Tenure Track Assistant/Associate Professor, Graphic Design Program

The School of Industrial and Graphic Design (SIGD) at Auburn University invites applications for a tenure-track position in Graphic Design at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor (rank/title commensurate with credentials and experience) 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.

Graphic Design at Auburn

The Graphic Design (GDES) Program (http://cadc.auburn.edu/graphicdesign) 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.

GDES students receive hands-on instruction in a professional studio environment that fosters a strong sense of community among students and faculty.  Students establish a foundation in drawing, 2D/3D design, and typography in lower-level coursework.  Foundational skills are then applied and extended in upper-level coursework experiences that include interactive design, user experience design (UI/UX), motion graphics, brand identity systems, publication design, packaging, illustration, and image-making.

The GDES program introduces students to the professional design community by hosting exhibitions, symposia, and guest lectures by industry leaders.  An internship program provides students with 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 - and shares a culture of making, inquiry, and public engagement with other disciplines across the college.

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.

Key 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, 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

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

How to Apply

Combine into one document and upload your Letter of Interest and current Curriculum Vitae under the "Resume Upload" section (maximum files size: 5MB).  All other documents should be uploaded under "Additional Documents."

Required submission materials include:

1. Letter of interest that identifies a clear research/scholarly plan and areas of teaching specialization
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Statement of Teaching Philosophy
4. Outline of Research or Creative Scholarship
5. References: Name, title, address, telephone number, and email address (3 total)
6. PDF Portfolio of professional work, creative practice, and/or research (may include a link to online digital reel for animation or motion graphics)
7. PDF Portfolio of teaching experience, if possible: syllabi and student work (may include a link to an online digital reel for animation or motion graphics)
8. Three to five Student/Teacher/Course Evaluations per course selected from up to three courses if possible

Any communications about this position should be sent to:

Graphic Design Faculty Search

School of Industrial and Graphic Design

207 Wallace Hall

Auburn University

Auburn, AL 36849

Or email Courtney Windham, Search Committee Chair, at ceh0051@auburn.edu

Review of applications shall begin 15 January 2027 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.

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Envision the future of graphic design education and embrace experiementation 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

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence:We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama:The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

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