Syracuse University is currently on the lookout for an Assistant Professor specializing in Industrial and Interaction Design. This tenure track position requires the individual to possess a strong background in the field of Industrial/Interaction design, along with the ability to teach relevant courses in programs such as Design Studies. Candidates should be actively engaged in building a national reputation for excellence in research, teaching, and service, with potential for securing external funding. Syracuse University values diversity and inclusion, offering a vibrant community for educators and scholars dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design education and research.
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Job Description
Design Studies at Syracuse University
The job description for the Assistant Professor position in Design at Syracuse University includes a tenure track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor in the Design Studies program. The successful candidate is expected to have skills and expertise in the field of Industrial/Interaction design and be capable of teaching relevant courses to other programs. The goal is for the candidate to build a national reputation for excellence through their research and teaching. Teaching responsibilities will include both graduate and undergraduate courses. Applicants with a PhD are preferred, and a desire for equity and inclusion is highly valued. The review of applicant materials will be conducted on an ongoing basis.
Design Studies at Syracuse University
Overview of Design Studies program
The Design Studies program at Syracuse University is an interdisciplinary program that explores the intersections of design practices and theory across various disciplines. It offers students a comprehensive education in design, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Interdisciplinary approach
The program takes an interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to explore design within the context of diverse fields such as architecture, art, business, engineering, and human-computer interaction. This approach encourages creativity, collaboration, and innovation.
Importance of Industrial/Interaction design
Industrial and Interaction design play a crucial role in the Design Studies program. These fields focus on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing products, systems, and experiences that enhance the interaction between users and their environment. Industrial/Interaction design has a significant impact on various industries, including technology, healthcare, transportation, and consumer products.
Courses offered in the program
The Design Studies program offers a wide range of courses that cover various aspects of design, including design thinking, user experience design, product design, design research methods, and design for sustainability. These courses provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their chosen design field.
Faculty expertise in the field
The faculty members in the Design Studies program are accomplished professionals with expertise in Industrial/Interaction design. They bring extensive industry experience and scholarly research to the classroom, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. Faculty members actively engage in design research and contribute to the advancement of the field.
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Tenure track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor
Position requirements and responsibilities
The tenure track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor in the Design Studies program comes with specific requirements and responsibilities. The successful candidate will be expected to conduct research, teach courses, and provide service to the university and the design community. The position requires a strong commitment to academic excellence and the ability to contribute to the advancement of the field through research and teaching.
Expectations for research, teaching, and service
The Assistant Professor is expected to have a research agenda in the design fields, with a focus on industrial, product, interaction, or user experience design. They should actively pursue research opportunities, seek external funding, and publish their findings in reputable conferences and journals. Additionally, the Assistant Professor will teach graduate and undergraduate courses, develop curriculum, engage in student mentoring, and participate in academic service activities such as committee work.
Opportunities for career advancement
Working as an Assistant Professor in the Design Studies program offers opportunities for career advancement. As the candidate builds a national reputation for excellence in research, teaching, and service, they have the potential to be promoted to higher ranks within the university. The tenure track appointment provides job security and benefits, ensuring stability and support for advancing one’s career in academia.
Skills and expertise in Industrial/Interaction design
Definition and scope of Industrial/Interaction design
Industrial/Interaction design is a field that focuses on the creation of products, systems, and experiences that improve people’s lives. It involves the use of technical and creative skills to design functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions. Industrial design primarily deals with physical products, while Interaction design focuses on the digital aspects of user experience.
Required technical and creative skills
Professionals in Industrial/Interaction design need to possess a range of technical and creative skills. Technical skills may include proficiency in design software, prototyping, manufacturing processes, and materials selection. Creative skills involve problem-solving, visual communication, aesthetic sensibility, and empathy towards users.
Examples of projects and applications
Industrial/Interaction design encompasses a wide range of projects and applications. Examples include designing consumer electronics, furniture, medical devices, transportation systems, interfaces for digital products, and immersive experiences. Designers in this field work collaboratively with engineers, marketers, and other professionals to create innovative and user-centered solutions.
