Lecturer in Art and Media Technology FH)

Academic Opportunity: Shape the Future of Art and Technology at Winchester School of Art

Winchester School of Art, a distinguished institution and a vital part of the University of Southampton (a Russell Group member), is seeking passionate educators and researchers to join its dynamic Department of Art & Media Technology. This presents an exceptional opportunity for individuals looking to make a significant impact on interdisciplinary art and technology education.

The Department of Art & Media Technology is a vibrant hub for innovation, encompassing disciplines such as Fine Art, Contemporary Curating, Games Design, Creative Technology & Computing, Digital Media Practices, and Arts & Cultural Leadership. It fosters a politically aware and contextually astute research environment where practice-based, scholarly, and editorial processes converge.

About the Role: A Foundation for Innovation

This position is designed to bolster collaborative, research-led education within the department and expand its international research and enterprise activities. You will play a key role in:

• Enhancing the BSc Creative Computing: This newly established (2024) program is unique in its approach, grounding technical media, skills, and histories within a fine art framework. It attracts students eager to critically engage with technological practices in contemporary cultural discourse. You will be instrumental in shaping its future development.
• Contributing to MA Fine Art: The MA Fine Art program focuses on developing student-centred fine art practices across diverse media, closely aligned with staff research interests.
• Pursuing Research Excellence: You will maintain an active, practice-based, and internationally recognized research program that aligns with the department's strategic goals.
• Teaching and Mentorship: You will contribute substantially to teaching across the department, leveraging your specialisms, with an initial focus on BSc Creative Computing and MA Fine Art. Your teaching will emphasize studio practice, supported by lectures and critical theory, with a particular focus on technically-underpinned creative experiences.

What We're Looking For: A Visionary Educator and Researcher

We are seeking candidates who demonstrate:

• A profound commitment to education and the ability to integrate their own research into undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
• An established or emerging international reputation in practice-based research within the art and technology sphere.
• A track record in practice-led education and demonstrable practical skills in areas such as creating prototypes, interactive installations, and data-driven artworks.
• Specific expertise is highly valued in:
  • Contemporary interactive practice, utilizing tools such as creative coding (e.g., JavaScript, Python, Processing), Unity, web/app development, or lens-based media.
  • Theoretical and historical understanding of technology, science, culture, creativity, art, design, and/or media.

Career Advantages and Key Considerations:

This role offers a unique platform for individuals passionate about the intersection of art and technology. Key advantages for prospective candidates include:

• Impactful Contribution: Be at the forefront of a new and innovative BSc program, directly shaping its curriculum and student experience.
• Research Synergy: Integrate your practice-based research into your teaching, fostering a stimulating and relevant learning environment.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work within a department that values diverse perspectives and encourages cross-pollination of ideas across various art and technology fields.
• Reputation Building: Contribute to the international standing of a leading art school and a Russell Group university, enhancing your own academic profile.
• Supportive Environment: The University of Southampton is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all staff can thrive, offering excellent benefits and family leave.

This position is ideal for an emerging or established academic looking to bridge the gap between artistic practice and cutting-edge technology, and who is eager to contribute to the development of a forward-thinking educational institution.