Assistant Professor of Communication, Tenure Track

The Department of Communication at the University of North Dakota seeks a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Communication focusing on interactive and data journalism. We are seeking applicants who have expertise in interactive and data journalism/storytelling as well as data visualization within diverse social, cultural, political, and global contexts. The successful candidate will be expected to conduct research, pursue extramural grants, and prepare graduates to work successfully in data- and analytics-driven communication and media functions and fields. 

The University of North Dakota made a significant investment in the Department of Communication to revive digital journalism education as part of its strategic initiatives. The Department launched a new B.A. in Journalism program in fall 2024 where its comprehensive curriculum covering community journalism, multimedia reporting and storytelling, data-driven storytelling, and sports journalism and broadcasting is the first of its kind in the State of North Dakota. Moreover, with a historically strong collaborative relationship with media organizations across the state and a prominent journalism alumni base, we are committed to raising the next generation of journalists and digital storytellers who can serve their communities.

The University of North Dakota is supportive of dual-career assistance both within the University and the local community. Please be sure to notify our Recruiting Manager, Hannah Whalen (Hannah.Whalen@UND.edu) right away to explore dual-career opportunities.

Duties & Responsibilities 

Publishing peer-reviewed journal articles and applying for competitive grants on a regular basis will be expected for tenure. Annual teaching load will be 2/1 or 1/2 in the first year of appointment and 2/2 in subsequent years. The successful candidates will be expected to teach undergraduate-level journalism courses face-to-face and online, including but not limited to: Public Affairs Reporting, Interactive and Data Journalism, Data Mining & Analytics for Communication Professionals, and Social Network Analysis & Visualization. These positions would also be expected to teach some graduate-level (M.A. and Ph.D.) courses. Assigned courses will be consistent with the area of expertise. 

All faculty, including the person hired for this position, are expected to contribute service within the department, college, university, and community. The successful applicant will receive an initial contract with an approximate effort distribution of 40% teaching, 50% research, and 10% service. We value diverse perspectives and actively seek applicants committed to the success of our students.

Required Competencies
•    Established capability of conducting and publishing scientific studies
•    Excellent written and oral communication skills, including evidence of the ability to teach, inspire, and mentor students
•    Effective interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, and students
•    Ability and willingness to work with and engage diverse students and colleagues within and outside the Department of         Communication
•    Ability to adapt to current methods of teaching, including online delivery

Minimum Requirements  
•    Ph.D. in Communication or related discipline by 8/16/2025
•    This position is subject to a criminal history records check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. 

Preferred Qualifications  
•    Professional experience in interactive and data journalism
•    Track record of research, teaching, education, and/or experience related to journalism
•    Experience being part of external grant funded team(s) and evidence of applying for and/or obtaining external funding
•    Experience teaching both undergraduate-level and graduate-level courses in a Department of Communication’s or a             Department of Journalism’s curriculum
•    Experience teaching online courses

Minimum Hiring Salary

$68,000 + Dependent on Experience, Annual, Exempt

Work Schedule/Start Date

Position is full-time, benefitted, and exempt. The dates of initial contract are August 16, 2025 – May 15, 2026. Summer teaching may be available but is neither guaranteed nor required.

To Apply

To assure full consideration, applications must be received by September 30, 2024, and include the following materials:

•    Letter of application
•    Curriculum vitae
•    List of at least three references (including contact information)

Position is open until filled. Please note that official transcripts from the highest educational institution must be provided upon hire.

Questions can be directed to the Department Chair, Soojung Kim, at soojung.kim@und.edu.