Tenure Track Assistant/Associate Professor, Graphic Design Program

About the Role

Tenure-track position in Graphic Design at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor commencing August 2027. This is a nine-month teaching- and research-focused appointment with a typical teaching load of 9 credit hours per semester, consisting of two design studios plus participation on a senior thesis committee.

We seek designers and scholars whose research, creative practice, and teaching explore contemporary conditions of design, with an emphasis on innovation, emerging technologies, inventive pedagogy, and critical engagement—and who are interested in contributing to a collaborative, studio-centered culture. Tenure-track faculty are expected to pursue a clear research agenda or maintain an active program of creative or scholarly work.

About the Graphic Design Program

The Graphic Design (GDES) Program at Auburn University prepares students to practice visual communication in a competitive global environment. Our nationally recognized, NASAD-accredited B.F.A. in Graphic Design emphasizes a systemic approach to design that prepares students to become versatile designers, art directors, and economically viable professionals.

• Hands-on instruction in a professional studio environment that fosters a strong sense of community among students and faculty
• Foundational coursework in drawing, 2D/3D design, and typography
• Upper-level coursework in interactive design, user experience design (UI/UX), motion graphics, brand identity systems, publication design, packaging, illustration, and image-making
• Exposure to the professional design community through exhibitions, symposia, guest lectures by industry leaders, and an internship program providing real-world experience and networking opportunities

About the School of Industrial and Graphic Design (SIGD)

SIGD is situated within Auburn University's College of Architecture, Design and Construction, an interdisciplinary environment that brings together architecture, landscape architecture, environmental design, building science, industrial design, and graphic design. The school supports design education that is experimental, research-driven, practice-informed, and engaged with contemporary social, environmental, and technological questions.

About Auburn University

Auburn University is a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant institution with an "R1" Carnegie classification, combining an exceptional student experience with a sustained commitment to groundbreaking research and public engagement. Located in Auburn, Alabama, a historic college town and one of the state's fastest-growing metropolitan areas, the university offers increasingly diverse cultural and recreational opportunities, with close proximity to Birmingham, Atlanta, and the Gulf Coast.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate courses in graphic design, including advanced and emerging topics
• 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

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• MFA, MDes, or equivalent terminal degree in Graphic Design or a 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
• A forward-thinking and adaptive approach to design education and practice

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
• Strong communication and collaborative skills
• Industry experience or applied design practice is a plus

Skills

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

Benefits

• Life-changing impact through research, instruction, and outreach
• Culture of excellence with a commitment to collaboration and innovation
• Generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance
• Southern charm and vibrant downtown scenes in the Auburn/Opelika area
• Top-ranked schools and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches
• Inclusive environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged