Term Open Rank Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies

Chief purpose of this position:
The Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) Program at Virginia Commonwealth University is seeking a faculty colleague with expertise in the teaching and scholarship of mixed and immersive virtual reality. The successful candidate will be expected to teach introductory and summative courses in the IDS program’s new Mixed & Immersive Reality Studies minor, core classes in the Interdisciplinary Studies major, including interdisciplinary theory and capstone courses, and special topics courses in their field of expertise. This position will additionally contribute to the curricular development, innovative pedagogy, and assessment of the minor and program.

Position Responsibilities:

• Teach a 4/4 instructional load to include the introductory and culminating courses for the Mixed& Immersive Reality Studies minor, as well as interdisciplinary theory and capstone courses (i.e., IDST 301 and 499) as needed for the IDS major, including online sections.

• Lead the Mixed & Immersive Reality Studies minor curricular development, pedagogical innovation, and assessment practices.

• Support the IDS administrative team to foster the continued development of the program.

• Coordinate cross-departmental faculty in teaching in and contributing to the Mixed & Immersive Reality Studies minor.

• Participate in regular IDS program meetings.

• Service on program, administrative unit, and university-wide committees, as necessary.

Required Qualifications:

• Terminal degree (PhD or equivalent preferred) in a relevant interdisciplinary field that focuses on the study of human experience in virtual environments.

• Commitment to working in a learning-centered environment focused on integrative learning.

• Demonstrated ability to work in collaboration with others including faculty from other disciplines.

• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff and student environment or commitment to do so as a faculty member at VCU.

• Strong communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Evidence of excellence in college-level teaching, including online teaching.

• Demonstrated experience working with and teaching non-traditional and URM students.

• Demonstrated experience launching and growing new academic courses and/or minors.

• Familiarity with designing course- and program-level assessment strategies.

• Potential for grant development in areas related to the Mixed & Immersive Reality Studies minor.