Emerging trends in the field
The field of Industrial/Interaction design is constantly evolving, and it is important for professionals to stay updated with emerging trends. Some current trends include the integration of sustainable design practices, the rise of augmented reality and virtual reality interfaces, and the increasing emphasis on designing inclusive and accessible experiences.
Teaching courses relevant to other programs
Overview of other programs at Syracuse University
Syracuse University offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, arts, and social sciences. The Design Studies program seeks to collaborate with these programs to offer innovative and interdisciplinary learning experiences for students.
Collaborative opportunities with different departments
Teaching courses relevant to other programs provides opportunities for collaboration with faculty members from different departments. These collaborations can lead to interdisciplinary research projects, joint courses, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise, enriching the educational experience for students.
Integration of Industrial/Interaction design concepts
Teaching courses relevant to other programs involves integrating Industrial/Interaction design concepts into the curriculum of those programs. This integration allows students to develop a holistic understanding of design and its applications in various fields. It also encourages students to think critically about the impact of design on society.
Benefits of interdisciplinary education
Interdisciplinary education offers numerous benefits to students. It helps them develop a broader perspective, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively with professionals from different fields. It also fosters innovation and encourages the exploration of new ideas and approaches to problem-solving.
Building a national reputation for excellence
Importance of reputation in academia
Building a national reputation for excellence is highly valued in academia. A strong reputation demonstrates expertise, credibility, and recognition in the field. It opens doors for collaborations, research opportunities, and grants. A reputable faculty member also attracts high-quality students and contributes to the overall prestige of the institution.
Strategies for building a national reputation
To build a national reputation for excellence, faculty members need to engage in activities that contribute to their field. These activities may include publishing research and scholarly articles in prestigious journals, presenting at conferences and workshops, organizing industry collaborations, and serving as reviewers for academic publications.
Publishing research and scholarly articles
Publishing research and scholarly articles is a crucial step towards building a national reputation. It allows faculty members to share their findings, insights, and innovative approaches with the academic community. Publications in reputable journals enhance visibility and credibility in the field.
Presenting at conferences and workshops
Presenting at conferences and workshops provides an opportunity to showcase research and network with other professionals in the field. It offers a platform to share ideas, receive feedback, and gain recognition for contributions to the field. Conference presentations can lead to collaborations and invitations to contribute to special issues or edited volumes.
Collaborating with industry professionals
Collaborating with industry professionals is another effective strategy for building a national reputation. Industry partnerships allow faculty members to apply their expertise to real-world challenges and contribute to the development of innovative solutions. These collaborations also provide opportunities for funding, access to resources, and exposure to industry networks.
Expected to teach graduate and undergraduate courses
Teaching methods and pedagogy
As an Assistant Professor in the Design Studies program, the successful candidate will be responsible for teaching both graduate and undergraduate courses. The teaching methods and pedagogy employed should promote active learning, critical thinking, and practical application of design principles. Hands-on projects, group work, presentations, and critiques are often utilized to engage students in the learning process.
Course development and curriculum design
The Assistant Professor will contribute to course development and curriculum design in the Design Studies program. This involves creating syllabi, selecting appropriate course materials, and integrating industry best practices and emerging trends into the curriculum. The goal is to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for their future careers.
Evaluation and assessment techniques
Evaluation and assessment techniques are essential for measuring student progress and ensuring learning outcomes are met. The Assistant Professor will develop and implement assessment methods such as exams, projects, presentations, and portfolio reviews. Constructive feedback and guidance will be provided to help students improve their skills and knowledge.
Engaging students in hands-on projects
Hands-on projects are an integral part of design education. The Assistant Professor will engage students in hands-on projects that simulate real-world design challenges. This experiential learning approach allows students to apply design principles, develop problem-solving skills, and gain practical experience.
