Houston, USA
Assistant professor for UX/UI design, AI and system design
at University of Houston
The University of Houston is hiring an assistant professor for UX/UI design, AI and system design to join its team in Houston, Texas.
Organisation: H0024 Dean, architecture and design
Salary: commensurate with experience
Description: presidential frontier faculty tenure track assistant professor for UX/UI design, AI and system design
The Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design at the University of Houston invites applications for a presidential frontier faculty (PFF) tenure track assistant professor position.
We are seeking a scholar/practitioner with a research and practice background in UX/UI design and AI-integrated system design.
This PFF position is strategically designed as an integral part of the programme’s human-centred technology design team. This is a proactive response to the fast-surging demand for UX/UI-related interdisciplinary research and design education in the ID programme at the Hines College of Architecture and Design. This response is in recognition of the far-reaching impact of UX/UI on all professions that produce or manufacture useable products and tools we live with.
Job description
The dynamics of the design field are rapidly evolving, where physical and digital products, systems, services and the application of emerging technologies are increasingly intertwined. The integration of physical and digital products, systems and services is essential for future innovation.
The ID programme at the University of Houston is at the forefront of this evolution, adopting a systems design approach that integrates UX/UI design into product experience design (PXD), with a strong emphasis on AI and XR.
We are particularly focused on how these technologies can be leveraged to develop innovative UX designs for AI-integrated systems and to create XR platforms that open up new possibilities in design and user experience.
With an expectation of contributing to our mission by leading research, teaching and practice in these areas, the ideal candidate will have experience not only in using AI and XR to enhance design workflows but also in pioneering UX design for AI-driven systems and developing XR platforms that push the boundaries of what is possible in the design and user experience space.
Under direct support from the University of Houston’s primary research AI cluster, this position offers a generous start-up package including dedicated funding, time and facilities to pursue interdisciplinary research and design practice. This PFF faculty member is expected to leverage and interact with others in the AI cluster across the university colleges and research centres.
Responsibilities
As a member of the academic faculty at the College of Architecture and Design, this PFF tenure track position will be responsible for leading research in the focused areas, offering studio and specialised elective courses and services such as:
- actively leading and developing the UX/UI and AI research and design, and seeking and securing external grants and funding to support research
- engaging with industry partners to create and maintain collaborative opportunities and external grants to advance research and practice
- playing a critical role in shaping the UX/UI, systems design, PXD and advanced technology curriculum
- leading design studio teaching, lecture and lab instruction
- advancing scholarly and creative work by conducting meaningful and impactful research and practice
- mentoring graduate and undergraduate students and support their academic development
- participating in committee and service activities at the departmental, college and university levels
Applications
Only electronic applications will be accepted. Please apply using the apply for job button below.
Applicants should provide the following:
- cover letter indicating interest in responding to the outlined duties and qualifications, including teaching philosophy and research interests
- curriculum vitae
- names of three professional reference letters with contact information
- portfolio demonstrating proficiency and excellence with design projects in one or more focused fields: UX/UI design, systems design, product experience design and advanced technology in AI and immersive media such as XR, including AR/VR
- evidence of success in research/creative activities and samples of publications
- samples of student designs from the courses taught are encouraged (all with the candidate’s role and responsibility indicated)
For further information or questions, please contact: Jeff Feng, Search Committee Chair, [email protected]
Application review will continue until the position is filled. The successful applicant is expected to start in mid-August 2025.
The University of Houston is responsive to the needs of dual-career couples.
The University of Houston is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution and recognises protected classes of race, colour, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, religion, age (40 and above), national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or status and gender expression as required by federal law. Veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Qualifications
- qualified candidates must have a terminal degree in industrial design, interaction design, UX/UI, HCI or a relevant field
- a strong portfolio and some experience in cross-disciplinary teaching or practice, evidenced by publications in design-related areas
- a desired record of success in funded scholarly/professional activities
- industry experience is preferred, specifically in UX/UI design, product design, systems design or service design
Notes to applicant
Official transcripts are required for a faculty appointment and will be requested upon the selection of the final candidate. All positions at the University of Houston are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check.
Required attachments by candidate:
- curriculum vitae
- cover letter/letter of application
- teaching philosophy or statement
- research statement
- portfolio
Employee status: regular/benefits
For more information about the University of Houston Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design, please visit: