Wellesley College - Assistant Professor of Africana Studies

Wellesley College – Assistant Professor of Africana Studies

The Department of Africana Studies at Wellesley College invites applications for a full‑time, tenure‑track Assistant Professorship in Comparative English Literature with a focus on African American Literature, to begin in Fall 2027. We seek applicants trained and qualified to teach in one or more of the following areas:
African American literary traditions, Black Women Writers, Harlem Renaissance, Urban Realism, Black Arts Movement, Afro‑Futurism, Contemporary Fiction, Memoir, or African American Gothic. We also value the ability to teach courses that include authors and works from the larger African diaspora such as African literature and Caribbean Literature. As a deeply interdisciplinary department, we welcome a variety of disciplinary and methodological engagements appropriate to Comparative Literature and Africana Studies broadly conceived.

The successful candidate will offer four courses per year, conduct rigorous research with a trajectory toward a strong publication record, and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in teaching, as well as a commitment to liberal arts education.

The minimum salary for Assistant Professors is $ annually.

• Candidates are required to have a doctorate at the time of application or by the time that the appointment begins.
• Candidates with advanced (doctoral) training in Comparative Literature, Africana Studies and/or a related discipline are encouraged to apply.

• Demonstrated strong commitment to publishing, teaching, advising, and rigorous research is expected. Candidates should also show intellectual leadership and impact on the field and potential for significant contributions to the department, college, and wider scholarly community.
• A cover letter addressing your teaching experience and research agenda (maximum 3 pages)
• A brief description of three courses you might offer in your first year (1–2 pages)
• Names and contact details of three referees who will be contacted for a letter

All materials must be submitted electronically by the Final date to receive applications on September 1, 2026. Applications received by the deadline will receive full consideration. As the search proceeds, applicants called for interviews may be asked to provide a writing sample, sample syllabi, and course evaluations.

• Health, dental, vision and pre‑tax saving benefits, life insurance, disability coverage (for full‑time faculty)
• Retirement savings:
  Wellesley College contributes up to 10.5% toward your 403(b) plan for eligible employees.
• Work/life and wellness resources: caregiving support through Wellthy, legal plan insurance, pet insurance discount and other resources.
• Commuting and transportation: free parking on campus and access to MBTA commuter rail.
• Campus privileges: free use of athletic and fitness facilities, library resources, and opportunities to attend diverse campus events.

Wellesley College is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.