Position Summary

Michigan State University actively promotes a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives, and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry. Michigan State University's Department of History seeks a historian with research expertise in African history. The period, region, and thematic areas are open. This is a 9-month tenure system position at the rank of Assistant Professor. The candidate must be able to teach classes on African history and world history. The successful candidate will enhance department and college research strengths in a variety of areas and is expected to promote collaborations with scholars in other units across the university. 

The teaching load is two courses per semester including undergraduate and graduate courses. Evidence of excellence in scholarship and a strong commitment to teaching is expected.  The successful candidate will be expected to pursue external funding in the form of grants and fellowships. Salary, benefits, and support for research are competitive.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate

Minimum Requirements

• A PhD in history at the time of employment is required. Full-time academic year appointment will begin on August 16, 2025

Desired Qualifications

• excellence in scholarly research and publication in the field of African history.
• research would enhance the department's ability to attract graduate applicants.
• experience seeking and securing external funding to support research in the field of African history.
• interdisciplinary scholarly interests connecting to work being done through MSU's African Studies Center and other centers on campus such as Matrix (MSU's center for digital research) or centers in MSU's International Studies and Programs.
• demonstrated excellence in teaching undergraduate courses on African history at various levels.
• demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in professional activities.

Required Application Materials

• a curriculum vitae
• cover letter addressing research and teaching
• a diversity and inclusion statement addressing how the candidate's contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion will advance MSU's commitment to inclusive excellence
• a writing sample (max 50 pages)
• the names and email addresses of three confidential references

Special Instructions

For full consideration, application materials must be submitted electronically via posting number 952233 on careers.msu.edu by October 1, 2024.  Inquiries about the position can be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Walter Hawthorne at walterh@msu.edu.

Reviews of applications will begin on October 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled.

Review of Applications Begins On

10/01/2024

Website

history.msu.edu

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.