Assistant Professor of African American Literature

The English Department in the College of Arts & Sciences at Seattle University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in African American Literature.  Secondary expertise in critical race theory is desirable.  Appointment begins September 2020.

Successful candidates will have a commitment to excellence in teaching and a demonstrated ability to teach at all undergraduate levels.  Candidate will be primarily responsible for developing gateway and upper-division courses in literature, as well as University Core courses for non-majors.  Candidates may have the opportunity to teach in related programs, such as Global African Studies, Film Studies, and Women and Gender Studies.  Candidates should have evidence of an active scholarly agenda.  Responsibilities also include service to the college and university.

The academic program and community in English are committed to intersectional teaching, scholarship, and community building, and Seattle University serves an increasingly diverse undergraduate community in the heart of Seattle, WA.  Preferred candidates will demonstrate an ability to work effectively with students from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and an ability to collaborate with colleagues in the development of literary studies courses focused on the intersection of race, class, gender, sexuality, and social justice.

Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in English, African American Studies, or equivalent field with a specialization in African American Literature, received by June 30, 2020.  Record of teaching excellence at the undergraduate level, with a commitment to supporting student work. 

Preferred Qualifications: Preference will be given to candidates with expertise in critical race theory, a demonstrated ability to teach race in US literature at large as well as in area of specialization, a commitment to engaging with students and developing curricular offerings, and a strong record of publications representative of the position.

Seattle University, founded in 1891, is a Jesuit Catholic University located on 50 acres in Seattle’s Capitol Hill.  More than 7,200 students are enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs within nine schools and colleges.  U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Colleges 2019” ranks Seattle University 8th in the West among universities that offer a full range of masters and undergraduate programs. Seattle University is an equal opportunity employer.

In support of its pursuit of academic and scholarly excellence, Seattle University is committed to creating a diverse community of students, faculty and staff that is dedicated to the fundamental principles of equal opportunity and treatment in education and employment regardless of age, color, disability, gender identity, national origin, political ideology, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. The university encourages applications from, and nominations of, individuals whose differing backgrounds, beliefs, ideas and life experiences will further enrich the diversity of its educational community.

Applicants should submit materials online at https://www.seattleu.edu/careers/. To ensure full consideration all applicants must submit the following: curriculum vitae; letter of application that demonstrates qualifications for this position including commitment to diversity and Seattle University’s mission, values, and vision; statement of teaching philosophy; scholarly writing sample; names and contact information for three referees—letters may be solicited upon submission of application. First consideration will be given to applications completed by October 18, 2019.  Inquiries about the position may be made to Dr. Charles Tung, Chair of English, tungc@seattleu.edu.