"Assistant Professor of Communication Studies (Video Game Studies)"

Assistant Professor of Communication Studies (Video Game Studies)

The Department of Communication Studies at the University of Rhode Island invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor specializing in video/digital game and communication studies. The appointment will begin in August 2026.

The position is centered on video/digital game studies and communication, aligning with existing courses such as media theory, media advertising, entertainment media research, rhetorical criticism, organizational theory, and research methods. Successful candidates should be versed in theories and concepts connected to game studies and immersive, interactive media, and able to teach across general media theory and practice. Areas of interest may include digital game storytelling, platform studies, science and technology studies, qualitative research in gamers and game companies, emerging media industries, Esports, Human-Machine Communication, Human-Computer Interaction, and representation (race, class, gender, sexuality, ability).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver new courses in communication studies at the undergraduate and possibly graduate level.
• Teach and enhance existing or new course offerings, advise students, develop a scholarly or creative agenda, and perform service.
• Establish and maintain a research program and pursue funding.
• Advise undergraduate students.
• Develop curriculum to shape the major.
• Contribute to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Perform service duties.

Required Qualifications:

1. Ph.D. (or terminal degree) in communication studies or related field with specialization in video/digital game studies. ABD considered if completed by September 1, 2026.
2. Ability to develop and deliver courses in video/digital game studies, communication, media theory, and practice.
3. Ability to develop a scholarly or creative agenda.
4. Proficiency in oral, written communication, and electronic media.
5. Knowledge of digital media related to video games.
6. Ability to work with diverse groups.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Professional experience in video/digital game development, marketing, criticism, or related.
2. Evidence of funding for research/creative work.
3. Experience teaching video/digital game studies.
4. Experience teaching organizational communication, interpersonal communication, rhetoric, research methods, strategic communication.

About the Harrington School of Communication and Media at URI: Offers programs in Communication Studies, Film/Media, Journalism, etc.

Special Instructions to Applicants: Attach Cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, Teaching Philosophy, Research Statement/sample of published work (PDFs). References upon request.

To apply, visit https://jobs.uri.edu/postings/15677