About this opportunity
Auburn University lists this Tenure Track Assistant/Associate Professor, Graphic Design Program opportunity in auburn, Alabama. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Overview
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 ( 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.
Responsibilities
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
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
Review of applications shall begin 15 January 2027 and continue until the position is filled.
Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
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
Contract Type
Continuing
Why Work at Auburn?
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!
Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.
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Worksite address
auburn, AL, 36831, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.