Teaching Assistant Professor in Japan Studies

The Department of World Languages and Cultures (WLC) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), invites applications for a non-tenure-track position at the rank of Teaching Assistant Professor in Japan Studies. This is a one-year appointment, renewable contingent upon performance and funding, to begin Fall 2026.

This innovative position combines academic instruction with scholarly expertise and research-based service. The selected candidate will:

• Teach two courses per semester in Japan Studies (flexible teaching modality for Fall 2026)
• Lead as Program Manager for the newly established UT Japan Center by working with the Center Directors to support strategic initiatives; coordinating conferences, workshops, and other events; managing student/faculty programs (internships, scholarships, faculty travel to Japan); and exploring grants/funding opportunities.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Japan Studies or related fields by time of appointment (candidates with Ph.D. will be appointed as Teaching Assistant Professor; those with Master's will be appointed as Lecturer)
• Demonstrated excellence in scholarly research
• Significant formal training and teaching experience
• Native or near-native proficiency in both Japanese and English
• Experience in Japanese-language teaching preferred
• Background in engagement with industry, government agencies, and/or public outreach preferred

Candidates should apply through Interfolio at https://apply.interfolio.com/173864. Please submit a curriculum vitae, a cover letter describing your interest in the position and research and teaching experience, evidence of past teaching ability/experience (such as syllabi or evaluations), and the names and email addresses of three references. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

All inquiries should be directed to Dr. Noriko Horiguchi, Search Committee Chair, Department of World Languages and Cultures, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 (njh@utk.edu).