Wellesley College’s Department of Africana Studies has announced a search for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor specializing in Comparative English Literature with a focus on African American Literature.
The successful candidate will join the department beginning in Fall 2027 and contribute to teaching, research, and academic leadership within the liberal arts institution.
The position is designed for scholars whose work engages African American literary traditions, Africana Studies, and comparative approaches to literature across the African diaspora.
What Areas of Expertise is Wellesley Seeking?
The department is seeking applicants with expertise in one or more areas related to African American literature and cultural studies, including:
- African American literary traditions
- Black Women Writers
- Harlem Renaissance
- Urban Realism
- Black Arts Movement
- Afro-Futurism
- Contemporary Fiction
- Memoir
- African American Gothic
Wellesley College also welcomes candidates who can teach courses incorporating literature and perspectives from the wider African diaspora, including African literature and Caribbean literature.
Role Responsibilities and Academic Expectations
The appointed faculty member will be expected to teach four courses annually while maintaining an active research programme leading toward a strong publication record.
The successful candidate will also be responsible for:
- Delivering high-quality undergraduate teaching.
- Conducting original and rigorous research.
- Advising students and supporting academic development.
- Contributing intellectual leadership to Africana Studies and Comparative Literature.
- Supporting the mission of a liberal arts education.
As an interdisciplinary department, Wellesley encourages applications from scholars using diverse disciplinary and methodological approaches relevant to Africana Studies and Comparative Literature.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Applicants must hold a doctorate at the time of application or by the start date of the appointment.
Candidates with advanced doctoral training in fields such as:
- Comparative Literature
- Africana Studies
- Related humanities disciplines
are encouraged to apply.
Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to research, publishing, teaching, mentoring, and contributing to the broader academic community.
Salary and Employment Benefits
The minimum salary for the Assistant Professor position is $103,000 annually.
As a full-time faculty role, the position includes access to Wellesley College’s comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Health, dental, and vision benefits.
- Life insurance and disability coverage.
- Retirement savings contributions through the college’s 403(b) plan.
- Work-life and wellness resources.
- Access to campus facilities, libraries, cultural events, and fitness resources.
- Transportation and commuting support.
Application Requirements and Deadline
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the Wellesley College online recruitment system.
Required application materials include:
- A cover letter outlining teaching experience and research agenda (maximum three pages).
- Curriculum vitae.
- A brief description of three courses the applicant could offer during the first year (one to two pages).
- Contact details for three referees who will provide recommendation letters.
For full consideration, all application materials must be submitted electronically by:
Application Deadline: September 1, 2026
Candidates selected for further consideration may be asked to provide additional materials, including writing samples, sample syllabi, and course evaluations.
Advancing Scholarship in Africana Studies
Wellesley College continues to strengthen its commitment to diversity, academic excellence, and inclusive scholarship. Through this faculty search, the institution seeks a scholar who can expand conversations around African American literature, global Black studies, and interdisciplinary humanities research.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape future generations of students while contributing to a vibrant scholarly community dedicated to understanding literature, history, culture, and social transformation.
