The Department of Photography at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor. The position begins in August of 2026 subject to final budgetary approval. Salary is competitive with peer institutions and commensurate with quality of practice, scholarship, academic research, extent of teaching experience, and current professional standing.
Compensation: $79,690 - $83,998 per year.
Benefits information for this position can be found linked below: https://articbenguide.com/whos-eligible/
DEPARTMENT PROFILE
The Department of Photography at SAIC fosters an expansive approach to photographic practice grounded in experimentation, critical inquiry, and interdisciplinary dialogue. Offering over 60 courses annually, the department serves approximately 600 undergraduates enrolled in photography courses, with 16–20 MFA students in photography each year.
We support a wide range of media and methods, encouraging students to develop individual practices informed by research, history, and emerging technologies. Our curriculum cultivates self-directed artists, scholars, and cultural participants prepared to challenge conventions, engage contemporary issues, and shape visual culture across global contexts.
Photography students at SAIC work within a diverse and collaborative community that values innovation, critical thinking, and respectful critique. Cross-disciplinary exploration is central to our pedagogy, reinforcing a learning environment rooted in curiosity, civic responsibility, and creative exchange across cultures and disciplines.
Further information about the department can be found at https://www.saic.edu/photography.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Full-time faculty at SAIC teach undergraduate and graduate studio courses, seminars, and tutorials within a highly interdisciplinary art and design environment. Photography faculty are expected to teach across the curriculum, maintain an active professional practice, and contribute to the SAIC community through curricular development, departmental service, and school-wide governance.
QUALIFICATIONS
MFA or equivalent terminal degree preferred. Candidates should have a minimum of three years of independent, college-level teaching experience as instructor of record. Candidates should be accomplished artists with an active studio practice, a deep understanding of photographic history and theory, and technical fluency across analog, digital, and hybrid lens-based practices. Approaches that connect interdisciplinary methods to foster transferable skills and introduce students to varied creative and professional pathways are especially welcome.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate a commitment to the evolving discourse of contemporary photography and bring strong creative, technical, and professional skills. They will teach across the curriculum at all levels, from undergraduate to graduate, supporting students in conceptual growth, technical proficiency, material experimentation, and transferable skills that support multiple types of professional practice.
We seek educators who foster inclusive learning environments that expand the intellectual, cultural, and creative contributions of the field. Demonstrated experience with, or strong potential for, inclusive pedagogy, student mentorship, and academic and departmental service.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Applicants are encouraged to apply by Monday, January 19, 2026 for full consideration. Please submit application materials via https://saicfaculty.slideroom.com/#/Login. You will be asked to create an account after which time you may complete the application, which consists of fill-in fields and required documents to upload. You are encouraged to begin the application well before the priority deadline.
Complete the fields for educational background; current position; and contact information for three professional references.
Please convert all word documents into PDFs before uploading. Required files to upload include:
- cover letter outlining your interests and qualifications
- curriculum vitae
- statement of teaching philosophy including details on how your teaching has supported the success of students from a range of backgrounds
- sample syllabus for a 15-week advanced or topic-driven studio course that reflects your unique perspective, research interests, and/or theoretical concerns. This course should go beyond introductory instruction and demonstrate how your practice informs your teaching.
- artist statement describing your research and creative practice
- portfolio of creative work
All applicants for this position must complete and sign a Prior Workplace Conduct Declaration as part of their initial application materials in order to be considered as a candidate and sign a release authorizing SAIC to conduct a misconduct reference check should the candidate ultimately be selected as a finalist for the position.
QUESTIONS
Questions regarding the School and its open positions, application procedures, or the search process may be emailed to saicteach@saic.edu. Please consult www.saic.edu for information on the School and its programs, or https://www.saic.edu/about/work-at-saic for open positions and application procedures.
ABOUT SAIC
A leader in educating artists, designers, and scholars since 1866, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) offers undergraduate, graduate, and post-baccalaureate programs to students from across the globe. Located in the heart of Chicago, the School is one of the largest and oldest private schools of art and design in the country with programs reflecting current practices in art. SAIC's educational philosophy is built upon a transdisciplinary approach to art and design that provides unparalleled opportunities for students to develop their creative and critical abilities with renowned faculty who are leading practitioners in their fields. SAIC's resources include the Art Institute of Chicago and its Modern Wing, and numerous special collections and programming venues that provide students with exceptional exhibitions, screenings, lectures, and performances. The campus is located on Chicago’s magnificent lakefront amid the city’s cultural and architectural treasures.
Degree tracks include the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio; BFA with Emphasis in Art Education or Writing; BA degrees in Art History and Visual and Critical Studies; Master of Architecture; Master of Design (MDes) in Designed Objects; MFA in Fashion, Body, and Garment; MFA in Studio or Writing; MA degrees in Arts Administration; Art Education; Art History, Theory, and Criticism; Art Therapy; Teaching; Visual and Critical Studies; and a Master of Science in Historic Preservation.
