The University of Southern Mississippi is hiring: Assistant Professor of Library

Assistant Professor of Library and Information Science

Closing date: February 1, 2026

Salary Range: 68,000.00 - 68,000.00

Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The University of Southern Mississippi invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor in the School of Library and Information Science. This tenure-track position comes with a 3/3 teaching load with opportunities for additional compensation through summer teaching. The successful candidate will teach synchronous courses, conduct research, and participate in service to the profession and University.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Ideal candidates will have a robust research agenda that complements the existing strengths of the faculty. In addition, we seek applicants who have the ability to teach a variety of courses in emerging information science areas, such as data science, informatics and artificial intelligence, as well as courses in librarianship, including cataloging, collection development, and reference. Primary job duties include:

• The ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds.
• Conducting an active research agenda through publication in journals and participation in scholarly conferences.
• The ability to teach in the core curriculum as well as develop new course offerings in the candidate’s area of specialization.
• Support University and School activities through service and membership in professional organizations.
• Support undergraduate and graduate students through regular advising and mentorship.
• Follow School and University policies and perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

A Master’s degree in Library and Information Science and a Doctoral degree in Library and Information Science or a related field from an accredited college or university is required. Establishment ability to work in the United States.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to teach synchronously online
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Excellent organization and time management skills
• Familiarity with current LMS platforms (preferably Canvas)
• Evidence of a current or emerging research agenda related to a library and information science topic
• Ability to teach evenings

Preferred Qualifications

Experience teaching online and prior work experience in a professional information setting (i.e., library, archive, museum, etc.) is desired.

Ongoing demonstrated scholarship including but not limited to prior successful grant submissions and publication in peer-reviewed journals is ideal.

Individuals with a strong record of teaching and scholarship situated within information science topics including data management, informatics, and artificial intelligence is strongly preferred.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.

About the University

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

We are known for pioneering work across multiple disciplines and offer programs in computer engineering, information technology, ocean engineering, cybersecurity, and other fields. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders and responding to workforce needs across education, nursing, and more.

Equal Opportunity

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.