Assistant Professor in African American Literature

Tenure-track assistant professor, specialty in African American literature. The search is open to all subfields and all periods.

Successful applicant expected to demonstrate and maintain an active record of publication and to teach both undergraduate and graduate courses in area of specialization. In addition to African American literature, teaching assignments may include courses within candidate’s other areas of interest, with preference given to the ability to teach literature of other under-represented groups including, but not limited to, literature of the African diaspora and Afro-Latinx literature. Teaching assignment to include core English courses, such as introductory literature surveys.

In addition to offering a range of classes, the department is also seeking to build its offerings in Children’s Literature and Film and Media studies, as well as strengthening its connection to the university’s African American Studies minor. All positions are subject to availability of funds. Appointment begins Fall 2021.

Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in English or closely related field that meets accreditation requirements (18 graduate hours in English), with degree completed at time of appointment; Specialization in African American literature; Demonstrated teaching excellence; Background and/or experience commensurate with the position of assistant professor and sufficient to teach graduate courses in African American literature;

Preferred Qualifications: Demonstrated ability in scholarly research on African American literature and culture; Ability to teach literature of other under-represented groups, including (but not limited to) literature of the African diaspora and Afro-Latinx literature; Ability to teach other English courses (including introductory literature surveys, etc.).

Application Procedures: Only applications submitted through the Texas State University website will be accepted and considered, https://jobs.hr.txstate.edu/postings/34005. For full consideration, please submit the following by November 13, 2020: 1) a letter of application, 2) current curriculum vitae, 3) contact information for three references, and 4) two-page teaching philosophy.

Texas State University was designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) by the U.S. Department of Education in 2011. The designation was created to target federal appropriations for competitive funding programs assisting institutions with at least 25% Hispanic enrollment.


Since receiving the designation, Texas State has received over $48.7 million in awards from HSI targeted programs at the U.S. Department of Education (ED), National Science Foundation (NSF), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Department of Defense, and National Endowment for the Humanities. These awards impact Texas State students, faculty, research and diversity in the following ways: enhancing academic offerings, research opportunities, program quality, and institutional stability; acquiring equipment for research and education; attracting, retaining, and preparing outstanding students; and creating evidence-based and evidence-generating approaches to increase the graduation rates of students pursuing STEM degrees at HSIs.

Texas State University was designated as an Emerging Research University in 2012. 

Texas State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, committed to inclusive thought and action in support of our diverse community. Individuals from historically underrepresented groups and all those who share our commitment to inclusivity and passion for the strength of our diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Texas State University is a tobacco-free campus. Smoking and the use of any tobacco product will not be allowed anywhere on Texas State property or in university owned or leased vehicles.

Texas State University is a member of the Texas State University System. Texas State University is an EOE.


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