"The Edward Said Chair of American Studies (Fall 2026-27)"

The Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for American Studies and Research (CASAR) at the American University of Beirut invites applications for the 2026-27 Edward Said Chair of American Studies, to begin August 25, 2026.

CASAR is an interdisciplinary research, academic, and cultural center devoted to advancing rigorous study and informed understanding of the United States in the Middle East, with particular emphasis on research and teaching of American affairs, especially in the fields of American history, culture, and political institutions. The center currently offers undergraduate courses, fosters senior theses, sponsors speakers, produces cultural events, and hosts post-doctoral fellows, reading groups, and research from the AUB community at large. CASAR is funded by a generous endowment from the Alwaleed Foundation.

The Said Chair-holder must have a distinguished intellectual or cultural reputation in an area related to American Studies. While possibly affiliated with any department across the university, the chair-holder will be part of a community of scholars eager to engage American Studies from our university's unique position. Preferred qualifications include: a demonstrated engagement with scholarship or practice in American Studies, a distinguished intellectual output, and a demonstrated commitment to exploring the scholarly intersections of the United States and Middle East Studies. Outstanding candidates at the rank of full professor and advanced associate professor or the professional equivalent will be considered.

The teaching load is 1/1. The position entails a public presentation of the candidate's research, overall participation in the Center's intellectual life, and contribution to ongoing exploration of American Studies at AUB. It does not entail significant administrative work.

Interested applicants are invited to submit:
- Statement of intent
- CV
- Publication samples
- Contact details for three professional references.

Applications are accepted via Interfolio at the following link: https://apply.interfolio.com/177014

Review of applications will begin on December 15, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled.

AUB is an equal opportunity employer.