The School of Arts & Sciences at the University of Richmond (UR) invites applicants for a full time open rank position in the newly inaugurated Africana Studies program and the History department. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. by the time of appointment. In the School, tenure is a departmental status, and therefore faculty will be appointed in the History Department. The joint appointment position will begin in the fall of 2022. Candidates should have research and teaching expertise in African American and Black Diasporic History. We are particularly interested in scholars of the United States, but we also welcome applications from specialists on transnational Black experiences from all corners of the globe. Scholars working on a broad-range of geographic, thematic, and topical areas are encouraged to apply.

Established in 2021 and part of the part of the University’s emphasis on Inclusive Excellence, the Africana Studies academic program of study is one of several actions the school is taking to foster inclusivity and broaden the range of epistemologies, methodologies, and perspectives from which students learn. Africana Studies is an interdisciplinary program that critically and systematically examines the cultures, histories, and experiences of people of African descent globally. Utilizing innovative avenues of theoretical and empirical investigation, students explore questions and issues that shape the historical, social, political and cultural constructions and transformations of the African diaspora.

Candidates will be expected to teach interdisciplinary core courses in the Africana Studies program and courses that contribute to the History department’s offerings. This position is part of a cluster hire, and the successful candidate will be among the founding members of the newly formed interdisciplinary Africana Studies program. The candidate should anticipate playing an active role in the program.

The University of Richmond is a private university located just a short drive from downtown Richmond, Virginia. Through its five schools and wide array of campus programming, the University combines the best qualities of a small liberal arts college and a large university. With nearly 4,000 students, an 8:1 student-faculty ratio, and more than 90% of traditional undergraduate students living on campus, the University is remarkably student-centered, focused on preparing students “to live lives of purpose, thoughtful inquiry, and responsible leadership in a global and pluralistic society.”

The University of Richmond is committed to developing a diverse workforce and student body, and to modeling an inclusive campus community which values the expression of difference in ways that promote excellence in teaching, learning, personal development, and institutional success. Our academic community strongly encourages applications that are in keeping with this commitment.

Applicants should click "Apply Now" at the top of the page and should submit a curriculum vitae, cover letter, transcripts, and statements on research and teaching. The teaching statement should articulate the candidate’s philosophy, interest and future development goals as well as involvement in and commitment to inclusive pedagogy. Candidates for this position might be asked, at a later date, to provide the names and contact information for three references who will be asked to submit letters of recommendation. Questions about the application or materials may be directed to Professor Pippa Holloway at phollowa@richmond.edu in the History Department or Ernest McGowen (emcgowen@richmond.edu) in the Africana Studies Program. Review of applications will commence October 15 and continue until the position is filled.