"Immersive Media and Video (Tenure-Track, Assistant Professor)"

Position Summary

The School of Communication, Journalism, and Media at Central Michigan University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position in immersive media and content creation at the rank of Assistant Professor.

We are looking for immersive media scholars and innovative storytellers - a candidate who has completed or will complete a terminal degree program (MFA, PhD, or equivalent) with immersive media as their central research and creative agenda. This position is designed for an emerging tenure-track educator and innovator who is building a dynamic academic career, continuing to develop their immersive media work, and who will inspire students at the undergraduate and graduate level.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about storytelling, experimentation, and the integration of technology with human creativity, while also contributing to CMUs dynamic program that emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and socially engaged communication practices. Candidates whose research or creative work explores critical perspectives on technology, or new modes of digital engagement are especially encouraged to apply.

Position Expectations:

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in digital media production (cinematography, editing, sound design, motion graphics) and complementary areas of immersive media (VR/AR/MR, 360 video, virtual production, interactive design).
• Develop forward-looking curriculum that blends emerging technologies with timeless storytelling principles.
• Establish and sustain nationally recognized research and/or creative practice agenda that builds upon the candidates graduate work and pushes the boundaries of immersive media.
• Mentor and collaborate with undergraduate and graduate students in both creative and scholarly projects.
• Create connections with industry and community partners to provide students with meaningful, real-world opportunities.
• Contribute to the School, College, and University through service, outreach, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD, MFA, or equivalent terminal degree completed by August 24, 2026, with an emphasis in immersive media, film, media arts, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in immersive technologies such as VR/AR/MR, 360 video, or interactive environments.
• Proficiency with contemporary production tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Unreal Engine, Unity, Blender, or equivalent).
• Strong portfolio of creative or scholarly work that demonstrates innovation in immersive media.
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness or strong potential for success in the classroom.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous college-level teaching experience.
• Scholarly research or creative practice centered on immersive media that demonstrates promise for continued development.
• Engagement with emerging practices such as AI-driven media, virtual production pipelines, or game engines for storytelling.
• Familiarity with trends in digital distribution, user experience, and interactive design.
• Experience seeking external funding, grants, or partnerships to support research and creative work.

Message to Applicants:

Central Michigan University is dedicated to fostering an environment that is reflective of the communities we serve. We are especially interested in highly qualified candidates who will advance and promote CMUs mission, vision, and leadership standards.

You must submit an online application in order to be considered as an applicant for this position.

Cover letters may be addressed to the Hiring Committee.

Please include a link to video production demos in the cover letter and/or CV.

Preference will be given to applicants who apply by October 31, 2025.

About the Department:

The School of Communication, Journalism, and Media at Central Michigan University is dedicated to empowering students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in todays rapidly evolving media landscape. With a range of programs and courses, we offer hands-on training in communication, journalism, media, and more.

Our faculty are industry professionals and scholars who are passionate about mentorship and guiding students toward successful careers in media and communication.

For more information, please visit our website.