"ASSISTANT PROFESSOR IN BIO DESIGN IN TEXTILES & FASHION (TENURE-TRACK)"

The Department of Design at UC Davis invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Bio Design with a focus on Textiles and/or Fashion. This position is dedicated to advancing innovative and sustainable practices in textile and fashion design, research, and curriculum. The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate courses—including studio-based design courses—mentor students in both research and creative practice, and pursue a robust creative research agenda that strengthens and contributes to the mission of the Maria Manetti Shrem Institute of Sustainable Design, Fashion and Textiles.

We seek a forward-thinking scholar-practitioner whose interdisciplinary research and creative practice address environmental and social sustainability while advancing innovation through critical methodologies, experimental design strategies, or emerging technologies. Areas of focus may include, but are not limited to: regenerative and alternative materials; bio-based materials and biofabrication; natural dyeing, printing, and sustainable coloration methods; alternative and heritage fibers; biophilic and biomimetic approaches to textiles/fashion; circular and sustainable textiles/ systems such as upcycling, zero-waste, and slow textiles/fashion; and explorations of environmental ethics and social responsibility in fashion and textile design.

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. degree or equivalent terminal degree at the Master’s level in an area relevant to the Department of Design and demonstrate clear potential for excellence in research and creative practice, as evidenced through exhibitions, publications, or innovative projects. A strong portfolio of practice-based creative work is expected, along with evidence of teaching effectiveness in both studio and lecture formats at the undergraduate and/or graduate level. The position requires the ability to collaborate across disciplines, including sciences, humanities, and health fields, and a demonstrated commitment to excellence of inclusion and access in teaching, research, and service. We seek a colleague who will work collegially within the Department of Design and has the potential to assume a leadership role in the development of sustainable textile and fashion design at UC Davis. Appointment commences July 1, 2026.

The UC Davis Department of Design, which includes the UC Davis Design Museum, the California Lighting Technology Center, the Maria Manetti Shrem Institute of Sustainable Design, Fashion and Textiles is the only comprehensive academic design unit in the University of California system, one of the world’s leading public universities. The program offers a research-focused curriculum combining theoretical and humanistic study with innovation and practice.

Candidates begin the application process by registering online at https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07407. Submit a letter of interest, a CV, a brief statement of research plans and vision for the future of sustainable textiles/ fashion design, a brief statement of teaching philosophy along with descriptions of courses taught and/or proposed, images of creative works including examples of student work if available, and the names and contact details for four references. Review of applications begins January 5, 2026 and continues until the position is filled. Questions about the position may be addressed to Prof. Gozde Goncu Berk at ggoncuberk@ucdavis.edu.