Mentoring and advising students
Mentoring and advising students is an important aspect of the Assistant Professor’s role. They will provide guidance and support to students, helping them navigate their academic journey and explore their career options. Mentoring may involve assisting with research projects, internships, and connecting students with industry professionals and alumni.
Advancing a research agenda in design fields
Importance of research in design
Research plays a crucial role in advancing the field of design. It allows for the exploration of new ideas, the development of innovative solutions, and the understanding of design’s impact on society. Research in design also contributes to the body of knowledge and informs best practices in the field.
Identifying research topics and objectives
The Assistant Professor will be responsible for identifying research topics and objectives that align with their expertise and the goals of the Design Studies program. This may involve conducting literature reviews, observing industry trends, and engaging in discussions with colleagues and professionals in the field.
Conducting experiments and surveys
Conducting experiments and surveys is a common research method in design. The Assistant Professor may design and conduct experiments to gather data and test hypotheses related to their research topics. Surveys and interviews may also be conducted to gather insights and opinions from users and stakeholders.
Analyzing data and drawing conclusions
Data analysis is a critical step in the research process. The Assistant Professor will be responsible for analyzing collected data using appropriate statistical and qualitative analysis methods. Data analysis will help to draw conclusions, identify patterns and trends, and support research findings.
Publishing research findings
Publishing research findings is an essential part of advancing a research agenda in design. The Assistant Professor will be encouraged to disseminate their research through scholarly journals, conference proceedings, and other appropriate platforms. Publishing research findings contributes to the knowledge base of the field and allows for the sharing of insights and contributions with the wider academic community.
Preferred qualifications: PhD
Benefits of having a PhD in the field
Candidates with a PhD in Industrial/Interaction design or a related field have several benefits. A PhD indicates a high level of expertise and in-depth knowledge in the discipline. It also provides individuals with research training and experience, which are valuable in conducting rigorous research and making scholarly contributions to the field.
Credibility and expertise in academia
Having a PhD enhances credibility and expertise in academia. It demonstrates a commitment to rigorous scholarship and mastery of the subject matter. PhD holders are often seen as authorities in their field, which can lead to increased opportunities for collaboration, publications, and invitations to speak at conferences and workshops.
Opportunities for research funding
A PhD can open doors to various research funding opportunities. Many funding agencies prioritize funding proposals from individuals with advanced degrees, as they are considered more likely to produce high-quality research. Gaining access to research funding can support research initiatives, enable the purchase of equipment and materials, and provide financial support for research assistants, travel, and conference attendance.
Advancement in academic career
Having a PhD is often a prerequisite for career advancement in academia. Universities typically require a PhD for tenure track positions and higher-ranking faculty positions. A PhD can provide a competitive edge in the job market and increase the likelihood of securing tenure and promotions.
Review of applicant materials
Application process and requirements
The application process for the Assistant Professor position in Design Studies at Syracuse University involves submitting relevant materials, such as a curriculum vitae (CV), a cover letter, a portfolio of work (if applicable), and contact information for references. The application package should highlight the candidate’s qualifications, research interests, teaching experience, and commitment to equity and inclusion.
Selection criteria for the position
The selection criteria for the Assistant Professor position in Design Studies include qualifications such as expertise in Industrial/Interaction design, the ability to teach courses relevant to other programs, a desire for equity and inclusion, and a demonstrated potential for building a national reputation for excellence through research, teaching, and service. The review committee will evaluate each applicant based on these criteria.
Timeline for review and hiring
The review of applicant materials will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. However, candidates who submit their applications by October 1, 2023, will be given priority consideration. After the initial review, selected candidates may be invited for interviews, presentations, and campus visits. The hiring timeline will depend on the number of qualified applicants and the availability of resources.
Importance of early application
Early application is highly encouraged for the Assistant Professor position in Design Studies. Submitting an application early ensures priority consideration and increases the likelihood of being selected for further evaluation. It also allows the review committee to start the review process promptly and potentially expedite the hiring process.
