"Clarence Ward and Ellen B. Weiss '57 Postdoctoral Fellow in Modern Architectural History"

Job Summary

The Department of Art History at Oberlin College invites applications for the Clarence Ward and Ellen B. Weiss '57 Postdoctoral Fellowship in Modern Architectural History, a full-time non-continuing faculty position in the College of Arts and Sciences. Initial appointment to this position will be for a term of two years [4 semesters], beginning fall 2026. Agreement between the department and the incumbent can renew the position for a third year as Visiting Assistant Professor of Modern Architectural History.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will teach a total of two courses annually in the general area of modern and contemporary architectural history. One of these will be an introductory survey course which must include material prior to the twentieth century. The other will be at the intermediate or advanced level, on a topic of the candidate's choice. This teaching load is intended to provide time for the postdoctoral fellow to research and write, as well as take advantage of the Department's and the College's support for pedagogical, scholarly, and professional development. The successful candidate is also encouraged to make use of an endowed fund in architectural history, named for Clarence Ward, which can be used to organize conferences, invite distinguished speakers, or facilitate other initiatives to improve the scope and rigor of the teaching of architectural history at Oberlin. If renewed for a third year as Visiting Assistant Professor, the candidate will teach five courses in the year of appointment: an introductory course repeated in the fall and spring semesters; two intermediate courses; and an advanced seminar.

The Department recognizes that modern architectural history is a capacious, dynamic field which considers high and vernacular practice, urbanism and public space, landscape architecture, the environment, industrial design, and theory and criticism. We are open to scholars working in any period or region after ca. 1750, and especially those whose teaching and scholarship explore diverse and intersecting perspectives, methodologies, and geographies.

Required Qualifications

Among the qualifications required for appointment is the Ph.D. degree (received after May 1, 2021 or expected by August 1, 2026). Candidates must demonstrate interest and potential excellence in undergraduate teaching. Successful teaching experience at the college level is desirable, as is the ability to teach from original objects and works of architecture. Oberlin College is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. The incumbent will bring understanding of or experience working with underrepresented and diverse academic populations. Oberlin is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the excellence and diversity of the academic community through their research, teaching, and service. 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 applicable law.

Compensation

Within the range established for this position, salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and includes an excellent benefits package, as well as a research fund to support the fellow's scholarship.

Special Instructions to Applicant

To apply, candidates should visit the online application site found at https://jobs.oberlin.edu. A complete application will be comprised of 1) a Cover Letter describing your teaching, scholarship, mentorship, and service, detailing any connections to supporting an inclusive learning environment; 2) a Curriculum Vitae; 3) an unofficial graduate transcript; 4) a statement (or statements) on your teaching philosophy and expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion; 5) Letters of Reference from three recommenders. All application materials must be submitted electronically through Oberlin College and Conservatory's online application process at: https://jobs.oberlin.edu. Review of applications will begin on November 3, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

Questions about the position can be addressed to: Matthew Rarey, Chair of Art History, at mrarey@oberlin.edu or 440-775-8129.