Associate or Full Professor in Interior Design
The College of Design at the University of Kentucky invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of the School of Interiors. The Director will lead the next phase of the school's development, working closely with faculty to articulate and advance a clear and compelling vision for the future of interior design education, one that builds on the school's strengths in material exploration, interdisciplinary design, and human-centered inquiry while expanding its research impact, global reach, and national visibility. The Director of the School of Interiors is a full-time faculty position with administrative responsibilities. A complete application must include and will be evaluated based on the following materials: a cover letter addressing experience and vision related to leadership, research and creative scholarship, service, teaching, as well as the future of design education and the industry a current curriculum vitae or resume highlighting relevant academic and/or professional experience names and contact information for at least three references (who will not be contacted unless/until a candidate is invited to an on-campus interview) sample of scholarly or creative work (10 pages max. External Engagement and VisibilityServe as the public face of the School and position it within national and international design conversationsExpand partnerships with industry, alumni, peer institutions, and community organizationsGrow the School's global footprint through study abroad and international research initiativesBuild upon and activate an Advisory Board and contribute to philanthropic effortsElevate the visibility of faculty research and creative work through strategic communication and outreachStudent Experience and OutcomesChampion a rigorous, engaging, and supportive student experienceEncourage intellectual risk-taking and critical engagement in student workStrengthen connections to professional practice, graduate education, and interdisciplinary opportunitiesSupport pathways that connect undergraduate and graduate research and learningFaculty Leadership and DevelopmentBuild alignment across School faculty while supporting individual trajectoriesOversee review, promotion, and mentoring processesSupport and elevate faculty research, creative activity, and external recognitionBuild upon a culture of shared governance, collaboration, and mutual accountabilityAcademic and Intellectual LeadershipLead the intellectual and pedagogical direction of the schoolSupport a cohesive curricular vision aligned with the school's mission and future trajectoryAdvance a culture of critical inquiry, experimentation, and design rigorGuide curriculum development, assessment, and accreditationStrengthen the integration of research across studios, seminars, and graduate workOperations and Program ManagementOversee budgets, staffing, and day-to-day operationsDevelop course schedules and faculty teaching assignmentsAlign resources with strategic prioritiesCollaborate with College leadership on hiring, planning, and resource allocationAbout the School of Interiors