University of South Florida Libraries is hiring: Assistant Professor - Public Re

Assistant Professor – Public Relations

University of South Florida Libraries. This tenure‑track assistant professor position is located at 4202 East Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33620. The position is a nine‑month, full‑time role beginning on August 7, 2026. Salary is negotiable.

Job Description

The Zimmerman School of Advertising & Mass Communications invites applications for a tenure‑track Assistant Professor in Public Relations. We seek an outstanding scholar and instructor with a distinctive and innovative research agenda in public relations and a teaching specialization in one or more of the following areas: campaign strategy, ethics, social responsibility, and strategic communication management. Experience with quantitative research methods and/or social media analytics is a plus. The ideal candidate will have potential for or an established record of success in attracting external research funding, contribute to building the research culture in the Zimmerman School, and have an opportunity to participate in the Media Research Center, which supports teaching and scholarly work in data analytics and emerging technologies.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate Integrated Public Relations and Advertising (IPRA) courses and graduate Strategic Communication Management courses.
• Develop and maintain a distinctive research agenda in public relations.
• Contribute to the research culture and activities of the Zimmerman School.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• A relevant Ph.D. or equivalent degree from an accredited institution (ABD will be considered if completed before August 7, 2026).
• Prior teaching experience in public relations and/or strategic communication.
• A record of research in public relations, strategic communication, or a related disciplinary focus.
• Meeting university criteria for appointment as an Assistant Professor.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant professional experience and work with digital and social media communication in public relations contexts.

Application Materials

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Research statement
• Teaching philosophy
• Three professional references (names and contact information)

Application Process

Position is open until filled. Review of applications begins on October 1, 2025. Questions may be directed to Search Committee Chair Travis Bell at trbell@usf.edu.

EEO and Disability Accommodation

USF is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access institution. For disability accommodations, contact Gina Lombardo at glombardo@usf.edu at least five working days in advance. This position is subject to Foreign Influence Screening. House Bill 7017 (“HB 7017”).

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.