Lehigh University

The Small Cities Lab at Lehigh University invites applications for the position of the inaugural Small Cities Fellow – a unique opportunity to engage in an immersive, hands-on role at the intersection of research, teaching, and community-based design practice. This newly established position will be a full-time 12-month appointment renewable for a second year pending continuing need. The position will begin July 1, 2025. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled, with preference given to applications received before May 9, 2025.

The Small Cities Lab is a new research unit based in Lehigh University’s College of Arts and Sciences and Department of Art, Architecture, and Design.  The Lab works with municipalities, non-profit organizations, allied industries, and resident stakeholders to develop a deeper understanding of the most pressing challenges facing small-to-mid sized cities. Aiming to bridge the knowledge and resource gaps typically found in these cities, the Lab’s work blends architectural design, spatial analysis, policy research, and community-facing teaching.

Key Responsibilities

The Small Cities Fellow responsibilities will include teaching, research, and design practice. Fellows will work closely with faculty and undergraduate and graduate students on active Lab projects while also developing a research initiative of their own aligned with the Lab’s mission. Key responsibilities include:

  • Research and Design Practice
    • Collaborate on ongoing design and urban research within ongoing Small Cities Lab initiatives. Active projects include a statewide housing survey of small cities to inform land-use change in Pennsylvania ; a faith-based housing advocacy and design initiative; and a community-driven urban design and advocacy project to enhance the wellbeing of people with disabilities in small cities nationwide.
    • Provide design practice support for ongoing Small Cities Lab initiatives, including a pilot accessory dwelling unit program in Bethlehem, PA.
    • Develop and lead an independent, Lab-related research project with support from the Small Cities Lab and community partners.
    • Participate in community engagement and project-based partnerships central to the Lab’s mission.
  • Teaching
    • Teach 3 courses each academic year, including early-career core undergraduate design studios and upper-level seminars or capstone studios.
    • Offer support and mentorship for students in alignment with the Small Cities Lab teaching ethos, helping connect the design studio to community-defined issues aligned with ongoing Lab research projects.

Qualifications

  • A professional or post-professional degree in architecture, urban design, planning, or a related discipline.
  • Demonstrated experience in design practice, urban research, and community-engaged work.
  • A strong interest in the social, spatial, and political dynamics of small cities, towns, and boroughs.
  • Teaching experience is strongly preferred, though not required.
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, coordination, and organizational skills.

Compensation

Compensation will include a salary of $72,000 and standard Lehigh University benefits. More benefits information can be found at: https://hr.lehigh.edu/benefits-rewards

Application Requirements, Deadline, and Contact

Please prepare and submit the following materials to the email addresses below:

  • A cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience, including a brief statement of how your research interests align with the Small Cities Lab mission.
  • CV and portfolio of design, research, and teaching work.
  • Names and contact information for three references (references will be contacted only after the interview process for screening purposes.)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Because of the July 1, 2025 start date for the position, preference will be given to applications received before May 9, 2025.

Applications and questions should be addressed to Wes Hiatt and Karen Beck Pooley, Small Cities Lab Co-Directors, and sent to wmh221@lehigh.edu and kbp312@lehigh.edu

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