Assistant Professor - Interpersonal Communication

Description
Appointment Type: Tenure Track

State Title: Assistant Professor

Bargaining Unit: AFT

Employment Type: 35-hour work week/Full-time

Expected Term: 8/9/2027 - 6/8/2030

Compensation: Range 22, $93,659.67

 

About TCNJ

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) is a highly selective institution that is consistently recognized as one of the top comprehensive colleges in the nation. Founded in 1855 as the New Jersey State Normal School, TCNJ maintains the eighth highest four-year graduation rate among all public colleges and universities. It is ranked by Money as one of the top 15 public colleges “most likely to pay off financially,” and U.S. News & World Report rates it the No. 1 public institution among regional universities in the northeast.

 

Position Overview

The Department of Communication, Journalism, and Film (CJF) at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in technology-mediated interpersonal communication. We seek an outstanding teacher-scholar whose research and teaching expertise centers on the intersection of interpersonal or relational communication and technology-mediated communication.

 

The successful candidate’s research program should keep interpersonal or relational communication at its core, even as it engages with technology. Examples of research programs that align with this position include how technology-mediated communication shapes identity and/or personal and relational well-being; how communication processes such as conflict management, self-disclosure, and social support unfold through technology-mediated channels; and how technology-mediated communication is used within, or influences, couples and families. Research centered on digital media, mass communication, or technology in society that does not also engage relational or interpersonal communication falls outside the scope of this search.

 

Consistent with TCNJ’s teacher-scholar model, the successful candidate will teach undergraduate courses including Introduction to Communication Theory, Interpersonal Communication, and Research Methods, along with technology-mediated interpersonal communication courses that reflect their research expertise, while developing curriculum that bridges theory and practice. They will also mentor undergraduate students in professional development and research. In their research role, the faculty member will conduct original research in technology-mediated interpersonal communication, publish in peer-reviewed journals and other appropriate venues, present at professional conferences, and collaborate with departmental colleagues. Service expectations include participating in departmental, school, and college-level service, contributing to professional organizations and the broader academic community, and engaging in community outreach as appropriate.

 

About the Department of Communication, Journalism, and Film

The Department of Communication, Journalism, and Film (CJF) is one of the four departments within TCNJ’s School of the Arts and Communication. The department offers three majors: Communication Studies, Film and Television, and Journalism and Professional Writing, serving over 250 major students. There are four specializations in the Communication Studies major: Emerging Communication Technologies, Health Communication, Interpersonal and Strategic Communication, and Mass Media and Social Media. Aligned with the School’s mission, CJF cultivates analytical, critical, and creative thinking while fostering conscientious global citizenship and lifelong learning. Through integrated teaching and scholarship, we prepare students to make meaningful contributions to their communities and chosen careers. Our departmental mission centers on maximizing student engagement in the discovery and creation of knowledge, art, and information. We encourage independent initiative and inquiry while instilling a passion for lifelong learning. Our faculty serve as active professional scholars and writers who significantly advance knowledge and understanding in their respective fields. Additionally, CJF faculty prepare students to engage thoughtfully with a range of perspectives, experiences, and communities, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve and strengthen the communities in which they will live and work.

 

For more information about the departments, please visit https://cjf.tcnj.edu/.

 

Qualifications

 

Required:

• Have a Ph.D. in Communication Studies or a closely related field by the time of appointment. ABD candidates will be considered but must complete all degree requirements before starting the position.

• Demonstrate expertise in technology-mediated interpersonal or relational communication research.

• Show evidence of scholarly potential through publications, conference presentations, or dissertation research.

• Demonstrate knowledge of and commitment to best teaching practices.

• Demonstrate cultural competency and ability to foster inclusive learning environments and mutual respect for students and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

 

Preferred:

• We are especially interested in candidates whose research agenda complements and extends current faculty strengths within the department, opening possibilities for collaborative and interdisciplinary work.

 

Persons with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations in order to perform the essential functions of the position. If the requested accommodation(s) cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, the applicant may not be eligible for the position.

 

Employer Qualifications

Employment at TCNJ is contingent upon the successful completion of an applicable background check, reference checks, and verification of identity and authorization to work in the United States (Form I-9).

 

Accommodation: Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview should contact hr@tcnj.edu.

 

Employee Benefits
As a member of The College of New Jersey Community, you will be a part of an exciting and rewarding public college career. Eligible full-time employees will be able to take advantage of a generous benefits package that includes health, welfare, and retirement benefits, including:

Comprehensive benefit plans covering medical, dental and prescription plans

Generous leave entitlements program and Energy Savings Program 

Employee and dependent Tuition Waiver and Reimbursement Program

Pension, retirement, and deferred compensation plans, group life insurance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Employee affinity groups

New Jersey State Employee Discount Program (Pet insurance, cell phone plan discounts, discounted amusement park tickets, etc.)

Access to extensive learning opportunities 

 

To view a comprehensive list of benefits available to employees, visit our Health Benefits Plans and Programs page to learn more!

 

How to Apply

Applicants should submit:

• A cover letter highlighting how their qualifications match the requirements.

• A curriculum vitae.

• A teaching portfolio that includes a statement of teaching philosophy (no longer than two pages, single spaced) that addresses commitment to diversity and inclusive teaching, and evidence of teaching effectiveness, such as recent student evaluations, peer observation reports, or sample syllabi.

• A description of research interests and goals (no longer than two pages, single spaced).

•  Unofficial transcripts (graduate and undergraduate).

• Names and contact information for at least three professional references.

 

Applications should be submitted online. Please direct questions to the Chair of the Search Committee, Dr. Yachao Li, liya@tcnj.edu.

 

Applications must be received by December 1^st to ensure full consideration. The search committee will begin reviewing applications immediately and continue until the position is filled.

 

The College is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus community that respects and uplifts individuals from all backgrounds. We value the varied perspectives, experiences, and talents of all members of our community and strive to create an environment where everyone has equitable access to opportunities for success. As an equal opportunity employer, we comply with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. We encourage applications from individuals whose lived experiences and professional interests align with our institutional mission of academic excellence, access, and integrity.

Primary Location: Kendall Hall - Communication Studies
Work Locations:
Kendall Hall - Communication Studies (Kendall Hall - Communication Studies)
2000 Pennington Rd
Ewing Township, 08628


Job: Faculty
Organization: The College of New Jersey
Job Posting: Oct 7, 2026, 11:05:25 AM