Assistant Professor - Studies

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Job Description:

The Department of Communication Studies seeks a scholar-artist for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position, beginning August 2027. We are looking for an innovative maker and theorist to conduct high-quality research—both written and staged—teach undergraduate and graduate courses, and actively mentor students in original arts-based scholarship.  As our department is dedicated to the ongoing evolution and methodological growth of the field of performance studies, we seek candidates actively engaged in arts-based research who will make substantive use of our experimental performance laboratory, the Hop Kins Black Box theatre.

The successful candidate will view performance not merely as an object of study, but as a primary methodology and way of knowing. We welcome interpretations of  performance studies  and strongly encourage applications from scholars whose backgrounds may bridge Communication Studies, Theatre, and Interdisciplinary Arts, provided they are committed to experimental, research-driven performance, and to utilizing their hands-on performance experience to drive rigorous academic publication and create original performances in the Hop Kins Black Box theatre.

** Minimum Qualifications
*** A Ph.D. in Performance Studies, Communication, Theatre, or a closely related discipline (by the time of appointment).
* A demonstrated, active agenda of arts-based research and creative practice.
* Research credentials commensurate with a Comprehensive Doctoral University.
* Evidence of excellence in teaching.
** Preferred Qualifications
** We seek a performance scholar-practitioner with a strong publication and production record (or clear potential) whose work complements existing faculty strengths. The ideal candidate will have experience and a deep commitment to working within a performance laboratory setting and mentoring students in original, devised, or experimental performance making.

We are particularly interested in applicants utilizing practice-as-research and arts-based methodologies. Areas of topical interest are open, but we especially welcome candidates whose work bridges critical performance studies with theatrical practice, which may include:
* Devised, experimental, and ensemble-based theatre
* Applied theatre, community engagement, and social practice
* Experimental directing and dramaturgy
* Live art, intermediality, and multimedia performance
* Site-specific performance, spatial practices, and public memory
* Digital, algorithmic, and virtual performance spaces
* The performance of identity, embodiment, and power (including intersectional, queer, or decolonial frameworks)  
** Salary
* * Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.  
** Application Timeline
** Application review will begin November 12, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.## Additional

Job Description:

## Special Instructions:

Before uploading, applicants should assemble all documents into one PDF file in the following order:  
1. Cover Letter:
Addressing your experience and dedication to both written research and arts-based creative practice, teaching, and service.  
2. Curriculum Vitae.  
3. Description of Research Program: (Limit to 2 pages). Please explicitly address how you envision utilizing the Hop Kins Black Box theatre for your original performance works.  
4. Sample of Scholarly Writing.  
5. Portfolio of Creative Scholarship:
Evidence of arts-based research, performance practice, or theatrical creation (e.g., links to video samples, prompt books, production photos, or critical reviews).  6. Evidence of Teaching Excellence: (Limit to 2 pages).  7. References: A list of the names, titles, addresses, and contact information for three references who may be asked to provide letters of recommendation after the initial review.  8. Job Specification:
The Department of Communication Studies is hiring for two assistant professors of performance studies this year; this position is 100% housed in Communication Studies. Any candidates wishing to be considered for both positions must apply to each position independently and should indicate in writing that they are willing to be considered for both positions.
Applicants may also attach copies of transcripts to their applications; original transcripts are required prior to hire.
Please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Travis Brisini (tbrisini) with questions regarding the status of your application or salary ranges.