Assistant Professor in Digital Journalism
KIMEP University
Academic unit: Department of Media and Communications at the College of Social Sciences
Faculty Position: Assistant professor in Digital Journalism
Contract: Full-time
Start Date: January, 2027 / August, 2027
Position Summary
The Department of Media and Communications in the College of Social Sciences at KIMEP University invites applications for a full-time Assistant Professor position in Digital Journalism.
We are seeking an innovative scholar with a record of teaching and research, especially within the context of the role of journalism and critical social issues.
This is a three-year renewable appointment. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching, active engagement in research, and a commitment to service at the departmental and university levels.
Minimum Qualifications
Professional experience in international journalism or news room management is an advantage.
ABD candidates will be considered if the degree will be conferred before the start date. A letter from the dissertation committee chair confirming a scheduled defense date must be included in the application.
Key Responsibilities
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in digital journalism.
- Integrate research-based teaching strategies.
- Develop a research agenda with potential for publication.
- Supervise and mentor students in academic and professional development.
- Contribute to curriculum development and departmental initiatives aligned with media industry trends.
- Additional duties include managing and mentoring student journalist in the production of the monthly student newspaper, KIMEP Voice.
- Participate in departmental, university, and professional service activities.
Required Qualifications
- Doctorate in Journalism, Mass Media, Media Studies, Communication, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas: print or video journalism.
- Commitment to student-centered, research-informed pedagogy.
- Language: English (native or proficient level)
Preferred Qualifications
- Professional experience in international journalism.
- Experience designing and delivering courses that connect theory with real-world media practice.
- Interdisciplinary research experience and public engagement.
- Ability to work across academic disciplines and with diverse communities.
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary (subject to 10% personal income tax under Kazakhstani law).
- Relocation allowance and basic healthcare coverage.
- Subsidized housing on or near campus, subject to availability.
- Reduced teaching load during the first semester.
- Opportunities for summer teaching with additional pay.
Application Process
Please apply through the KIMEP University HR Portal and upload the following materials:
- Completed application form.
- Cover letter outlining qualifications, research interests, and teaching philosophy.
- Curriculum vitae with contact information for three referees.
- Statement of teaching philosophy with examples of research-based instruction.
- Research statement and up to five representative publications.
- Student teaching evaluations from the last two semesters.
Application deadline: 15 November, 2026 (11:59 PM Almaty time)
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, but those submitted by the deadline will receive full consideration.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. All submitted materials will be treated confidentially and used only for recruitment purposes.
For inquiries, please contact our HR Office at: recruitment@kimep.kz
About the Department of Media and Communications (DMC)
The Department of Media and Communications (DMC) is one of the most vibrant academic units at KIMEP University. It offers a Bachelor of Journalism with two majors: Digital Journalism and Public Relations and Advertising, as well as a Minor in Digital Filmmaking. At the graduate level, DMC prepares students through its Master of International Journalism program. DMC has a fully equipped Media Lab with video studio and a podcast facility. KIMEP Voice is a professional practice model newspaper run by students and supervised by faculty that is published monthly.
About the College of Social Sciences
The College of Social Sciences is comprised of four departments—Media and Communications, Economics, Public Administration, and Political Science and International Relations. All classes are taught in English. CSS is the second largest college at KIMEP with students with a population of about 700-900 students from twenty-five countries.
About KIMEP University
KIMEP University is the leading English language, American-style university in Central Asia with a total enrollment of 3000 students. Established in 1992, KIMEP offers internationally accredited academic programs and a vibrant multicultural environment. The university has a strong reputation across the region for academic excellence and student success. KIMEP University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Almaty, Kazakhstan. Established in 1992, KIMEP University (KIMEP) is a coeducational institution and is officially recognized by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan. KIMEP provides programs and courses leading to officially recognized higher education degrees, such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.