Assistant/Associate Professor of Simulation Science, Games & Animation

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ, invites applications for a full-time faculty position (Assistant or Associate rank) specializing in Game Development. Our Simulation Science, Games & Animation (SSGA) Department seeks an innovative educator with hands-on experience in designing and producing interactive experiences using industry-standard game engines.

The ideal candidate will guide students through foundational and advanced coursework, culminating in a final capstone project integrating multiple program disciplines into cohesive, user-centric, and original work. They will collaborate with faculty to prepare students to excel in interactive entertainment, immersive training, and data-informed predictive simulations across any domain, including aerospace and aviation visualization and emerging XR applications.

Teaching Opportunities:
Depending on expertise and departmental needs, you may teach a variety of courses, including:

• Foundations of Object-Oriented Game Development - Core programming concepts for modern game technology; iterative prototyping and debugging.
• Game Design Workshop - Conceptualizing, prototyping, and playtesting original games; the playcentric design process.
• Multi-Player Game Systems - Networked, persistent virtual environments using server-side scripting and cloud databases.
• Game Engine Architecture - Software architecture in the context of game engine design patterns, SOLID object-oriented design, and test-driven development.
• Game Production - Advanced game mechanics, agile project management, and full-cycle development.
• Mixed Reality Environments- Immersive VR/AR experiences, spatial computing interfaces, and user-centric XR design.
• Artificial Intelligence for Games - AI-driven movement, decision-making, learning, and procedural generation.
• User Interface Design- Effective interface design principles, UI animation, user experience strategies, and multi-platform pipeline protocols.
• Modeling & Simulation- Advanced simulation concepts, object-oriented programming, and real-world complex system analysis.
• Senior Capstone Projects - Multi-semester team projects emphasizing real-world production pipelines and public showcases.

In these and related courses, you will mentor students on game development's creative, technical, and experiential aspects, culminating in showcase events and portfolio demonstrations highlighting student work.

Additional Responsibilities

• On-Campus Presence: Maintain a consistent present on campus to collaborate with colleagues, mentor students, and support day-to-day departmental activities.
• Program & Curriculum Development: Participate in continuous improvement of course materials, contribute to the evolution of the SSGA program, and stay abreast of industry trends in game design and interactive media.
• University & Departmental Service: Participate in activities such as committee work, outreach initiatives, and recruitment events to support the program's growth and visibility.

• Doctorate/Terminal Degree in Game Development or a closely related field, OR a Master's degree and significant industry experience in a related area.
• Extensive, hands-on experience designing, building, and producing interactive experiences using an industry-standard game engine (e.g., Unity, Unreal is essential, Unity preferred)
• A commitment to project-based learning with a track record or keen interest in mentoring students in portfolio development and public exhibitions.
• Evidence of potential excellence in teaching or instructional effectiveness in higher education, particularly in team-based, interdisciplinary settings.
• A research record or potential research agenda in game design and development or related fields; interest in pursuing external funding and involving undergraduates is a plus.
• A portfolio showcasing professional or academic game design projects is preferred to demonstrate creative, technical, and leadership capabilities.

Application Instructions
Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum vitae (include three references)
• A portfolio of work is preferred.
• Statement of teaching philosophy preferred.
• Description of research program or interest and alignment with SSGA mission (if applicable)
• Any additional material you wish to include.

Position to start in August 2025
Priority will be given to completed applications received by April 10, 2025.

Join Embry-Riddle's Simulation Science, Games & Animation department and help shape the next generation of creative technologists, fostering a dynamic environment where students thrive through hands-on projects, innovative research, and an active on-campus community. We look forward to your application!