Department Head of Textiles, Merchandising and Interiors

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

The College of Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS): FACS is committed to student success, holistic development and inclusive perspective taking. FACS develops leaders who focus on the science and art of helping individuals live well in a complex society. In the more than 100 years since its founding, the College has grown and now comprises four departments, one institute, several research labs and centers. Established collaborative associations with campus resources offer excellent research development opportunities. Campus research partners include the Owens Institute for Behavioral Research, The Center for Family Research, the Institute of Gerontology, the Bioimaging Research Center, the Integrated Life Sciences program, and the Biomedical and Health Sciences Institute. Additional information about FACS may be found at: https://www.fcs.uga.edu/.

The Department of Textiles, Merchandising, and Interiors (TMl): TMI is one of the four departments in the College of Family and Consumer Sciences, has more than 360 students in bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Undergraduate majors are offered in Furnishings and Interiors and Fashion Merchandising, with an emphasis on Product Development and Design. The Department is a member of the National Retail Federation and is endorsed by the American Apparel and Footwear Association. The Georgia Soft Goods Education Foundation, a board of industry professionals, provides guidance to the curriculum and scholarships for students. The graduate programs lead to a Master of Science in Textiles, Merchandising, and Interiors and a Ph.D. in Polymer, Fiber and Textile Sciences, and a Ph.D. emphasis in International Merchandising. Presently, 16 faculty members are engaged in teaching and research. The college has excellent computer laboratories for teaching and research. More information about the Department can be found at http://www.fcs.uga.edu/tmi.

Applicant screening will begin immediately. Candidates are encouraged to submit their materials by January 5, 2026; however, review of applications will continue until the position is filled. The application packet should include a cover letter detailing how the applicant's credentials and experience meet the needs, responsibilities, and qualifications stated above; a current CV; and contact information for three references. Questions about this position or the application process should be directed to Dr. Swarn Chatterjee, Chair of the Search Committee (swarn@uga.edu).

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.