Faculty Position (Open Rank) in Mass Communication

Faculty Position (Open Rank) in Mass Communication (Open Subfield; AI and Research Methods Emphasis)

Position Summary

The Department of Media and Communications invites applications for a full-time faculty position (open rank) in Mass Communication (open subfield) with demonstrated expertise in AI-assisted research, computational social science, advanced quantitative and qualitative methodologies, and research software training. This is a three-year renewable appointment beginning August 2026 (or January 2027).

Strategic Focus

We seek a scholar with a demonstrated record of high-impact Scopus-indexed publications and advanced expertise in computational social science, AI-assisted research design, large-scale content analysis, and quantitative and qualitative data integration. Technical proficiency should include tools such as Python, R, API-based data extraction, web scraping, bibliometric analysis, machine-assisted coding, and advanced qualitative platforms (e.g., NVivo, MAXQDA, AI-assisted workflows). This faculty member will function not only as an independent researcher but as a multiplier of research productivity within the College. The role includes structured faculty mentoring, collaborative publication development, and regular AI-in-research training seminars designed to systematically elevate CSS research output and methodological sophistication.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in research methods, computational communication, AI and media, statistics, and related subjects.
• Maintain an active research agenda with publication in high-impact journals.
• Mentor graduate students in advanced methodological research.
• Conduct faculty workshops on research software and AI applications.
• Contribute to service and strategic research initiatives within the College.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Mass Communication, Media Studies, Communication, or closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in computational social science, AI-assisted research, and advanced methodological approaches.
• Strong publication record or clear trajectory toward high-impact publications.

The College of Social Sciences

The College of Social Science has a faculty of 27 full-time and more than ten part-time faculty members and six dedicated administrative staff. Apart from the Department of Media and Communications, the College includes the departments of Economics, Public Administration and International Relations and Regional Studies. 

KIMEP University

KIMEP University is the leading American-style, internationally-accredited, English-speaking academic institution in the Commonwealth of Independent States. It provides a world-class academic experience and a unique international environment to all its students and faculty members. KIMEP University was established in 1992 and has built a very strong regional reputation as a leading provider of higher education. All graduate and undergraduate programs are accredited by at least one recognized international accreditation agency. Academic programs are regularly rated at the top of national ranking.

Almaty, Kazakhstan

The city of Almaty is situated at the base of the majestic Tien Shan Mountains in Southeast Kazakhstan. About two million people live in or near Almaty which is the financial, cultural and cosmopolitan capital of Kazakhstan with outstanding summer and winter sports facilities. Kazakhstan is located at the heart of Eurasia with important commercial inroads bridging Asia and Europe. As part of the Silk Road of the 21^st century, Kazakhstan offers unique positions in oil and gas, economic development, and trade. Kazakhstan's dynamically changing economic, social, educational and cultural environment provides incredible opportunities for significant and original research. 

Compensation

Rank and salary are competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. Compensation after ­tax compares favorably with net salaries in western countries.

Limited on campus housing is available to rent or help in finding off campus housing in addition to salary, a benefit package includes basic healthcare insurance, reduced tuition rates for KIMEP courses, and subsidy for relocation allowance. New faculty members are provided with a reduced teaching schedule during the first semester. Summer paid teaching is typically available. 

The salary will be subject to deduction of taxes (10% Personal Income tax in general) as required by the Law of Kazakhstan. 

Application Process

Please submit your application and the following documents to KIMEP University HR Portal. Click Apply button above to access.

• Filled out and submitted application form.
• Cover letter that indicates the position applied, how you meet the minimum and preferred qualifications, course(s) you can teach, and salary expectations in Kazakhstani currency (KZT) gross.
• A full academic CV 

Closing dates for submission of applications: May 17, 2026 (11:59 pm based on Almaty time). Applications received before the deadline are guaranteed full consideration.

Personal data provided by applicants will be kept confidential and used for recruitment purpose only.

Only short­listed candidates will be informed and invited for interviews.

Address any related questions to our HR department: recruitment@kimep.kz