Assistant Professor in Media Arts at University of Kentucky for 2025

Job Description

The School of Journalism and Media at the University of Kentucky is hiring for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Media Arts and Studies. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals seeking roles in a vibrant academic setting that emphasizes teaching, research, and innovation. Ideal for candidates who thrive in both scholarly and practical media environments, this role contributes significantly to both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Organization Profile

The University of Kentucky School of Journalism and Media, located in Lexington, KY, is nationally recognized for its excellence in academic scholarship and professional achievement. The School offers B.A. and B.S. degrees in Journalism and Media Arts and Studies, is fully accredited by ACEJMC, and supports award-winning student media such as the Kentucky Kernel, KRNL magazine, and Wildcat News.

The School is part of the College of Communication and Information, which includes two schools and two departments serving over 2,300 undergraduate and 350 graduate students, and supports interdisciplinary master’s and PhD programs.

Job Title:

• Assistant Professor – Media Arts & Studies (School of Journalism and Media)
• Employment Type: Full-Time | Tenure-Track Faculty Position

Department Hiring:

School of Journalism and Media

Position Description:

This teaching position involves:

• Teaching undergraduate and graduate-level courses, including:
  • Introductory courses in communication technologies and society
  • Specialized theoretical and practical media courses aligned with candidate expertise
• Conducting an active and productive research program in media studies
• Mentoring graduate students at the master’s and doctoral levels
• Contributing to the growth of an innovative media curriculum

This is a 9-month tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor level, requiring the candidate to teach two courses per semester while maintaining an active scholarly agenda.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Ph.D. or terminal degree in communication, media, or related field (by date of hire)
• Strong record of teaching excellence and scholarly productivity

Preferred:

• Professional media experience (not required but considered a plus)

Job Location:

Lexington, Kentucky, USA

Scale of Pay:

As per University of Kentucky norms (details discussed during the interview process)

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates may apply by submitting:

• Cover Letter: Indicating interest and relevant qualifications
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Evidence of Teaching Excellence: Attach as “Specific Request 1”
• Contact Information for Three References: References will be contacted only after prior consent

Submit Applications / Inquiries to:
Search Committee Chair: Dr. Zixue Tai
Email: ztai2@uky.edu

Review of applications begins: September 1, 2025
Position start date: January 5, 2026, or August 17, 2026 (based on candidate availability)
Deadline to apply: Open Until Filled

Important Notes:

• This position does not have supervisory responsibilities
• The University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug-Free campus
• We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, encouraging applications from women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and minorities
• All final candidates may be required to pass a background check and/or drug screening

Important Link:

Official Notification: Click Here