Tenure Track Assistant/Associate Professor, Graphic Design Program

Auburn University•Auburn, AL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The School of Industrial and Graphic Design (SIGD) at Auburn University is seeking a tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor in Graphic Design, starting August 2027. This role focuses on teaching and research, with a typical load of 9 credit hours per semester, including design studios and senior thesis committee participation. The ideal candidate will be a designer or scholar whose work explores contemporary design conditions, emphasizing innovation, emerging technologies, inventive pedagogy, and critical engagement, contributing to a collaborative, studio-centered culture. Tenure-track faculty are expected to maintain an active research agenda or creative/scholarly work. The Graphic Design (GDES) Program at Auburn offers a NASAD-accredited B.F.A. in Graphic Design, focusing on a systemic approach to prepare students for visual communication careers. The program provides hands-on instruction in a professional studio environment, covering foundational skills in drawing, 2D/3D design, and typography, progressing to interactive design, UI/UX, motion graphics, brand identity, packaging, and illustration. Students are connected with the professional design community through exhibitions, symposia, and guest lectures, and an internship program offers real-world experience. SIGD is part of Auburn University's College of Architecture, Design and Construction, fostering an interdisciplinary environment that supports experimental, research-driven, and practice-informed design education. Auburn University is an R1 Carnegie-classified institution located in Auburn, Alabama, offering a rich cultural and recreational environment.

Requirements

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
Eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time the position is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the proposed term of employment

Nice To Haves

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

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