UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI is hiring: Assistant/Associate Professor of Media & Co

Assistant/Associate Professor of Media & Communication (AI in Communication)

Location: University of Mississippi, MS 38677

Department: Media & Communication (13159691)

Employee Designation: Regular Full-time (Benefits Eligible)

The Department of Media & Communication at the University of Mississippi School of Journalism and New Media (SJNM) invites applications for an nine-month, tenure-track position at the Assistant or Associate Professor level with a primary focus on AI in communication, beginning August 2026.

We welcome scholars whose work engages AI across communication contexts, including but not limited to generative automated communication, human-AI collaboration, automated content and audience engagement, verification and synthetic media.

This position will help further develop the emerging-technologies focus of our newly launched B.A. in Media & Communication.

The School of Journalism and New Media is an interdisciplinary academic unit and the successful candidate will collaborate with colleagues in Media & Communication, Journalism, and Integrated Marketing Communications programs on teaching, research, and service.

The successful candidate will maintain an active research agenda with regular peer-reviewed publications and presentations.

They will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in person and/or online.

The candidate will also mentor undergraduate and graduate students, supervise theses and capstones, and provide service to the department, school, university, and discipline.

In addition, they will contribute to developing curriculum approaches and elements centered on AI in communication.

Appointment: 9 Month

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in communication or a closely related field (e.g., media studies, information science, HCI, data science with a communication focus) by the start date.
  
  ABD considered.
• Evidence of scholarly potential in AI and communication (publications, works under review, and/or national conference presentations).
• Evidence or clear promise of effective university-level teaching.

Preferred Qualifications

• Peer-reviewed publication record and a plan for steady productivity.
• Experience designing courses that integrate AI tools, methods, and critical perspectives.

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.

Application Procedures

For priority consideration, apply by October 15, 2025.

The position will remain open until filled.

Submit all materials electronically:

• Letter of interest describing your current research agenda, accomplishments, future research goals, and teaching experience, including courses you can offer or develop in AI and emerging technologies, and your plans for collaboration across SJNM programs.
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness (e.g., student evaluations, sample syllabi, assignments or project briefs).
• Names and contact information for at least three references.

Questions may be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Rashad Mammadov, Department of Media & Communication, mammadov@olemiss.edu

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi 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.

With more than 24,000 students, Ole Miss is the state’s largest university and is ranked among the nation’s fastest-growing institutions.

Its 15 academic divisions include a major medical school, nationally recognized schools of accountancy, law and pharmacy, and the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College, renowned for a blend of academic rigor, experiential learning and opportunities for community action.

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.

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

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons.

The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Nearest Major Market: Oxford, Mississippi