The Media and Cultural Studies Department at Macalester College seeks candidates for a position in Critical Digital Studies/Practice at the rank of Assistant Professor (tenure track). We are open to a wide array of specializations within critical digital studies, including, but not limited to, the areas of gaming, interactive and immersive media such as VR and AR, 3D filmmaking and modeling, artificial intelligence, digital journalism and other forms of digital storytelling, and data visualization. An ideal candidate will be able to teach digital literacy in the context of broader questions of justice, representation, critical theory and history, and/or civic engagement. We are particularly interested in candidates who integrate elements of practice, broadly conceived, into their teaching and research, preparing students to use digital media as a creative tool and instrument for social analysis and cultural change. 

We ask all candidates to address the following in their cover letter: 

• Specific interest in joining the Macalester College Faculty, why Macalester? 
• Alignment with Macalester’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion: How does your approach to teaching, scholarship, and/or service support learning environments where students from all backgrounds can thrive? 
• Experience and/or vision in teaching undergraduate students; include experience using inclusive pedagogy, active and innovative teaching strategies, and assessment of learning outcomes as applicable. 
•  Contributions to the scholarly or creative field and research; highlight professional engagement in the field and community engagement in local and/or global contexts.

Macalester is a highly selective, private liberal arts college in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, with a population of approximately three million people and home to numerous colleges and universities, as well as vibrant arts, music, and other cultural institutions. Macalester's diverse student body comprises over 2000 undergraduates from 45 states and the District of Columbia and 70 countries. The College maintains a longstanding commitment to academic distinction with a special emphasis on internationalism, multiculturalism, and service to society. As an Equal Opportunity employer supportive of affirmative efforts to achieve diversity among its faculty, Macalester College strongly encourages applications from women and members of historically marginalized groups. International scholars will receive H-1B visa assistance if selected for this position. 

Please note that candidates who are invited for a campus interview will be required to complete faculty screening questions, and offers of employment are contingent upon a successful criminal background check at the time of offer. Additionally, finalist candidates will be asked for additional references. 

Position Start Date, September 2026

Candidates having completed a PhD and/or MFA in related fields by August 2026 will be given full consideration. 

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V. 
• Cover Letter - A detailed cover letter that summarizes your qualifications and interest in the position.
• Teaching Statement
• Research Statement
• Writing Sample (required)
• Samples of Practice-Based Creative or Scholarly work in the area of critical digital studies (strongly encouraged). Samples may include a PDF of 5-10 images, a link to 3-5 minutes of video (include time stamps), or link to website exhibiting research, journalistic, or creative work.
• A list of three references, who will be contacted for letters of recommendation if a candidate advances in the search process.

Applications received by October 8 will be given full consideration. 

 

The starting salary range for this position will be $83,000-85,000, depending upon experience. If this search is being run for an advanced assistant or associate level candidate, salary would be higher and based on internal equity. At Macalester, we offer a generous package of employee benefits. Here are some highlights:

• 10% employer contributions to the retirement plan. 
• Comprehensive health insurance options, including a high-deductible health plan and PPO plan.
• Generous employer contribution to Health Savings Account. 
• Tuition assistance which pays between 75% - 100% of eligible tuition for employee dependents at select institutions. 
• Free primary care for most services through Nice Healthcare when enrolled in a Macalester health plan. 
• Access to the athletics fitness facility, wellness coaching, and activities.

You may see our full benefits options on our Benefits Page.