The School of Design at the University of Tennessee Knoxville invites applications for the 2027-2029 School of Design Fellowship. This full-time, nine-month position, awarded for two years, is designed for emerging educators interested in developing their teaching practice while advancing an independent agenda of research, scholarship, and /or creative activity.
The Fellowship recognizes and fosters emerging design educators whose work demonstrates extraordinary promise for the future of the discipline. This position also offers the opportunity to establish and advance a focused research or creative agenda that reflects their interests and contributes to contemporary graphic design discourse. The two-year fellowship culminates in a public presentation and exhibition showcasing the research, creative practice, and accomplishments during the appointment. Appointed at the rank of Lecturer, the Fellow will teach three courses per semester, including one special topics course of their interest, open to all students across the College of Architecture and Design. A one-course release is granted in the final semester to allow for preparation of the culminating presentation and exhibition. The position begins August 1, 2027. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications. This will be a full-time, non-tenure track appointment.
The School of Design is situated within the College of Architecture and Design, which also includes the Schools of Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Landscape Architecture. We offer a supportive and collegial atmosphere where designers contribute significantly to research, teaching, and public engagement. This position offers candidates whose interests align with innovative, cross-disciplinary research and engaged scholarship the opportunity to pursue projects in these areas.
The College of Architecture and Design is committed to staying at the forefront of technology and innovation. All faculty in the School of Design have access to the following resources: a print production studio with two Riso printers, a large-format scanner, assorted bindery options, and both large and small-format printers; a Letterpress Studio with an inventory of type; Woodshop and Fabrication Labs equipped with a CNC router, 3D printers, laser cutters, and a nine-axis robot; and the Digital Futures Lab, an AR/VR design studio supporting immersive projects and professional audio recording and streaming.
As a land-grant university and as "Volunteers," serving the state and nation is integral to the university's mission. The University of Tennessee enrolls approximately 33,805 students at its Knoxville campus. The university’s culture is guided by core values that define the Volunteer spirit, including the pursuit of knowledge, leading with innovation, advancing access and inclusion, engaging locally and globally, and embracing responsible stewardship of resources.
The School of Design Fellow will be an integral member of the School of Design faculty. Eligible candidates should exhibit the following:
- An MFA with a design or industrial design emphasis, MGD, or MDes, or degree in a related field. Relevant professional experience in lieu of a terminal degree will also be considered.
- Evidence of experience in a design classroom or design leadership setting, and a willingness to work across the curriculum.
- Demonstrated promise as a future Graphic Design or Industrial Design educator and researcher.
Review of applications will begin on December 16, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.
How to Apply:
Any questions regarding the position and application materials should be directed to Jess Parker, School of Design Administrative Specialist, at jpark119@utk.edu
Please submit the following application materials as a single PDF:
- Cover letter of intent
- Current Curriculum Vitae
- One-page statement of proposed Fellowship Research project goals
- Complete contact information for three professional references (contacted at the finalist stage)
- Portfolio of your work or link to an online portfolio
- Samples of student work or link to an online portfolio, if applicable
