The Initiative for the Arts in Collaborative Research (ACR), a partnership led by the Spencer Museum of Art (SMA), Biodiversity Institute (BI), Information and Telecommunication Technology Center (ITTC), and School of the Arts (SOTA) at the University of Kansas, invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral research position with the possibility of renewal. The ACR Initiative facilitates advanced research investigating shared question and methodologies across the arts, sciences, technology, and society. It is funded by a multi-year grant from the KU Office of the Provost.
Candidates should hold a doctorate or other terminal degree (e.g. MFA) with a demonstrated research interest in interdisciplinary exploration across the arts, sciences, and technology. The successful candidate will be actively involved with all aspects of the ACR. S/he will also have the opportunity to engage in related independent research and develop an exhibition, publication, or other research project closely related to the aims of the grant.
Required Qualifications:
Terminal degree (PhD, MFA) received within the last five years
Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary research
Demonstrated ability to work openly and effectively with higher education collaborators and the public and to work collaboratively and organize groups such as committees, teams, task forces, etc.
Strong background and experience in one or more of the following areas: science-technology-society studies; research grounded in art practice or other forms of making; artistic integration with science, medicine, or technology; interactive and digital media research and production; design aesthetics; engaged scholarship; digital humanities
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to prepare and deliver concise, understandable, and effective presentations to a wide audience as evidenced by application materials
Proficiency in MS Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Access and Outlook, web-based research tools, and social media.
Preferred Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience identifying and pursuing new forms of inquiry and integration
Willingness to engage with ideas and proposals beyond one’s field of expertise
Exceptional interpersonal skills, able to quickly develop rapport, as well as build and maintain effective long-term relationships with staff, colleagues, and volunteers
Demonstrated high level of initiative, persistence in completing assignments, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following: visualization, virtual environments, augmented reality, social computing, mobile media computing, gaming programming, data mining, database design, data integration, and geospatial technology
Application Requirements:
Cover letter
Curriculum vitae
Research statement (max. 500 words)
Sample of written work OR portfolio of creative endeavors
Names and contacts for academic and professional references.
Job Duties:
50%
Research and Collaborations:
Participate in ACR project research and development
Oversee artist/creative specialist residencies
Collaborate with partners to identify, apply, and integrate diverse methodologies
Convene and facilitate semi-annual multidisciplinary research forums
Participate in developing sustainable infrastructures for a new interdisciplinary research center
30%
Audience Development:
Contribute to public dissemination of research activities and findings
Identify and cultivate project partners
15%
Grant Writing:
Play an integral role in the ACR grant-writing team
5%
Other:
Other duties as assigned
Statement on Diversity & Inclusion:
As a premier international research university, the University of Kansas is committed to an open, diverse and inclusive learning and working environment that nurtures the growth and development of all. KU holds steadfast in the belief that an array of values, interests, experiences, and intellectual and cultural viewpoints enrich learning and our workplace. The promotion of and support for a diverse and inclusive community of mutual respect require the engagement of the entire university.
