Assistant Professor of Communication Studies - Technology & Communication (26/27)

CSU Careers•San Luis, CA

4d•$90,276 - $98,244

About The Position

The Department of Communication Studies at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor specializing in critical and/or rhetorical approaches to technology and communication, to begin August 17, 2026. We seek a scholar whose research and teaching examine how communication, technology, and design intersect with social, ethical, political, and cultural concerns. Secondary interests or teaching strengths in science and/or environmental communication are also desirable to support high-demand areas in our curriculum. This position is part of an innovation and entrepreneurship university cluster hire. Successful candidates are expected to actively engage in transdisciplinary initiatives related to innovation and/or entrepreneurship and direct collaboration with the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) to further develop vibrant academic and co-curricular programs. We especially welcome candidates whose work engages areas such as digital humanities, algorithmic culture, bias and ethics in communication technologies, digital rhetoric and culture, AI and automation, and the social, environmental, and health-related impacts of communication technologies. Areas of specialization (AOS) may include (but are not limited to) critical and/ or rhetorical Approaches to: Technology, communication, and cultures of innovation and tech industries Human–AI interaction, meaning-making, and agency Ethics, bias, and justice in digital and algorithmic systems Communication design, UX/UI, and interface and information design Environmental, sustainability, health, and medicine dimensions of technology and communication Science and/or environmental communication through technology platforms The successful candidate’s teaching responsibilities will include: Media Criticism or Rhetorical Criticism, which are situated as upper-level methods courses. Upper-division electives aligned with the candidate’s expertise in areas such as technology and human communication, critical cultural studies, rhetoric of science, technology, and medicine, science communication, and/or environmental communication. Candidates may also have the opportunity to propose new courses aligned with the department’s curriculum and their areas of expertise. 200-level courses, including rhetorical studies, communication theory, or applied argumentation. A 400-level Senior Seminar and Senior Project course for graduating majors. Introductory communication courses, such as our orientation (e.g., COMS 100) or public speaking related courses. Non-instructional duties will include: Engaging in research and scholarship related to candidate’s area of expertise. Engaging in service and academic advising/mentorship of undergraduate students. Advising students’ extracurricular activities, including, but not limited to student clubs. Although Cal Poly is primarily a teaching university, our faculty are expected to balance teaching with an active program of research/professional development (including publication), student supervision and advising, and participation in service activities at the department and college/university level. The typical teaching load is 12 units per semester, with a reduction in course load in each of the first two years to help new faculty establish an active program of research and professional development. Subject to further planning and approval, Cal Poly anticipates a possible transition to semester-based year-round operations (YRO).  Under YRO, full-time academic year faculty may be assigned to teach in two consecutive semesters (Fall/Spring, Spring/Summer, or Summer/Fall) out of the three semesters offered annually. The two-semester sequence will constitute the regular academic year appointment. Faculty may also be eligible to teach in the third semester for additional compensation, subject to departmental needs and University policy.

Requirements

A Ph.D. in Communication Studies or a closely related field required. If ABD, Ph.D. must be conferred before August 1, 2026.
Demonstrated university teaching experience.
Graduate-level coursework relevant to the instructional assignment is required as the minimum academic preparation.
Record of scholarship in technology and communication using critical and/or rhetorical approaches.
Evidence of potential for scholarly and/or creative achievement in AOS.
Demonstrated commitment to educational equity, academic and inclusive excellence, and student success in their scholarship/creative activities, teaching, and/or service.
Demonstrated proficiency in written and oral use of the English language is required.
Due to CSU policies, the person hired must reside in the state of California at the position start date and for the entirety of the appointment.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated undergraduate teaching experience in critical and/or rhetorical approaches related to technology and communication as an instructor of record or teaching assistant.
Potential for grant development in areas related to the AOS.
Willingness to participate in interdisciplinary programs overlapping with AOS, including course development and possible program curriculum development.
Willingness to develop courses in AOS in various modalities.
Demonstrated experience and commitment to student-centered learning and teaching.
Demonstrated ability to collaboratively work in multidisciplinary settings.
Demonstrated experience working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Preference will also be given to those with relevant work experience and those who bring professional capabilities.

Responsibilities

Engaging in research and scholarship related to candidate’s area of expertise.
Engaging in service and academic advising/mentorship of undergraduate students.
Advising students’ extracurricular activities, including, but not limited to student clubs.
Teaching responsibilities will include: Media Criticism or Rhetorical Criticism, which are situated as upper-level methods courses.
Upper-division electives aligned with the candidate’s expertise in areas such as technology and human communication, critical cultural studies, rhetoric of science, technology, and medicine, science communication, and/or environmental communication.
Candidates may also have the opportunity to propose new courses aligned with the department’s curriculum and their areas of expertise.
200-level courses, including rhetorical studies, communication theory, or applied argumentation.
A 400-level Senior Seminar and Senior Project course for graduating majors.
Introductory communication courses, such as our orientation (e.g., COMS 100) or public speaking related courses.

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