Associate/Full Professor of Communication at the University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi invites applicants for a nine-month tenure-track faculty position as Associate or Full Professor of Communication Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences’ School of Media & Communication to begin fall 2025. Those with established track records of research and teaching in the areas of risk, crisis, health and/or medicine are particularly encouraged to apply.

The successful candidate will possess a record of research and teaching that meets school and university standards for associate or full professor. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to graduate education, including chairing and serving on dissertation and thesis committees. The candidate will teach three courses each semester, have a vibrant research agenda, and serve as an academic adviser, as well as perform other school or university service as needed. Candidates will have the opportunity to develop new courses in their areas of expertise, as well as influence the current curriculum.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate courses in Communication Studies.
• Teach graduate courses at the master’s and doctoral levels
• Build and maintain an active, nationally recognized research agenda.
• Engage in student recruitment and advisement.
• Contribute to the mission of the school, college, university, and wider community through campus and professional service.
• Seek external and campus funding when needed and appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications 

A terminal degree (Ph.D.) in Communication or a closely related field is required. Evidence of effective teaching at the college or university level is essential. A strong and productive research agenda is expected, as well as a proven ability to mentor graduate students successfully. The ability to work effectively with diverse groups and populations is crucial.

Preferred Qualifications  

Preferred qualifications include a minimum of ten years of experience mentoring graduate students to successful completion of their Master's and/or Ph.D. programs, at least ten years of effective teaching experience at the university level, a demonstrated ability to secure external funding, and a proven track record of building successful programs through increased enrollment, retention, placement, and other relevant factors.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Review of applications will begin December 20 and will continue until the position is filled. Full consideration will be given to applications received by December 20. Inquiries about the position can be directed to Paul Strait (L.Strait@usm.edu). A completed application should include 1) a cover letter describing applicant strengths and qualifications for the position, 2) a CV, 3) statement of teaching philosophy, 4) a statement of graduate mentoring. Application materials can be uploaded to the HR site found here: https://usm.csod.com/ats/careersite/JobDetails.aspx?id=4419

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu. 

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.

The University of Alabama in Huntsville is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer of minorities/females/veterans/disabled.

Click here to apply.

This institution does not offer benefits to domestic partners.

This institution offers benefits to spouses.

This institution's healthcare plan does not include trans-affirming healthcare coverage for TGE faculty.

This institution provides the following support:

• Dependents have the same access to the healthcare described above
• This institution does not provide support for faculty-parents of TGE youth