Assistant Professor, Communication (Public Relations)

Job Overview

The Department of Communication invites applications for a full‑time, tenure‑track assistant professor position in public relations. The role focuses on building a strong, active research program while contributing to a diverse and inclusive community. Candidates will teach undergraduate and graduate public relations courses and support required courses in the general communication major. The position aligns with the Department’s mission of communication for the public good and ARHU’s strategic plan pillars: Transformative Thinking, Boundless Creativity, Expansive Empathy, and Meaningful Futures.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate a robust research agenda in public relations and related fields.• Teach undergraduate and graduate public relations courses.• Contribute to required courses in the general communication major.• Engage in scholarship, service, and leadership within the discipline and the community.• Collaborate with the Department’s research centers: Center for Health and Risk Communication, Mark and Heather Rosenker Center for Political Communication and Civic Leadership, and Black Communication and Technology Lab, as well as the Oral Communication Center.• Participate in departmental teaching, mentorship, and service to advance equity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in public relations, communication, mass communication, or a related field (or evidence of a strong, promising research program).
• Ability to advise graduate students.
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness and a teaching philosophy statement.
• Strong commitment to diversity and inclusion in scholarship, teaching, and service.
• Data, skills, or publications that align with the Department’s research centers.

Physical Demands

Normal classroom teaching demands.

Required Application Materials

1. A 1–2 page letter of interest detailing the applicant’s research program, connection to ARHU’s strategic pillars, and other qualifications.
2. A curriculum vitae including contact information for three references.
3. A teaching statement/philosophy with evidence of teaching effectiveness.
4. Two samples of recent research (journal articles, book chapters, etc.).

Salary & Benefits

Regular Faculty Salary Range: $90,000 – $95,000.
Benefits Summary: For more information on Regular Faculty benefits, see the University’s benefits portal.

Employment Eligibility

Successful candidates must complete employment eligibility verification (Form I‑9) by providing required documents. Failure to verify within legal timeframes may result in suspension or termination.

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background check. Candidates will have an opportunity to respond if adverse decisions are considered.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.