From Rich Gordon, chair of the multimedia search committee at the Medill School of Journalism, Northwestern University (for questions, contact him at richgor@northwestern.edu):

The Medill School at Northwestern University is seeking to hire two faculty members in multimedia journalism. It’s an exciting time here as we revamp the school’s curriculum to prepare students for 21st century journalism careers. As recently as two years ago, a student could complete his or her studies at Medill without ever being required to produce a story in a form other than text. Now all students are expected to develop proficiency in still photography, audio, video and online journalism. All of them must bring audio recorders, video cameras and laptop computers with multimedia production software.

Our new curricula call for all students to develop visual literacy, build multimedia storytelling skills and prepare themselves for a world where content and advertising are “pulled” by consumers rather than “pushed” by media companies.

Multimedia Journalism
The Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University seeks an outstanding professional or scholar who can teach sophisticated multimedia journalism to graduate and undergraduate students. The person we seek must be a hands-on multimedia journalist, meaning he or she is proficient with the tools but more importantly is able to use them and teach students how to use them to create effective journalism. More than craft, however, we seek a person with a vision of the future and the ability to do original theoretical or applied research and contribute thought leadership to the academy and the professions. Faculty rank and track (tenure or non-tenure) are open. Both professionals and academics can earn tenure at Medill; criteria for promotion and tenure are available from the School. Thus, while a Ph.D. is preferred for this position, it is not necessary. As always, global interest and/or experience is a plus at Medill.

Anticipated start is September 2008, but an earlier start is possible. To ensure full consideration, applications must be received no later than Jan. 15, 2008. Send letter, c.v. / resume and a statement of teaching philosophy to Search Committee, Medill School of Journalism, 1845 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Ill. 60208-2101, or to medillfacultysearch@northwestern.edu. Northwestern University is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the United States.

Knight Chair in Multimedia Journalism
In addition to this position, we continue to search for good candidates for the Knight Chair in Multimedia Journalism. This position is specifically geared to “an outstanding professional who has a distinguished reputation in multimedia journalism.” A fuller description of the position (as well as other available positions at Medill) can be found here. Applications for the Knight chair may also be sent to medillfacultysearch@northwestern.edu.