanced degree (doctorate).
• Evidence of recognition of teaching and design achievements (e.g., awards).
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulations, such as ISO, ASTM, or UL.
• Demonstrated record of research/creative activities in peer-reviewed exhibits, showcases, publications, etc.
• Experience with curriculum design, assessment, and review.

Skills

• Strong background in the design and development of tangible products, from initial concept to production.
• Deep understanding of human-centered design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to guide students in creating innovative and meaningful physical products.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Flexible schedule.
• Inclusive environment.
• Professional development opportunities.

Pay

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Schedule

The position is a full-time, 9-month faculty position with an expected start date of July 2026.