POSITION SPECIFICS
The Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications seeks an outstanding faculty member for an Assistant Professor (tenure-track) position in the journalism department starting in August 2026. The successful candidate will have the ability to contribute to the broad intellectual life of the college and department.
We seek candidates with scholarly expertise in data journalism and/or artificial intelligence within journalism contexts. Areas of research and teaching interests may include (but are not limited to): computational methods for investigative reporting; data analysis, statistical literacy and visualization for storytelling; working with large datasets, APIs and public records; AI tools in news production and distribution; algorithmic accountability and transparency reporting; automated journalism and content generation; AI ethics in newsrooms; misinformation detection, deepfakes and verification technologies; or related areas that advance the ethical and effective use of data and AI in journalism. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to training the next generation of journalists to work responsibly and innovatively with data and emerging technologies.
Candidates should have a Ph.D. or terminal degree in a relevant field (by start date) and demonstrate appropriate experience with teaching undergraduate and graduate students.
Our department's award-winning programs in sports journalism and news create an ideal environment for research and teaching at the intersection of data, AI and journalism practice. In addition to teaching and research responsibilities, there are opportunities to collaborate with faculty and programs in the department and across the Bellisario Media Center, including the Curley Center for Sports Journalism, the News Lab and Centre County Report. More information about the department can be found at https://www.bellisario.psu.edu/departments/journalism.
Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV and the names and contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will begin January 5, 2026, and continue until a qualified candidate is identified. Please direct any questions to committee chair Professor Maggie Messitt at mpm7177@psu.edu. For information on the college and its programs, see http://bellisario.psu.edu/.
The University Park Campus is set in State College, a university town located in the heart of central Pennsylvania. State College offers a vibrant community with outstanding recreational and cultural activities. The campus is also within a half-day drive to Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City and Pittsburgh.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.