"Fashion Studies, Outreach & Engagement (Tenure-Track, Assistant Professor)"

Position Summary

The Department of Fashion, Interior Design, and Merchandising at Central Michigan University invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor of Fashion Studies, Outreach & Engagement (a 9-month appointment beginning August 24, 2026). We seek a forward-thinking colleague whose teaching and scholarship focus on the historical foundations and contemporary issues in fashion, culture, and society. The successful candidate will create innovative learning experiences that connect students with broader communities and professional networks. This individual will also play a key role in leading student recruitment efforts, supporting public-facing events, and building sustainable partnerships with industry to strengthen engagement and outreach. A reduced teaching load may be available to support these initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and/or graduate courses in fashion history, culture, and society, with particular attention to contemporary issues.
• Lead the department’s outreach and engagement efforts by:
  • Expanding student recruitment activities to strengthen program visibility and attract prospective students.
  • Supporting public-facing events that showcase student work and connect with the broader community.
  • Developing industry partnerships that provide students with real-world opportunities and professional networks.
• Mentor and advise students; supervise undergraduate and graduate research projects.
• Maintain an active research agenda appropriate for tenure and promotion.
• Contribute to curriculum development, assessment, and department/college service.

This is an in-person position based at CMU’s main campus in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Required Qualifications

• Doctorate in Fashion Studies, or a closely related field; ABD candidates will be considered if the degree is conferred by the start date of the appointment.
• Evidence of effective college-level teaching in fashion history/culture/society or closely aligned topics.
• Demonstrated involvement in outreach and engagement activities.
• Demonstrated potential for scholarly productivity and/or creative work appropriate for tenure and promotion.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Leadership in outreach and engagement initiatives, such as developing industry partnerships, coordinating public-facing events, or leading student recruitment activities.
• Experience teaching in varied delivery formats, including online and hybrid.
• Evidence of technological competence and adaptability, including the ability to integrate digital and/or AI tools into teaching, research, and outreach.
• Professional or industry experience in the fashion field or related areas.
• Demonstrated leadership or experience in grant writing and/or externally supported projects.

Message to Applicants

You must submit an online application to be considered as an applicant for this position. Position will remain open until filled, although priority consideration will be given to applications completed by January 5, 2026.

Required Documents

• A letter of application addressing the required and preferred qualifications
• Curriculum vitae
• Copy of transcripts
• Teaching philosophy (include the information on courses taught and their evaluation rating scores if available)
• Research statement and writing sample (e.g., peer-reviewed journal articles)
• The names and contact information for three professional references

Please contact Dr. Seung-Eun (Joy) Lee, Search Committee Chair, at lee6s@cmich.edu or 989-774-2035 with questions about this position.

About the Department

The Department of Fashion, Interior Design, and Merchandising (DIFM) prepares students for a variety of careers in the fields of fashion, interior design, and merchandising. Within the department, the Fashion Merchandising & Design (FMD) program serves approximately 200 students and offers both on-campus and online majors. The curriculum blends design and merchandising to reflect current industry practices and prepare students for diverse careers in the fashion industry.

FMD students and faculty engage with cutting-edge facilities and equipment housed in the Center for Merchandising and Design Technology (CMDT) and specialized design and merchandising labs, where experiential learning and applied research are integral to the program. Through these experiences, students develop practical skills and professional readiness, supported by strong internship placements that have consistently contributed to over a 90% job placement rate. Study abroad opportunities in Asia and Europe further enrich students’ global perspectives. The program also offers a Master of Science degree in Fashion Merchandising & Design for those pursuing advanced study in the field.

Please visit our website for more information about our department and program.

Posting Begins

11/12/2025

Open Until Filled: Yes