"Assistant Professor of Comparative American Studies"

Job Summary

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.

Responsibilities

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.

Required qualifications

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. Oberlin is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the distinctiveness and excellence of our academic community through their research, teaching, and service. The incumbent will bring understanding of/or experience working with underrepresented and diverse academic populations. Oberlin recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran's status, and/or other protected status as required by law.

Compensation

Within the range established for this position, salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and includes a competitive benefits package.

Special instructions to applicant

All application materials must be submitted electronically through Oberlin College and Conservatory's online application process at: https://jobs.oberlin.edu/. A complete application will be comprised of:

1. A cover letter describing your teaching, scholarship, mentorship, and service, detailing how you contribute to an inclusive learning environment;
2. A Curriculum Vitae;
3. An unofficial graduate transcript;
4. Statement(s) on your teaching philosophy and expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion;
5. A research statement that includes how you will support undergraduate research and, if applicable, how you might incorporate undergraduate students into your research program;
6. Letters of Reference from three recommenders;
7. A writing sample (15-20pp)

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.