Assistant professor - studies

Company Description:

Founded in 1887, Clark was one of the first all-graduate institutions in the United States. Today the University is a highly-ranked, student-centered institution educating approximately 2,350 undergraduate and 1,150 graduate students to be imaginative and contributing citizens of the world and to advance the frontiers of knowledge and understanding through rigorous scholarship and creative effort. This commitment to scholarship and inquiry reflects the University's commitment to "challenge convention and change our world" and to address issues of critical importance to society. It is also reflected by Clark's many national and international distinctions, including innovation, community engagement and impact, as a top green campus, and for having a distinguished geography and international development program. Clark has also been included in the groundbreaking Colleges that Change Lives guide since it was first published in 1996.

Clark is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, a dynamic, diverse city "on the rise". The second largest city in New England, Worcester is home to 11 institutions of higher learning and is increasingly recognized for its growing healthcare and biotechnology communities, its thriving cultural scene, and as a vibrant food hub.

Job Description:

About the Department:

The Department of Language, Literature & Culture is a close-knit community dedicated to advancing both language proficiency and critical cultural literacy. Students explore literature, film, and media through interdisciplinary and global perspectives, preparing them for careers in education, government, nonprofits, and the arts. The department values research and teaching that connects language and culture across boundaries and that fosters collaboration among Clark's diverse academic programs.

Position Overview:

The Department of Language, Literature and Culture at Clark University invites applications for a one-year Visiting Assistant Professor in Japanese Language and Culture, beginning in August 2026. This position is partially funded by the Japan Foundation. The successful candidate will teach four courses per year: two in intermediate or advanced Japanese language and two on Japanese culture (taught in English).

Preferred Specializations:

We seek a scholar whose research and teaching focuses on Japanese cultural production and who brings a disciplinary background in comparative literature, cultural studies, environmental humanities, gender studies, linguistics, media studies (including digital media or digital humanities), religion, or related fields.

We especially welcome candidates whose work is collaborative and interdisciplinary. The successful candidate will have opportunities to engage with colleagues and students through centers, programs and Schools, such as Asian Studies, Center for Gender, Race, and Areas Studies (CGRAS), the Higgins School of Humanities, the Becker School of Design and Technology, and the School of Climate, Environment and Society, among others.

Requirements:

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant field required by the time of appointment.
• ABD candidates will receive full consideration, provided all degree requirements are completed by August 1, 2026.
• Demonstrated excellence or strong promise in teaching Japanese language and culture at the college level.
• Evidence of research in Japanese cultural studies within an interdisciplinary context.

Additional Information:

At Clark University we believe that diversity of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds leads to a more innovative and productive work environment. We welcome and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to join our team and contribute their unique ideas to help us achieve our goals.

Clark University offers a generous benefit package for full and, if applicable, part-time employees that include; paid time off, generous retirement plan, group health and dental insurance, life insurance, and tuition, along with use of many campus amenities. For a complete list of benefits for eligible employees visit here .

To review the Clark University Police Department Annual Security and Fire Safety Report visit here .

Application Instructions:

To be considered for this position, you must submit your credentials online. Create a Clark University Careers Account by clicking on the APPLY NOW button below. You will be able to upload the following documents, which are required for consideration:

Submit applications including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names of three academic references online through Clark University's Interview Exchange system by December 1, 2025. Finalists may be asked for additional materials. All required materials will be collected through the application portal.

Inquiries regarding the position should be directed to Professor Christina Gerhardt, Chair, LLC VAP Japanese Search Committee at [email protected] .

Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

See the FAQ for using our online system. Please contact us if you need assistance applying through this website.

Already have a Clark University Careers Account? Login to your account to add documents or update your account.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Salary will be commensurate with skills and experience.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

A successful background check is required upon acceptance.