Assistant Professor - Designated Position

The Faculty of Architecture and Planning invites applications for a tenure-track appointment within the School of Architecture, supported by the Dalhousie Diversity Faculty Award. The Dalhousie Diversity Faculty Awards (DDFA) program is a recruitment initiative designed to increase the number of faculty members from historically underrepresented groups. The program was introduced in 2011 in partnership with the Dalhousie Faculty Association and augmented through collective bargaining. We are looking for a scholar or practitioner who is deeply committed to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility (EDIA) within the architectural field. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of architectural education and practice at Dalhousie, bringing a perspective that addresses systemic inequities and enriches the academic and professional development of our students.

In this role, you will be responsible for developing and delivering innovative courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, with a particular focus on integrating EDIA principles into the curriculum. You will engage in research that not only advances the field of architecture but also critically examines and responds to contemporary environmental, social and technological challenges through the lens of diversity and inclusion.

This position also involves significant service commitments, including mentoring students – especially those from BIPOC and underrepresented communities – fostering an inclusive academic environment, and engaging with local communities through outreach initiatives. You will liaise between the School of Architecture and Indigenous, African Nova Scotian, Black, and other racialized communities, ensuring that our work is relevant and responsive to their needs.

As a tenure-track faculty member, you will have the opportunity to build a robust research portfolio, contribute to the governance and strategic direction of the School, and collaborate with colleagues across the university. The successful candidate will be instrumental in helping the School of Architecture fulfill its mission to produce socially responsible architects who are equipped to meet the challenges of a diverse and changing world.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Teaching: Develop and deliver courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as two design studios, with a focus on integrating diverse cultural perspectives, equity, and inclusion in architectural education.
2. Research: Engage in research that explores innovative approaches to addressing environmental, technological, and societal challenges, with a strong emphasis on equity, diversity and inclusion.
3. Service: Provide significant service contributions to the School, Faculty and the University, including participating in committees, supporting strategic initiatives, and contributing to the academic community.
4. Mentorship: Mentor students fostering their academic and professional growth, with a focus on supporting underrepresented groups in the field of architecture.
5. Community Engagement: Facilitate connections between the School of Architecture and African Nova Scotian, Indigenous, and other racialized communities. Participate in public lectures, workshops, and other events that promote the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Qualifications:

1. Education: A degree in Architecture (M. Arch or Ph.D.) or a related field. Candidates with significant professional experience and a high potential for research and practice development are also encouraged to apply.
2. Experience: Demonstrated expertise in architectural practice, research, or teaching with a focus on equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. Experience in community engagement, particularly with BIPOC and underrepresented groups, is highly valued.
3. Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse academic environment. Commitment to mentorship and fostering an inclusive climate within the School of Architecture.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. A record of publications or creative work that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in architecture, with an emphasis on EDIA principles.
2. Experience in curriculum development that incorporates diverse perspectives and addresses the needs of a diverse student body.
3. Active involvement in professional organizations and community groups dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in architecture.

Applications should include:

1. Curriculum vitae including address, telephone and e-mail
2. Cover letter
3. Teaching statement
4. Research statement
5. Sample Publication(s)
6. Dossier of scholarly publications and a portfolio of design and/or teaching work.
7. List of referees and their contact information

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. Position open until filled; interviews will begin in March 2025.

This position is a part of Dalhousie Faculty Association (DFA) Bargaining Unit.

Dalhousie University commits to achieving inclusive excellence through continually championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. In keeping with the principles of Dalhousie’s Employment Equity Plan, the position is designated to candidates who self-identify as persons of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians). Dalhousie recognizes that candidates may self-identify in more than one equity-deserving group, and in this spirit, we encourage applications from candidates who (in addition to being of Black/African descent) also identify as Indigenous persons (especially Mi’kmaq), members of other racialized groups, women, persons with a disability, and/or members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.

Note: To be eligible for this position, you must self-identify as a person of Black/African descent and/or as African Nova Scotian. For more information, including details related to our Employment Equity Policy and Plan and definitions of equity-deserving groups please visit www.dal.ca/hiringfordiversity.

If you require any support for the purpose of accommodation, such as technical aids or alternative arrangements, please let us know of these needs and how we can be of assistance. Dalhousie University is committed to ensuring all candidates have full, fair, and equitable participation in the hiring process. Our complete Accommodation Policy can be viewed here.