Dietrich Endowed Chair in Disinformation Studies

Dietrich Endowed Chair in Disinformation Studies

The Department of Communication at the University of Pittsburgh seeks a scholar at the level of advanced Associate or Full Professor with an established record employing quantitative, data-driven methods in (critical) disinformation studies, misinformation, propaganda, online radicalization, extremism, and/or similar problem areas for our new endowed chair in Disinformation Studies, pending budgetary approval. Key areas of research might include—but are not limited to—the spread of online conspiracy theories, the role of social media in racial, gendered, or transphobic violence, disinformation, and democracy, the role of new media in spreading health disinformation, and/or the formation of online hate groups. Ideal candidates will have a developed research agenda with demonstrable evidence of impact and a strong record of graduate student advising and/or teaching at the college level.

The Department of Communication at the University of Pittsburgh has historically demonstrated strength in (primarily, but not exclusively) qualitative methods in media studies and rhetoric but welcomes a diversity of research methods and interests, to which the Dietrich Chair in Disinformation Studies will contribute by adding new capacities in quantitative research in conversation with our scholars already engaged in the study of disinformation. Demonstrated ability to work with colleagues employing a diversity of methods and approaches, including humanistic ones, is preferred. The intellectual and pedagogical environment at the University of Pittsburgh provides ample opportunities for substantive conversations regarding research and teaching excellence, including the Collaboratory Against Hate and Pitt Disinformation Lab.

The starting date for the position is September 1, 2024 (though the term begins in August). Salary, scholarly assistance, and benefits are competitive. This institution offers benefits to same-sex and different-sex domestic partners. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, names, and contact information for three letters of recommendation, a statement of teaching philosophy, a statement on diversity and inclusion (advice here), sample course syllabi and course assignments, and evidence of teaching effectiveness to join.pitt.edu with the position title, Dietrich Chair in Disinformation Studies, in the subject heading. This position is dependent on budgetary approval.

A Ph.D. in Communication, Media, Political Science, Information Sciences, or a closely related field is required. In order to receive full consideration, applications must be received by January 1, 2024, at 10:00 p.m. EST.

The Department of Communication at the University of Pittsburgh is committed to cultivating a fundamentally diverse, inclusive, supportive, and self-reflexive environment for all its undergraduate, graduate, staff, and faculty members. We also strive to bring intellectual curiosity, skill, and dedication to the question of how to generate and maintain a just and equitable scholarly community.

The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences is committed to building and fostering a culturally diverse environment. Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in support of a diverse community are required.

Required documents:1. CV2. Names and contact information for three letters of recommendation3. Statement of teaching philosophy4. Statement on diversity and inclusion5. Sample course syllabi and course assignments6. Evidence of teaching effectiveness

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.