Assistant Teaching Professor of Portuguese Studies

Job Details

The Department of World Languages and Cultures at the University of Massachusetts Lowell invites applications for a full-time, non-tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Teaching Professor of Portuguese Studies. The successful candidate will play a central role in sustaining and strengthening Portuguese language instruction at UMass Lowell, supporting program growth, and advancing the mission of the Saab Center for Portuguese Studies as a core faculty affiliate.

This position is teaching-focused and is designed for a faculty member who is deeply committed to undergraduate education, student engagement, and community-connected learning.

Primary Responsibilities:

Teaching:

The standard teaching load for this position is 3 courses per semester (3–3). The successful candidate will teach undergraduate courses in Portuguese language, literature, and culture, including Portuguese 1–4 and upper-level (3000–4000) courses in Lusophone culture, literature, and related topics, taught in Portuguese or English as appropriate.

The Assistant Teaching Professor is expected to demonstrate excellence through thoughtful course design, inclusive pedagogy, and evidence-based instructional practices that support student learning and persistence. Candidates should be prepared to teach students with diverse backgrounds and learning goals and to foster a supportive, student-centered classroom environment.

Student Engagement and Advising:

A core expectation of this position is active engagement with students beyond the classroom. Responsibilities include advising undergraduate students in Portuguese, mentoring them academically and professionally, and supporting recruitment, retention, and program growth. The candidate will serve as a faculty advisor to relevant student organizations and promote study abroad opportunities in Lusophone countries, guiding students through preparation, participation, and post-experience integration.

Service and Community Engagement:

The Assistant Teaching Professor will engage in service at the department, college, and university levels, with particular emphasis on advancing the academic and community-engaged mission of the Saab Center for Portuguese Studies. Service will include initiatives that enhance the visibility and impact of Portuguese Studies at UMass Lowell; outreach to local Portuguese American communities; and engagement with regional and international Lusophone organizations. The Assistant Teaching Professor will also contribute to program development, student pathways, and strategic initiatives that strengthen both the Portuguese curriculum and the broader engagement work of the Center.

Preferred Areas of Expertise:

Area of specialization is open. Preference will be given to candidates who can contribute to multiple areas of the curriculum and who bring experience in innovative language teaching, experiential or community-engaged learning, and student-centered pedagogy. Familiarity with ACTFL standards and second-language proficiency assessment is desirable.

Commitment to Inclusive Excellence:

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is committed to building a diverse and inclusive academic community. We seek candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusive teaching practices and who can contribute to the university’s goals of equity, access, and student success.

Minimum Qualifications (Required)

• Ph.D. in Portuguese Studies
• Native or near-native proficiency in Portuguese and English
• Demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching in Portuguese language and/or Lusophone studies
• Evidence of effective student engagement and inclusive pedagogy
• Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations and community partners

Preferred Qualifications:

• Evidence of experience building or strengthening Portuguese Studies or related language programs, including curriculum development, enrollment growth, or community partnerships
• Experience with heritage language learners and pathways that support recruitment, retention, and student success
• Experience working with international or cultural foundations that support Portuguese language and Lusophone studies
• Experience collaborating with diplomatic or cultural offices on educational or cultural programming
• Experience with K–12 instruction, teacher professional development, or outreach to heritage language programs and schools

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Review of applications will begin immediately, and continue until the position is filled. However, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications is received.

Employment is contingent upon completion of a successful background and CORI check, and verification of credentials.

This position is full-time, benefited and in the MSP union. Anticipated salary based on qualifications is Anticipated salary, based on the qualifications/rank for Assistant Teaching Professor in Portuguese Studies will be $75,000 - $80,000.

Please include the following required documents with your application:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness
• Names and contact information of three references will be required during the application process.

The University of Massachusetts Lowell welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.