Assistant Professor of Art, Graphic Design
University, MS, US, 38677
Note for Current UM Employees
Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu
Position Description
The Department of Art & Art History at The University of Mississippi invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Art in the Graphic Design area to begin August 22, 2024. This is a full-time, tenure-track position and requires an MFA in Studio Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Communication Design, or related terminal degree in the field at the time of appointment. The department is looking for an accomplished practicing designer and critically engaged educator to complement the expertise of existing faculty in the area, supporting ongoing curriculum development and contributing innovative approaches and subjects to a vibrant and growing graphic design program. Ideal candidates will possess a strong understanding in both traditional and contemporary design practices with knowledge in emerging media and technologies. Area of expertise may include but are not limited to: Design for Web and Mobile Platforms, Applied UI/UX, Immersive media and AR/VR, Motion Graphics, Informational Graphics, Way-Finding Systems, AI integration, or other related areas of Interactive Design. All Candidates should possess a technical mastery of industry-standard technologies and software, including the Adobe Creative Suite and have a strong foundation in typography and hierarchy.
Candidates will work with undergraduate students in both the BA in Art and the BFA in Art, emphasis in Graphic Design, as well as with graduate students pursuing the MFA in Studio Art with a focus on mentoring students through the development of portfolios in a variety of industry-related fields. The primary responsibilities for this position include sustaining an active creative practice, teaching and curriculum development, student advising, and performing service appropriate to the position including recruitment, facilities management, and participation in shared governance. The Department of Art & Art History offers a BA and BFA in Studio Art, BA in Art History and MFA in Studio Art. The University of Mississippi, which has been recognized by The Chronicle of Higher Education for twelve consecutive years as one of the best colleges in the nation to work for, is located in Oxford, MS, ranked as one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns”.
We recognize the importance of a diverse faculty and a supportive educational and professional environment that affirms the value of cultural diversity. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who are traditionally underrepresented in academia and from all candidates who are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.
More information about the University’s Pathways to Equity: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategic Plan may be found at https://chancellor.olemiss.edu/pathways-to-equity/.
The Equity-in-Action Plan for the College of Liberal Arts may be found at https://dce.olemiss.edu/equity-in-action-plans/college-of-liberal-arts/.
The Department of Art & Art History’s Statement on Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion may be found at https://art.olemiss.edu/diversity-equity-inclusion/.
Position Details
Appointment: 9 Month
Assignment Type: Tenure Track
Application Procedures
Applicants should complete the University’s online application form at https://careers.olemiss.edu/ AND submit a letter of intent, updated Curriculum Vitae, and either a PDF or link to a website consisting of 20 images of your professional design work and a designer statement. Applicants who proceed beyond the initial screening may be asked to submit additional materials. Review of applications will begin January 15, 2024. The position will remain open until an adequate pool has been established. More information about the department can be found at art.olemiss.edu. Please direct inquiries about this position to Professor Tyler Barnes, Chair of the Search Committee (tsbarne1@olemiss.edu).
Minimum Qualifications
This position requires an MFA in Studio Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Communication Design, or related terminal degree in the field at the time of appointment.
Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.
About the University of MS & Oxford, MS
Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.
Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.
Background Check Statement
The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
Nearest Major Market: Oxford Mississippi