University of Toronto Mississauga Seeks Assistant Professor in Game Studies

Position Overview

The Department of English and Drama at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) is inviting applications for a full-time, tenure-stream Assistant Professor role focused on Game Studies. This opportunity is set to commence on July 1, 2027.

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

UTM is committed to promoting diversity and equity within its community. In alignment with the Statement on Equity, Diversity & Excellence, the university encourages applications from candidates belonging to Black, Indigenous, and other Racialized groups, recognizing their historic and ongoing challenges in academia.

Qualifications Required

Candidates must possess a PhD in English, Media Studies, Comparative Literature, Cinema Studies, or a related discipline by the time of hire. We are particularly interested in individuals who have a demonstrated track record of research and teaching excellence within Game Studies. The ideal applicant will have a humanities-based perspective, emphasizing narratives and world-building in both digital and analog gaming contexts.

We seek candidates capable of bridging critical analysis with the practical aspects of game design, and whose research engages with areas such as narrative theory, game history, and cultural studies, among others. A creative practice in narrative design is considered an asset.

Research and Teaching Excellence

Evidence of research excellence is essential, which may be shown through publications in top-tier journals, conference presentations, and positive evaluations from referees. Candidates are encouraged to submit relevant samples of their creative work.

Excellence in teaching will be evaluated based on a comprehensive teaching dossier that includes a detailed teaching statement, course materials, evaluation reports, and strong recommendations.

Responsibilities of the Role

The chosen candidate will be responsible for spearheading independent and innovative research while establishing a competitive and externally funded research program. The successful appointee will also handle both undergraduate and graduate-level teaching, contribute to PhD dissertation supervision, and engage in community service across both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

In particular, the candidate will contribute to the ongoing development and administration of the Game Studies programs at UTM.

Compensation Details

The salary for this position ranges from $120,000 to $140,000 CAD annually, depending on qualifications and experience. There is room for negotiation for exceptionally qualified applicants.

About the University and Community

Joining this position means becoming part of a vibrant scholarly community at one of Canada's premier universities. UTM is a component of the dynamic tri-campus University of Toronto, which emphasizes collaborative, interdisciplinary scholarship. It also boasts unique resources in Game Studies, including the renowned Syd Bolton Collection, recognized as one of the most extensive gaming research archives globally.

The Greater Toronto Area provides diverse cultural and demographic experiences, alongside a high standard of living, and access to a vibrant game development sector.

Application Requirements

All application materials must be submitted by November 2, 2026. Applicants should apply online and include a cover letter, a current CV, a research statement, a writing sample, a teaching dossier, and evidence of contributions to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

• Cover letter
• Current Curriculum Vitae
• Research Statement detailing interests
• Recent Writing Sample
• Statement on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
• Teaching Dossier that includes:
• Teaching Statement
• Sample Course Materials and Teaching Evaluations
• Contact Information for Three References

The University employs a system that will gather reference letters shortly after the application submission, but candidates need to ensure that their referees provide updated letters by the deadline. For full application guidelines, the candidate FAQ can be found here.

Contact Information

For questions regarding the position, Professor Jacob Gallagher-Ross, Chair of the Department of English and Drama, can be contacted at [email protected].

Inclusivity in Recruitment

UTM values a diverse workforce and prioritizes applications from Canadian citizens and permanent residents. The university promotes a culture of belonging that is bolstered by various perspectives and experiences.

As part of the application, candidates will encounter a brief Diversity Survey, which is entirely voluntary and confidential for institutional enhancement purposes. Further information on the University of Toronto's approach to diversity can be found here.

Accessibility Commitment

The University strives to offer an equitable and inclusive environment and is dedicated to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Accommodations can be arranged upon request for applicants with disabilities during the application process.

To reach out for accommodations, please contact [email protected].