Assistant Professor in AI Literacies and Emerging Technologies

About the job

Details

Tenure Track Hire in AI Literacies and Emerging Technologies, Writing and Rhetoric Studies

The University of Utah’s Department of Writing & Rhetoric Studies is seeking a tenure­ track assistant professor with a specialization in generative artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. Successful candidates will have expertise in AI as it intersects with writing, ethics, pedagogy, and academic research. Secondary expertise in writing program administration, WAC/WID, and/or professional and technical writing are particularly welcome. We invite applications from both early career and experienced scholars. Candidates with established research agendas and a publishing record related to AI are especially encouraged to apply. The regular teaching responsibility is two courses per semester, with release time for taking on substantive administrative roles within the department over time. This faculty position starts in July 2027.

Minimum Qualifications

PhD in Rhetoric and Composition or closely related field. The degree must be awarded before July 1, 2027. The successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to conduct and publish high-quality scholarship in writing, rhetoric, and/or literacy studies, to be successful in teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels, and to work with students of all backgrounds and identities. The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working with students from diverse backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education for historically underrepresented students.

Department Overview

The successful candidate will join a dynamic department with a long-standing first-year writing program, a vibrant undergraduate major and minor in Writing & Rhetoric Studies, undergraduate certificates in Medical and Professional and Technical Writing, Masters and PhD programs in Rhetoric and Composition, and a University Writing Center. In 2027, the department anticipates launching a new graduate certificate and online MS degree in Teaching Reading & Writing at Access-Oriented Institutions as well as a Professional MA in Workplace Writing & Emerging Technologies. As a department, we embrace interdisciplinary approaches to writing and rhetoric studies, and we are deeply committed to supporting diverse scholarly interests and methodologies, valuing global rhetorical traditions and language practices, structuring opportunities for students of all backgrounds and identities to learn and grow, and promoting reciprocal relationships with two- and four-year institutions throughout our region and with both local and global communities.

The Department of Writing & Rhetoric Studies is housed with the College of Humanities, which fosters many opportunities for critical interdisciplinary scholarship through units like the Tanner Humanities Center, the Asia Center, the Middle East Center, the Center for Latin American Studies, and the Center for Pasifika Indigenous Knowledges. The University also supports AI-related research and teaching across the disciplines through its Responsible AI Initiative. Located in Salt Lake City, the University of Utah is an integral part of a diverse urban region and a state that is home to eight federally recognized tribal nations.

The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, national origin, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, status as a person with a disability, genetic information, or Protected Veteran status. Individuals from historically underrepresented groups, such as minorities, women, qualified persons with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities. To inquire about the University’s nondiscrimination or affirmative action policies or to request disability accommodation, please contact: Director, Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action, 201 S. Presidents Circle, Rm 135, (801) 581-8365.

Application Materials

Candidates should submit the following materials no later than October 25, 2026: 1) letter of application; 2) CV; 3) list of references 4) teaching philosophy; 5) writing sample of no more than 25 pages.

Candidates who advance beyond the initial screening will be contacted by November 9. Initial interviews will be conducted remotely in November. Campus interviews will begin in December 2026. The position will remain open until filled.

Inquiries can be directed to Dr. Jenny Andrus, Chair of the Department of Writing and Rhetoric Studies (j.andrus@utah.edu).

Notice

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.

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Special Instructions for Candidates

Candidates should submit the following materials no later than October 25, 2026: 1) letter of application; 2) CV; 3) list of references 4) teaching philosophy; 5) writing sample of no more than 25 pages.