Vanderbilt University - Mellon Assistant Professor of Culture, Advocacy, and Leadership

Vanderbilt University - Mellon Assistant Professor of Culture, Advocacy, and Leadership

This is a non-tenure-track position with a 3-year appointment effective Fall 2026. We seek a scholar, teacher, and practitioner to join Vanderbilt University’s Program in Culture, Advocacy, and Leadership (CAL), a fast-growing, interdisciplinary major dedicated to civic engagement. The ideal candidate will work in the applied, public humanities and conduct research in such areas as community engagement, public advocacy, character and leadership, American culture, the intersection of global and local affairs, or similar fields.

Additionally, the candidate will be able to teach introductory courses (especially CAL 1002:
Fundamentals of Culture, Advocacy, and Leadership and CAL 2800: Global Perspectives on American Cultures) while helping students undertake successful internships and practicum projects that culminate in public-facing scholarship.

A PhD in Public Humanities, American Studies, English, History, Communication Studies, Museum Studies, other Area Studies, or a related field required no later than August 15, 2026. In accordance with Mellon Foundation guidelines, applicants must have received the Ph.D. no more than four years from the start of the position, i.e. between August 16, 2022, through August 15, 2026. Teaching experience is preferred, especially in classes that involve public-facing experiences and projects.

Teaching load 2/2.

Applications, including cover letter stating research interests and teaching philosophy, CV, and list of three references should be submitted. Candidates who advance in the process will also be asked to submit a writing sample, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and three letters of recommendation. For full consideration, submit materials by March 15, 2026 to Interfolio via this link:  . Vanderbilt is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.

Questions about the position should be directed to Paul Stob , Director of the Program in Culture, Advocacy, and Leadership.

Vanderbilt University shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.

Paul Stob, Director of Culture, Advocacy, and Leadership