Writing Studies / Communication Studies Joint Hire

To apply:
1. Visit the UMN employment website
2. Select “External Faculty and Staff Applicants”
3. In “keywords” search field, enter 325184

The Department of Writing Studies and the Department of Communication Studies in the College of Liberal Arts invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position to begin fall semester 2019 (08/26/2019). This position is a joint hire between both departments. Tenure home for this position will be in the Department of Writing Studies, though the workload expectations for each department is subject to negotiation, but at least 50% would be in Writing Studies. Appointment will be 100% time over the nine-month academic year (late August to late May). Appointment will be made at the rank of assistant professor, depending on qualifications and experience and consistent with collegiate and University policy.

We seek an outstanding candidate in rhetorical theory regardless of sub-field; however, we have specific interests in digital rhetoric as it relates to business, workplace, organizational, advocacy networks, and entrepreneurial communication. Digital rhetoric could include information/communication design, content/communication management, social media management, or entrepreneurial communication such as digital applications, digital identity, and website writing. These areas overlap undergraduate and graduate curriculum across both Writing Studies and Communication Studies Departments and would address growing interest among undergraduate and graduate students.

Faculty in the Department of Writing Studies and the Department of Communication Studies in the College of Liberal Arts are expected to maintain an active program of scholarly research that includes publication; develop and teach undergraduate and graduate courses; advise students; and contribute service appropriate for the rank of appointment to the department, college, university, and profession.

A Ph.D. or foreign equivalent in Writing Studies, Rhetoric, Technical Communication, Communication or related field is required. Degree must be in hand by August 26, 2019. To be considered, candidates must demonstrate clear potential for academic achievement in scholarly research; have experience teaching rhetoric as well as communication, composition, or technical communication courses; and be willing to participate in service. Promise and/or record of publication and teaching in rhetorical theory and digital rhetoric is preferred.

Candidates will be evaluated according to the overall quality of their academic preparation and scholarly research/profile, evidence of research ability, evidence of commitment to teaching and skills as a teacher, and strength of recommendations. We are most strongly interested in a beginning assistant professor but would also consider an advanced assistant professor.

Two of thirty departments in the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota (https://cla.umn.edu), the Department of Writing Studies and the Department of Communication Studies share an international reputation in rhetorical theory and criticism, digital rhetoric, and workplace communication. The departments have a long history of collaboration on research, teaching, and graduate advising. Graduate students have regularly hosted an annual "Doing Rhetoric" conference, highlighting shared and varied perspectives on rhetorical theory and criticism.

Writing Studies focuses on rhetorical theory and criticism, with expertise in composition and technical and scientific communication. The department offers a B.S. in Technical Writing and Communication, an M.S. in Scientific and Technical Communication, a post baccalaureate certificate in technical communication, and an M.A. and Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Scientific and Technical Communication. Communication Studies focuses on communication practices and processes and is recognized for work in rhetorical theory and criticism, with special emphasis in institutions and organizations associated with political persuasion and public address. Communication Studies offers a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in Communication Studies.

FFI:  http://www.writingstudies.umn.edu
Facebook: Writing Studies, University of Minnesota

FFI: https://cla.umn.edu/comm-studies
Facebook: Communication Studies, University of Minnesota

Applicants must apply online, and priority will be given to completed applications received by October 1, 2018. To be considered for this position, please click on the Apply button on the  and follow the instructions. You will be required to attach a curriculum vitae and a letter of application. You will also need to share the names and contact information of three references. Completed letters of recommendation will be requested after the first review. If references are requested, they may be sent via mail or email to:

Professor Laura Gurak, Search Committee Chair
Department of Writing Studies
214 Nolte Center
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
315 Pillsbury Ave SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Email: gurakl@umn.edu

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.