Apply for the Visiting Assistant Professor of Africana Studies Position at Brown University (2026–2027) @Brown University (2026–2027)

Scholars specializing in Africana Studies or related fields have an exciting academic opportunity to join one of the world’s leading research institutions. The Department of Africana Studies at Brown University is currently inviting applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor of Africana Studies for the 2026–2027 academic year. This full-time academic position offers the opportunity to contribute to a vibrant intellectual community while teaching and conducting interdisciplinary research.

Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown University is one of the United States’ prestigious Ivy League institutions, known for its commitment to innovative teaching, interdisciplinary scholarship, and inclusive academic environments. Founded in 1764, the university hosts a diverse community of scholars working across a wide range of disciplines.

The Visiting Assistant Professor will join Brown’s highly respected Africana Studies department, which is recognized for its strengths in areas such as history, gender and sexuality studies, political theory, public policy, and interdisciplinary Black studies.

What the Position Offers

This visiting faculty role provides scholars the opportunity to teach, conduct research, and contribute to the intellectual life of the department during a one-year academic appointment.

The selected candidate will teach four courses during the academic year, typically two courses per semester. These courses will primarily serve undergraduate students, although there may be an opportunity to teach a graduate seminar depending on departmental needs and the candidate’s expertise.

Beyond teaching, the visiting assistant professor will also:

• Maintain an active research or creative scholarship agenda
• Participate in departmental events, workshops, and academic discussions
• Contribute to the broader intellectual community within Africana Studies
• Engage with students through mentoring and academic guidance

The department values faculty members who bring intellectual curiosity, innovative teaching methods, and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of Africa and the African diaspora.

Areas of Scholarly Interest

While the area of specialization for this role is open, the department is particularly interested in candidates whose work aligns with emerging and interdisciplinary approaches within Africana Studies.

Examples of areas of interest include:

Arts, Culture, and Aesthetics

• Visual art and curatorial practices
• Film, media studies, and literature
• Fashion, material culture, music, and sound studies

Technology, Science, and the Environment

• Environmental justice and climate change
• Black technocultures and extractive industries
• Science and technology studies related to African communities

Political Economy and Public Life

• Public policy and governance
• Urban studies and social welfare
• Health equity and political economy

Scholars whose research and teaching extend beyond traditional historical approaches and embrace interdisciplinary perspectives are especially encouraged to apply.

Salary and Benefits

The Visiting Assistant Professor role offers an annual salary of $70,000 for the academic year.

For international scholars requiring immigration sponsorship, Brown University provides J-1 visa sponsorship for this position, allowing qualified candidates from around the world to participate in the appointment.

Working at Brown also provides access to extensive academic resources including research libraries, interdisciplinary institutes, and collaborative research centers that support faculty scholarship and teaching.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following core requirements:

• A Ph.D. in Africana Studies, African Studies, or a related field completed or expected by the start of the appointment
• Demonstrated solo teaching experience at the college or university level beyond teaching assistant roles
• Evidence of interdisciplinary scholarship or creative engagement

Preferred candidates may also have experience in innovative course design or mentoring diverse student populations.

Application Materials

Applicants must submit the following documents through the Interfolio application system:

1. Cover letter describing qualifications, teaching philosophy, and research focus
2. Current curriculum vitae (CV)
3. Teaching statement including course descriptions and two sample syllabi
4. Writing sample or creative portfolio (maximum 25 pages)
5. Contact information for three references

These materials allow the search committee to evaluate each candidate’s teaching experience, research trajectory, and potential contribution to the department.

Application Deadline

Application Deadline: April 5, 2026

Review of applications will begin on March 4, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply early to receive full consideration.

To read the full job description and apply, visit the Interfolio platform.

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