About UMass Amherst
The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.
About the Office of the Provost and the Innovation Ecosystem
The Office of the Provost advances the University’s academic mission through excellence in teaching, research, and public service. The Office of the Vice Provost for Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Creativity leads initiatives that empower students and faculty to explore bold ideas, develop interdisciplinary collaborations, and turn discovery into impact. The INNOVATE Certificate Program fosters creativity, entrepreneurial mindset, and applied problem-solving across all disciplines.
Job Summary
The University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a non-tenure-track faculty position to serve as Director of the INNOVATE Certificate Programs in Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Creativity.
The Director provides academic and administrative leadership for the program, teaches undergraduate and graduate courses, mentors students, and builds partnerships that strengthen the University’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Essential Functions
The Director will:
- Direct and manage the Undergraduate and Graduate INNOVATE Certificate Programs, including curriculum development, assessment, and coordination among participating colleges.
- Teach introductory and advanced courses in innovation and entrepreneurship, including capstone and launchpad experiences, across on-campus and online modalities.
- Recruit, advise, and mentor students in the program, cultivating an inclusive learning community.
- Collaborate with UMass Makerspace, campus partners, industry, and alumni to expand experiential learning opportunities.
- Support diversity, equity, and inclusion through mentoring, community-building, and accessible innovation pathways.
- Contribute to the development of curricular offerings and initiatives in Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Creativity.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- Master’s degree in innovation, entrepreneurship or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated professional or academic experience in innovation, entrepreneurship, or experiential education.
- Record of effective teaching and student mentorship.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- Doctorate or equivalent terminal degree in a related field.
- Experience directing or developing academic programs or certificate initiatives.
- Evidence of successful partnerships with industry or entrepreneurial organizations.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in teaching and student engagement.
Additional Details
- This is a full-time, nine-month academic-year appointment at the Lecturer rank (non-tenure-track).
- Teaching load will be adjusted to reflect program-director responsibilities.
Salary Information
- Expected hiring range: $106,000–$115,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- This position is covered by the collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Massachusetts Society of Professors (MSP/MTA/NEA).
Special Instructions to Applicants
Along with the application, please submit the following:
- Cover Letter – outlining qualifications and interest in the position.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – detailing education, professional experience, and accomplishments.
- Teaching Statement – addressing philosophy, inclusive pedagogy, and student engagement.
- Statement on Program Leadership – describing experience or vision for developing and managing innovation-focused academic programs.
- Contact information for three (3) professional references.
Review of applications will begin February 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2026.
Contributions to the University’s Values and Strategic Goals
At UMass Amherst, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. You can find these values and goals in our strategic plan here: https://www.umass.edu/strategicplan/strategic-plan. Based on our stated values, please tell us in your teaching and/or service statement, how you see yourself contributing to the Common Good in our community.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.