Asst. Professor Of Design Thinking & Department Chairperson

Overview

The Pennsylvania College of Art & Design invites applications for a full-time Assistant Professor of Design Thinking and Department Chairperson faculty position to establish the newly developed Design Thinking program. Created in AY 22-23 and launched in AY 23-24, the Design Thinking Bachelor of Art major program is an interdisciplinary studio-based degree that provides students with a broad and rigorous range of studio practices. With a foundation in design thinking through Design Thinking seminars, Foundation year of study, Liberal Arts Distribution courses, and 21 credit hours in two different studio areas, the program prepares students to become strategic leaders and design thinkers in arts and arts adjacent industries.

The successful applicant will demonstrate expertise in teaching Design Thinking and Design Research courses, the ability to teach both traditional and digital modalities, and a commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Exceptional candidates are highly engaged in the community, have professional industry experience, possess skills in design thinking and innovation. They will bring experience and demonstrate a record of commitment to mentoring, teaching, and providing support for historically underrepresented and underserved communities.

The Design Thinking department is committed to inclusivity, diversity, equity, and excellence in education. Our department values instructors who are energetic and passionate about teaching and who are also dedicated to maintaining their own design research and innovation.

Our faculty support students to explore their artistic visions while teaching them the fundamental skills of art making, and preparing students to pursue specialization in all majors that PCA&D offers. In addition to teaching 18 studio credit hours per year, PCA&D faculty participate in assessment, program review, perform service in the faculty governance system, participate in admissions and recruitment activities, and offer advising and mentorship to students.

Required Qualifications

• MS in Design Thinking, Research, or Innovation

• Evidence of College level teaching experience with a history of success in working with students of diverse backgrounds and interests

• Evidence of academic, applied, or educational research in design thinking and research

• Ability to communicate effectively and contribute to a positive work environment

• Desire to work collaboratively towards the development of shared projects and initiatives

• Effective motivation skills targeted to a diverse group of students, colleagues, and community members

• Desire to work collaboratively towards the development of shared projects and initiatives

• Commitment to support for a student-centered learning environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred Ph.D. in Design Thinking, Research, or Innovation

• Demonstrated proficiency in design practices for social research and impact assessment

• Understanding of assessment practices

Responsibilities

• Teach Design thinking students with a teaching load of 18 credit hours, or 3, 3 credit hour courses per semester

• Advise and mentor students within the department

• Assist in course development, implementation, and assessment of curriculum

• Attend and help facilitate department meetings

• Maintain office hours for student support and drop-ins

Application Materials and Deadlines

• Cover Letter

• Curriculum Vitae

• Unofficial Transcripts

• Link to applicant's professional webpage

• Teaching Philosophy and relevant materials such as a sample syllabus, assignment, and rubric

• One-page statement on diversity, equity, and inclusion as it directly relates to your teaching, research, contributions, and/or mentoring

• Sample of professional research and work in design thinking

• Samples of Student Work

• Name and contact information for 3 professional references, including one supervisor.

• Send application materials to designthinking@pcad.edu.

• Applications received by May 15, 2024 will be given priority. Open until filled.

This is an exempt, full-time position, based on our Lancaster, PA, campus. PCA&D offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical/dental/vision, Life insurance, Short and Long-Term Disability, and a 403(b) retirement plan plus match after qualifying period.

PCA&D is an equal opportunity employer and affirmative action employer and does not discriminate in compliance with all applicable laws in the admission of students, administration of programs, employment of faculty and staff, and any terms of instruction and employment. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, veterans, women, and LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) and gender non-binary persons to apply.

PCA&D is a private, independent college of art and design. The College is distinguished by its interactive classes, one-on-one attention from exceptional faculty, a culture of creative exploration, and interdisciplinary learning opportunities. The College values diversity and has a growing record of academic achievement with first-generation students, students of color, LGBTQIA+ students, and other underrepresented students. PCA&D values diversity and inclusion in all aspects of the college community and invites candidates who through their administration and leadership will contribute to our shared commitment to a diverse and inclusive academic art and design community. https://pcad.edu/