Assistant Professor – Elementary Education

Special Instructions to Applicants Review of applications will begin October 15, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Inquiries about the position can be directed to Dr. Gretchen Goode (). A completed application will include 1) a cover letter describing applicant strengths and qualifications for the position, 2) a CV, 3) the names and contact information of three individuals who can provide a recommendation, 4) a teaching philosophy, and 5) academic transcripts (unofficial are accepted but official transcripts are preferred and are necessary for hire).

Application materials can be uploaded to the HR site found here: . 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 School of Education at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) invites applicants for one (1) full-time, tenure-track, Assistant Professor position, beginning August 2027 with requirements to be present on campus. The research area of specialization for this position is open; preferred areas include math education, educational technology, or literacy education. Our faculty have established records of scholarship in culturally responsive education, multilingual learners, educational equity, multimodal composition, and inquiry, among others.

We aim to recruit applicants who will produce impactful research and who will emphasize training to initial licensure candidates in the areas of elementary education to become technologically competent, culturally responsive educators who have an impact on the learning of P-12 students. Additionally, the successful applicant will effectively enrich in-service teachers attending our master’s program in Curriculum and Instruction. Qualified applicants will be prepared to contribute to the School of Education's research, service, and teaching missions at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Southern Miss combines the research opportunities of a Carnegie R1 university with the personal connections of a close-knit, interdisciplinary academic community. New faculty join a School of Education that values meaningful scholarship, excellent teaching, cross-program collaboration, and intentional support for faculty development. The School of Education’s Curriculum and Instruction and Elementary Education programs include bachelor's and master's degrees and include face-to-face, online, and hybrid delivery formats.

Hattiesburg and the Gulf Coast campuses offer the cultural and educational amenities of a university city along with short commutes, affordable housing, historic neighborhoods, a strong local arts and restaurant community, and convenient access to New Orleans and other cities. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Developing a strong, independent research program. Collaborating with colleagues on program development and enhancement of pre-service and in-service teacher education programs.

Teaching and mentoring students across programs. Seeking external funding. Contributing to the mission of the university and profession through service activities.

Performing other duties as assigned.