"Assistant Professor of Ethnic Studies - African American/Black Studies"

The Ethnic Studies Department in the College of Liberal Arts at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California, is seeking applications for a full-time, academic-year, tenure-track Assistant Professor to begin August 17, 2026. Area of Specialization (AOS): African American Studies with preferences in Black Feminisms and/or Queer/Trans Black Studies. Special teaching needs might include: Introduction to African American Studies, African American Popular Culture, and/or African American Gender, Queer, and Trans Studies. Depending on Ethnic Studies Department teaching needs and the candidate’s teaching interests, the successful candidate would also teach other general education and major courses in the department. Candidates must have completed a Ph.D. in Ethnic Studies, African American Studies, Black Studies, or a related field at the time of appointment which starts in fall 2026. The successful candidates will present an excellent teaching record, be able to teach survey courses, and sustain an active publication agenda.

Salary: Anticipated Hiring Range: $90,276 - $98,244/year, $7,523 - $8,187/month (Note that hiring level will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the candidate.)

Although Cal Poly is primarily a teaching university, our faculty are expected to balance teaching with an active program of research/professional development (including publication), student supervision and advising, and participation in service activities at the department and college/university level. The typical teaching load is 12 units per semester, with a reduction in course load in each of the first two years to help new faculty establish an active program of research and professional development.

Subject to further planning and approval, Cal Poly anticipates a possible transition to semester-based year-round operations (YRO). Under YRO, full-time academic year faculty may be assigned to teach in two consecutive semesters (Fall/Spring, Spring/Summer, or Summer/Fall) out of the three semesters offered annually. The two-semester sequence will constitute the regular academic year appointment. Faculty may also be eligible to teach in the third semester for additional compensation, subject to departmental needs and University policy.