"Assistant Professor of Comparative American Studies"

The Department of Comparative American Studies at Oberlin College invites applications for a full-time tenure-track faculty position in the College of Arts and Sciences in the area of Asian American studies beginning Fall 2026. Desired specializations include Asian American history, comparative approaches to race and ethnicity, critical geography, and interdisciplinary research methods. The department welcomes candidates with interdisciplinary degrees, whether in American Studies or a related/cognate field such as Ethnic Studies, along with candidates with degrees in History and other social sciences.

The Department of Comparative American Studies at Oberlin takes an interdisciplinary approach to exploring histories, communities, and cultural practices in the United States. We examine the role of the nation in domestic and global contexts while also studying social experience and community formation from the ground up. Our department places particular emphasis on the comparative study of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality through archival, ethnographic, visual, and theoretical approaches and has a commitment to community-based learning, research, and public engagement.

The incumbent will teach the standard teaching load (4.5 courses per year) in the general area of American and Asian American Studies. They must also be prepared for a teaching rotation that includes introductory courses in American and Asian American studies, Asian American history, theories and methods in American studies, and intermediate and upper division courses in the incumbent’s area of specialization.

The incumbent will also be expected to engage in sustained scholarly research and/or other creative work appropriate to the position and participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising, mentoring undergraduate research and service on committees. The Department and College actively support new faculty with mentoring and professional development opportunities, including a paid pre-tenure leave for those on the standard six-year track, startup support, and internal grants for conference travel and research.

Among the qualifications required for appointment is the PhD degree (in hand or expected by first semester of academic year 2026-27). Candidates must demonstrate commitment to and potential excellence in undergraduate teaching.

By providing three letters of reference, you agree that we may contact your letter writers via the applicant tracking system.

Review of applications will begin on October 15, and will continue until the position is filled. Completed applications received by the October 15 deadline will be guaranteed full consideration.

Questions about the position can be addressed to: gperez@oberlin.edu, Chair or by phone at 440-775-8982.