Research Associate, University Professor, Academic

Research Associate-Fixed Term

The Department of Media and Information at Michigan State University's College of Communication Arts & Sciences (Com Art Sci ) seeks a postdoctoral fellow to join its faculty, which is consistently ranked among the best in the world for scholarly productivity and teaching. As the first college of communication in the U.S. and the fastest-growing college at MSU, Com Art Sci  is experiencing record enrollments.

The Dean's Postdoctoral Fellowship Initiative is designed to enhance our academic community by welcoming dynamic and innovative scholar-educators who upon successful completion of their postdoctoral fellowship will matriculate to a tenure-track assistant professor position. This two-year fellowship is subject to review after the first year and may begin as early as August 16, 2026.

Research Focus

The Department of Media and Information seeks a candidate whose work advances inclusive excellence that builds and potentially expands the range of perspectives and methodologies in human-computer interaction, human-robot interaction, rural computing, game studies and design, and the relationships between technology and policy, health and wellness, and society.

Postdoctoral Fellowship Expectations

• Prepare for a transition to a tenure-track faculty position within Media and Information.
• Conduct and publish peer-reviewed research or creative works independently or in collaboration with faculty mentors.
• Identify and work with faculty mentors across the department.
• In year 1, teach one course and/or engage in grant writing, outreach, and service activities.

About the Department

The Department of Media and Information bring together faculty from diverse disciplines to advance research in human-computer interaction, human-robot interaction, rural computing, game studies and design, and the relationships between technology, policy, health, and society.

Department faculty collaborate across fields such as communication, information science, media, psychology, sociology, design, and human-computer interaction to explore critical challenges and develop innovative solutions. The department values diverse perspectives and methodologies, supporting research that enhances quality of life for individuals and communities. MI is a member of the iSchools consortium and houses a top-ranked program in game design and development.

Appointment Terms & Compensation

• Nine-month renewable academic year appointment with potential for summer teaching opportunities.
• Salary comparable to a starting Assistant Professor in the department, plus benefits.
• Research and professional funding (e.g., for travel, archives, transcription, student research assistants, etc.).
• One-time relocation allowance.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Doctorate
-Media & Information or related discipline.

Eligible applicants must have earned a PhD in Media & Information, or a related discipline from an accredited university before the start date. The candidate will be evaluated relative to peers at a similar stage in their careers, based on record of high-impact publications in relevant academic outlets, including journals and conference proceedings; (although not required) record of excellence in instruction;

and record of and commitment to inclusive excellence in research-creative activity, instruction, and service.

Attainment of a Ph.D. between 2023 and May 2026.

Candidates must submit the following via MSU's job portal: