Assistant Professor of Africana Studies

Wellesley College · Wellesley College · $103,000 (stated in the posting)

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Please review the details for the position before applying. When applying, please confirm your legal name is entered exactly as it appears on your government-issued identification. Ensure that you have the required documents ready to upload in either PDF (.pdf) or Word document (.doc) format. On the second page, enter your education, starting with your highest degree. Please upload your Curriculum Vitae, Cover Letter, and any supplemental documents on the fourth page.

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Job Description Summary

Job Description

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 deeply 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, demonstrate a commitment to excellence in teaching, as well as a commitment to liberal arts education. 

The minimum salary for Assistant Professors is $103,000.00 annually. 

Basic Qualifications:

• 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

Additional Qualifications:

• 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.

How to Apply:

• Please submit applications via the Wellesley College online system at https://wd1.myworkdaysite.com/recruiting/wellesley/wellesley-faculty/job/Wellesley-College/Assistant-Professor-of-Africana-Studies_R0007793

• Applications should include 

  • A cover letter that addresses your teaching experience and research agenda (maximum 3 pages) 

  • A curriculum vitae

  • A brief description of three courses that you might offer in your first year (1-2 pages) 

  • Names and contact details of three referees who will be contacted for a letter

For full consideration, all materials must be submitted electronically by the application deadline 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.  

Company Description

Wellesley’s mission is to provide an excellent liberal arts education to women who will make a difference in the world. We advance our mission by working together as a community—faculty, students, staff, and alumnae. 

Embark on a fulfilling career journey at Wellesley College, where we prioritize your well-being.  For those roles that are half-time or greater, we offer a comprehensive array of benefits and resources designed to enhance both your work-life balance and long-term success. 

• Exceptional Benefits Package: Access a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision and pre-tax saving  benefits, life insurance, disability coverage (for full-time Faculty), and more to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones.

• Retirement Savings: Plan for the future with our retirement savings plan. Wellesley College contributes up to 10.5% towards your 403(b) plan for eligible employees.

• Work/Life and Wellness: Caregiving support through Wellthy, legal plan insurance, pet insurance discount and a variety of other resources including retirement planning, and access to cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

• Commuting and Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of free parking on our picturesque campus, easily accessible from major roadways. We are also accessible via the MBTA commuter rail. 

• Campus Privileges: Enjoy free use of our state-of-the-art athletic and fitness facilities with onsite fitness classes, Library resources, and seize opportunities to attend diverse campus events that contribute to a vibrant community. 

Apply today and take your first step toward a rewarding career with Wellesley College – where your unique strengths and success are celebrated as part of our shared commitment to inclusivity!

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EEO Statement

At Wellesley, we embrace and honor difference and diversity. We believe the best ideas—the best solutions—draw on a range of voices, perspectives, and experiences. As a college, and as a community, we are dedicated to assuring that all members of the Wellesley community have an equal opportunity to flourish. 

Wellesley College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals in hiring and advancement based on any legally protected status. Candidates who believe they can contribute to the College community are encouraged to apply.

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