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Harvard University

Professor of Urban Design

Closes:

Salary: $185,000 per year

66
School: Harvard Graduate School of Design

Department/Area: Urban Planning and Design

Position Description

The Department of Urban Planning and Design at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design (GSD) invites applications for a faculty position at the rank of Professor of Urban Design with tenure from distinguished scholars and practitioners. We seek candidates whose record of research, scholarship, and/or professional practice is recognized by peers as constituting exemplary, innovative approaches that critically engage with key challenges facing cities, including sustainable spatial patterns, conflicts facing the public realm, transformations of work and living environments, and growing economic and social inequalities while integrating these challenges within an epistemology of urban-architectural design.

In addressing these challenges, we are interested in candidates who are committed to interdisciplinary engagement in a school that hosts the fields of urban planning, landscape architecture, architecture, and real estate, as well as with schools within Harvard University at large. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to engage with a full range of urban design methods such as the deployment of digital platforms, new technologies including AI, and the latest innovations in spatial analysis and representation. Applicants should have a forward-looking agenda combining design research with studio and/or classroom pedagogy.

Basic Qualifications

Applicants must have an advanced terminal degree in urban design, architecture, or a related design field focused on cities.

The school aims to attract and retain individuals who possess a quality of mind demonstrating high levels of intelligence, clarity of expression, analytical ability, critical judgment, creativity, and initiative. We also value individuals who support free inquiry and expression by others and constructive, collegial collaborations with faculty, staff, and students. In the school's evaluation of candidates, desirable individual qualities and high potential are not substitutes for a record of academic and creative achievement. Accomplished contributions to the field through scholarship and/or design are essential to effective teaching over time. Continued study and investigation with public exposition of research and professional accomplishments are normal obligations for Harvard faculty members.

The position of tenured professor is intended for individuals pursuing full-time academic careers who are highly effective teachers and whose creative work in scholarship, design research/work, professional practice, or a combination thereof, is recognized by peers as a preeminent and enduring intellectual contribution to their field. Individuals in this position will employ their time teaching, conducting creative work in scholarship or design research/work, and fulfilling their responsibilities for academic service. Appointments are made with tenure on a full-time basis. The appointment for a full-time position requires residency in Cambridge/Boston, MA.

Special Instructions

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning in August 2026.

Applicants should submit:
  • A cover letter
  • A Curriculum Vitae
  • Design and research work samples - selected material from your portfolio, including publications, research statement, design work (up to 15 mb).
Subsequent Submission: Candidates advancing in the selection process will be asked to provide additional material later.

If visa sponsorship is needed, Harvard retains the discretion to determine which visa status is appropriate and whether a visa sponsorship application will ultimately be submitted, including payment of any applicable fees.

Contact Information

Katherine Igoe, Faculty Search Coordinator

Contact Email: katherine_igoe@gsd.harvard.edu

Salary Range

Professor (full-time, tenured) hiring range: $185,000+

Minimum Number of References Required: 0

Job details

Title
Professor of Urban Design
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Published
Oct 26, 2026
Closes:
Dec 26, 2026
Job type
Full time, Academic / Faculty, Architecture and Design
Field
Urban Design
Salary

Salary: $185,000 per year

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About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

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Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. 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Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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