The University of Iowa’s Division of Interdisciplinary Programs invites applications for a 100% Visiting Assistant Professor in Museum Studies for the 2025-2026 academic year.  Duties of this position include teaching 4 classes per semester and include one in-person section and one online section of MUSM:3001 (Introduction to Museum Studies) each semester, as well as courses related to exhibition development, public education, and museum administration in fulfillment of the Museum Studies undergraduate certificate. The successful candidate will collaborate with colleagues and will serve on the Museum Studies Advisory Committee for the program, as well as other responsibilities as needed. The start date of this position is August 20, 2025. 

The University of Iowa’s Museum Studies program has a long and proud history on campus with courses offered continuously since 1910. The undergraduate certificate in Museum Studies requires 18 s.h. of coursework, including an internship of 150 hours, with the flexibility to complete coursework in-person or online and the opportunity to engage with and learn from museum professionals and faculty. After completing this robust and interdisciplinary program, University of Iowa Museum Studies students have become directors, curators, educators, and exhibit specialists in museums throughout the country. On campus, faculty and students have access to a wide variety of museums and related resources, including the following University of Iowa museums: the Museum of Natural History, the Stanley Museum of Art, the Old Capitol Museum, the Medical Museum, and the Karro Athletic Hall of Fame. The Museum Studies program also maintains close connections with a number of local, community-based museums and organizations.

The program is housed in the Division of Interdisciplinary Programs which is a part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Iowa. The program and college are strongly committed to fostering a welcoming and respectful academic and work environment; the strategic plans of the University and College reflect this commitment.

This is a one year, 100% time, non-tenure track position with benefits, with the possibility of extension up to a total of three years. Candidates must have the ability to teach undergraduate courses in Museum Studies (history and philosophy of museums, exhibition design, interpretation, audience engagement, etc.) and be able to mentor students pursuing careers in a range of disciplines and institutions (e.g. museums of art, history, natural history, science, technology, etc.).

To apply for this position, visit the University of Iowa jobs website at http://jobs.uiowa.edu, requisition #75528. Applications must include the following: 

• Cover letter


• CV


• Teaching philosophy (no more than 2 pages)


• A list of three references

Review of applications begin on March 10th and will continue until the position is filled. Questions may be directed to alejandra-romano-mcclain@uiowa.edu.

The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences

• Applicants must have a terminal degree (i.e. PhD, MFA) in hand by August 20, 2025.

• At least 2 years’ professional experience (i.e. at a museum, gallery, repository, archives).


• Teaching experience at the university level

• Hold a PhD in Museum Studies, Anthropology, Art History, or other relevant field.


• 3 or more years’ professional experience (i.e. at a museum, gallery, repository, archives).


• Experience teaching undergraduate courses in Museum Studies topics in-person and online.