Visiting Assistant Professor

The Ohio State University • Columbus, OH

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About The Position

The Department of Design at The Ohio State University invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor of Design Research, to begin August 15, 2026. This is a full-time, non-tenure-track appointment. The successful candidate will possess expertise in participatory design (also referred to as co-design), generative design research, and social innovation and equity-centered design. We seek a colleague with a participatory mindset who can contribute to advancing design research practices that center people, communities, and complex systems. This faculty member will teach at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and contribute to the Design Research and Development graduate program while supporting broader departmental teaching needs. Experience leading or co-leading design research teams in both industry and academic contexts will be greatly appreciated. Applicants should demonstrate a record of scholarly or creative activity grounded in both academic and professional practice, along with a commitment to student-centered pedagogy and mentorship across diverse student populations. The ideal candidate will also show potential for collaboration across disciplines and engagement with industry, professional communities, and public-facing design initiatives. The Department of Design includes Experiential Media Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, and Visual Communication Design, offering rich opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. The successful candidate may also contribute to collaborative research and creative activity through centers such as the Social Innovation and Sustainability Lab (DESIS Lab), the Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence (CDME), and the Advanced Computing Center for the Arts and Design (ACCAD).

Requirements

• Graduate degree in Design, Systems Design, Cognitive Science, Psychology, Anthropology, or a related field; PhD strongly preferred.
• Minimum of three years of professional experience as a design researcher.
• Minimum of three years of teaching experience at the post-secondary level (may overlap with professional experience).
• Demonstrated expertise in participatory design (co-design), generative design research, and equity-centered design practices.
• Evidence of effectiveness in teaching and mentoring across diverse student populations.
• Demonstrated record of scholarly or creative research activity in both academic and applied contexts.

Nice To Haves

• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: speculative design, service design, strategic design, systems design, community-engaged design, emerging technologies, critical design, transition design, and/or design futures.
• Experience leading or co-leading design research teams in academic and/or industry settings.
• Established network within industry, professional organizations, and design research communities.

Responsibilities

• Teach six courses per academic year (studios and/or seminars) at the undergraduate and graduate levels in design research methods, participatory design, and related areas of specialization.
• Mentor and advise students across undergraduate and graduate programs, supporting their academic, professional, and creative development.
• Contribute to the department’s commitment to inclusive, student-centered teaching practices.
• Maintain an active program of scholarly and/or creative research in design research and related areas.
• Pursue external funding opportunities at national and international levels.
• Engage in collaborative and transdisciplinary research initiatives within and beyond the university.
• Participate in departmental service, including committee work and program support.
• Contribute to graduate student recruitment and retention efforts.
• Engage with professional organizations, industry partners, and broader design communities.
• Support and contribute to the department’s design culture through teaching, scholarship, and service.

Benefits

• Ohio State provides access to a depth and breadth of opportunities and resources.
• Starting your first day, Ohio State offers you a comprehensive benefits package.
• Eligible Ohio State employees receive comprehensive benefits packages, including medical, dental and vision insurance, tuition assistance for employees and their dependents, and state or alternative retirement options with competitive employer contributions.
• Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
• Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
• State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree