Research Associate-Fixed Term

The Department of Media and Information at Michigan State University’s College of Communication Arts & Sciences (ComArtSci) seeks a postdoctoral fellow to join its faculty, which is consistently ranked among the best in the world for scholarly productivity and teaching. As the first college of communication in the U.S. and the fastest-growing college at MSU, ComArtSci is experiencing record enrollments.  

The Dean’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Initiative is designed to enhance our academic community by welcoming dynamic and innovative scholar-educators who upon successful completion of their postdoctoral fellowship will matriculate to a tenure-track assistant professor position.  This two-year fellowship is subject to review after the first year and may begin as early as August 16, 2026. 

Research Focus 

The Department of Media and Information seeks a candidate whose work advances inclusive excellence that builds and potentially expands the range of perspectives and methodologies in human-computer interaction, human-robot interaction, rural computing, game studies and design, and the relationships between technology and policy, health and wellness, and society.  

Postdoctoral Fellowship Expectations 

• Prepare for a transition to a tenure-track faculty position within Media and Information.  

• Conduct and publish peer-reviewed research or creative works independently or in collaboration with faculty mentors. 

• Identify and work with faculty mentors across the department. 

• In year 1, teach one course and/or engage in grant writing, outreach, and service activities. 

About the Department 

The Department of Media and Information bring together faculty from diverse disciplines to advance research in human-computer interaction, human-robot interaction, rural computing, game studies and design, and the relationships between technology, policy, health, and society.  

Department faculty collaborate across fields such as communication, information science, media, psychology, sociology, design, and human-computer interaction to explore critical challenges and develop innovative solutions. The department values diverse perspectives and methodologies, supporting research that enhances quality of life for individuals and communities. MI is a member of the iSchools consortium and houses a top-ranked program in game design and development. 

Appointment Terms & Compensation 

• Nine-month renewable academic year appointment with potential for summer teaching opportunities. 

• Salary comparable to a starting Assistant Professor in the department, plus benefits. 

• Research and professional funding (e.g., for travel, archives, transcription, student research assistants, etc.). 

• One-time relocation allowance. 

Candidates must submit the following via MSU’s job portal: 

1. Cover Letter (up to 5 pages) – Should include your career plans, research interests, and a list of up to three potential faculty mentors. For each mentor, briefly explain how their expertise aligns with your background and professional goals. See Special Instructions below for guidance on identifying eligible mentors. 

1. Statement on Teaching Excellence (1-2 pages) - Describe how your work, background, or perspective would contribute to teaching excellence in the areas of research, teaching, and service. 

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Include a full list of publications with links where available. 

1. References – Provide the names and contact information for three professional references. 

Special Instructions 

Candidates are encouraged to review the websites of the Department of Media and Information and the Dean’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program to identify eligible faculty mentors. 

Applications must be submitted through careers.msu.edu. 

For additional information or to request accommodation, please contact Dr. Lauren J. Gaines, Chair of the Search Committee, at gainesla@msu.edu with the subject line “ComArtSci Postdoc – Media & Information.” 

Review of Applications Begins On 

December 1, 2025 – Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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The Department of Media and Information brings together faculty from diverse disciplines to advance research in human-computer interaction, human-robot interaction, rural computing, game studies and design, and the relationships between technology, policy, health, and society.  

Department faculty collaborate across fields such as communication, information science, media, psychology, sociology, design, and human-computer interaction to explore critical challenges and develop innovative solutions. The department values diverse perspectives and methodologies, supporting research that enhances quality of life for individuals and communities. MI is a member of the iSchools consortium and houses a top-ranked program in game design and development.