Clinical Assistant Professor in Development and Learning in Elementary Education

Appointment Type: Fixed Term Faculty

Vacancy ID: FAC0006040

Full-time/Part-time: Full-Time Permanent

Hours per week: 40

FTE: 1

Position Location: North Carolina, US

Hiring Range: Dependent on qualifications

Proposed Start Date: 07/01/2027

Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

The UNC School of Education, one of the longest-standing professional schools at the nation’s first public university, ranks among the top schools of education in the U.S. and offers a full range of degree programs, from undergraduate to doctorate; forward-thinking certificate and licensure programs; and in-person, online, and HyFlex offerings. Faculty members generate knowledge across a number of fields, including human development, educational technology and entrepreneurship, teaching and learning, school counseling, school psychology, administration, educational policy and leadership, and more; they also prepare students to become the most highly effective educators to lead in classrooms, schools, districts and beyond, as well as future scholars and researchers. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Carolina), established in 1793 as the first public university in the nation, is a doctoral-granting institution situated in the beautiful college town of Chapel Hill, NC. Ranked fifth among public institutions by US News & World Report, and one of the original public ivy schools, Carolina has earned a reputation as one of the best universities in the world. We pride ourselves on a strong, diverse student body, unparalleled academic opportunities, and a value unmatched by any public university in the nation. The Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education represents a significant expansion of the School's teacher preparation programs, strengthening Carolina's role in preparing the next generation of elementary educators through a fully undergraduate, practice-focused degree.

The School of Education is an academic unit reporting to the Provost. The School is a major center of research, teaching, and public service within the State of North Carolina, the nation, and the world. The School offers a full range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The mission of the School of Education is to conduct research, and generate basic and applied knowledge about human development, educational technology and entrepreneurship, teaching and learning, school counseling, school psychology, administration, as well as educational policy and leadership; prepare leaders in the profession of education by conducting outstanding research, teaching, and service; and assist in the development of strong and effective public schools in North Carolina. In order to fulfill its mission, the School is organized into three academic divisions: (1) Culture, Curriculum, & Teacher Education (CCATE), (2) Learning, Development & Psychological Sciences (LDPS), and (3) Educational Policy, Organization, & Leadership (EPOL).

Position Summary

The School of Education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill seeks a scholar with professional experience in elementary teacher education and human development for an appointment at the rank of Clinical Assistant Professor starting July 1, 2027. The position will contribute to the school's Bachelor of Arts program in Elementary Education as well as its undergraduate major in Human Development and Family Studies. The appointment is full-time for a three-year term, with the potential to renew for additional terms.

This clinical faculty position is primarily teaching-focused and undergraduate-centered. Responsibilities include:

• Teaching undergraduate courses in the BA in Elementary Education and Human Development and Family Science programs, with a focus on elementary classroom contexts, child and adolescent development, and applications of research in educational psychology or learning sciences to classroom settings.
• Contributing to the design, coordination, and continuous improvement of coursework and clinical experiences within the BA in Elementary Education program.
• Collaborating with program faculty to ensure alignment between coursework, clinical practice, and state and national standards for elementary teacher preparation.
• Participating in service activities that support undergraduate programs, including program assessment, accreditation-related work, and partnerships with schools and community organizations.
• Contributing, as a scholar-practitioner, to the intellectual life of the School of Education through engagement with research, practice, and professional communities related to elementary education and human development.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

We seek to hire candidates with an earned doctorate in education or related social science disciplines.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Professional experience in elementary education, teacher preparation, and/or applied work in human development or family science contexts.
• Evidence of effective and inclusive undergraduate teaching, particularly with students preparing for careers in education or human-serving professions.
• A strong ability to bridge theory and practice in courses and clinical settings, with attention to equity, diversity, and the developmental needs of children and families.
• Experience working collaboratively with faculty, school partners, and community stakeholders.
• Commitment to preparing future elementary educators through high-quality, practice-based instruction and mentoring.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Experience in elementary-grades teacher education is preferred.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions

To apply for the position, submit a letter of interest, vita, and the names of four references with full contact information, using the online application process at https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/323442. For full consideration, all application materials should be received by October 1, 2026, at which time the search committee will begin reviewing applications. The search will remain open until filled. For more information, email the Search Chair, Dr. Annemarie Hindman, ahindman@unc.edu.