Tenure-Track Game Design Leader & Researcher

Utah; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Utah's Division of Games invites applications for a tenure-line Associate Professor in Game Design to begin Fall 2027. This hire will lead a nationally recognized research program and teach across undergraduate and graduate levels on the Salt Lake City campus.

Ideal candidates will advance knowledge in systems, narrative, level/world, UX/interface design, and multiplayer design, with a strong record of external funding and a commitment to mentoring students and colleagues.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in games-related field with focus on game design practice.
• Experience with design research methods including rapid prototyping and iteration.
• Peer‑reviewed research in game design areas such as gameplay or narrative.
• Broad knowledge of games and development to teach across undergraduate and graduate curricula.

Responsibilities

• Lead a nationally and internationally recognized research program.
• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses and mentor junior faculty and graduate students.
• Collaborate across divisions and drive curriculum updates, including AI in design workflows.

Skills

Design research methods

Playtesting

Data-driven evaluation

Prototyping with game engines

Education

Ph.D. in game design or related field

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Scripting tools

Job description

The University of Utah's Division of Games invites applications for a tenure-line Associate Professor in Game Design to begin Fall 2027. This hire will lead a nationally recognized research program and teach across undergraduate and graduate levels on the Salt Lake City campus.

Ideal candidates will advance knowledge in systems, narrative, level/world, UX/interface design, and multiplayer design, with a strong record of external funding and a commitment to mentoring students and colleagues.