Description
The University of South Carolina recognizes the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence. Via this Presidential-funded hire, the School of Journalism and Mass Communications (SJMC) is seeking applicants for a full-time tenure track position at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor whose research focuses on artificial intelligence in the contexts of mediated communication.
Possible research areas include but are not limited to Artificial Intelligence in the contexts of:
- Extended reality (VR/AR/MR)
- E-gaming and/or video games
- Data mining
- Web 3.0
- Computer vision
- User-facing bots
- Large language models
- Image and video generation
- Blockchain, ad verification, and/or smart contracts
- Software development
- Emerging content production tools and platforms
The new hire will join a collegial and ambitious faculty—a group of scholars who are helping spearhead the University’s innovative work as a Carnegie Research 1 institution. Furthermore, the ideal candidate will be able to contribute to the school’s reputation by publishing research in top-tier journals aligning with one the SJMC’s core research areas of advertising, journalism, sports media, public relations, and mass communication. The expected start date is August 16, 2026.
The School of Journalism and Mass Communications
The School of Journalism and Mass Communications (SJMC) enrolls approximately 2,000 undergraduates and 120 graduate students across programs in advertising, public relations, broadcast journalism, journalism, mass communication, sports media, and visual communication, as well as several interdisciplinary minors. The SJMC also offers a research-oriented master’s program in theory and research, a professionally focused master’s program, and a Ph.D. in mass communication. Faculty combine scholarly and professional expertise to advance communication research and practice in ways that prepare students for leadership in media, strategic communication, and related fields.
The College of Information and Communications
The College of Information and Communications (CIC) is a vibrant community of scholars, teachers, practitioners, and staff dedicated to shaping the future of our information-powered world. With more than 2,700 students and 150 faculty and staff, we blend transformative teaching, cutting-edge research, and real-world experiences that prepare graduates to thrive. Our programs span social media, cybersecurity, digital strategy, sports media, libraries, journalism, and beyond, reflecting the dynamic ways information connects people and drives change. Students and faculty benefit from unique resources such as our social media analytics lab, biometric and UX research lab, and emerging information technology facilities. Together, we push boundaries, explore new possibilities, and prepare leaders ready to make an impact.
The University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Application Process:
All applicants must complete an online application at USC Jobs at the following link: https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/195208. Applications are due by November 1, 2025. The position will remain open until filled.
Candidates should be prepared to upload the following documents:
- Letter of application that includes a research statement demonstrating AI as a core area of emphasis
- Curriculum vitae
- List of three references (including name, phone number, and email)
- Three letters of recommendation signed and on letterhead (only for candidates selected as finalists) should be emailed directly to Rachel Rolli at rachelrolli@sc.edu. While these letters are only required prior to interview, letters may be uploaded to USCJobs at the time of initial application.
Inquiries about this posting should be directed to Search Committee Chair Dr. Scott Parrott at scott.parrott@sc.edu.
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Requirements
Required Education and Experience:
- Ph.D. in a communication related field by the start date of the position. ABDs will be considered, with the Ph.D. required at the time of appointment.
- A well-established record for publishing digital communication strategy/analysis/content creation research that advances the department’s profile at the nexus of artificial intelligence and mass communication (at least 5 years for Associate Professor rank or at least 9 years for Full Professor rank).
- At least one stream of research with artificial intelligence as its core, and a demonstrated track record or potential to publish research contributing to the school’s reputation in one of its core research areas.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Demonstrated expertise for securing external research funding.
- Demonstrated expertise in teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
