Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis through May 2027. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.
The Department of English at the University of Memphis invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor in Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication. We seek an applicant with research interests and teaching experience in one or more of the following: digital rhetoric, collaborative writing, rhetorical theory, and/or technical communication to join our undergraduate (BA) and graduate (MA, PhD) degree programs in Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication (WRTC). Experience teaching online courses is preferred.
The position is non-renewable and contingent upon funding. It begins Fall 2026 and ends with the conclusion of the Spring 2027 semester.
The teaching load for this full-time position is 3/3. Salary is competitive and based on experience.
All applications will be managed through the University’s online application system, WorkForUM, available here. We urge all qualified applicants to apply for this position. Appointment will be based on qualifications as they relate to position.
Located in the heart of Memphis, home of the blues, the UofM provides an approach to the humanities rarely available elsewhere. In addition to its affordability, it has a large medical hub, including St. Jude’s Hospital, Le Bonheur Hospital, University of Tennessee’s medical programs, etc., providing ample opportunity for community and public-private partnerships.
ResponsibilitiesThe teaching load for this full-time position is 3/3. New faculty will be expected to maintain a productive research agenda and teach undergraduate and graduate courses.
QualificationsRequirements include a PhD in English, Communication, Rhetoric, Writing Studies, or related field. A PhD in hand is preferred, but advanced ABD candidates will be considered with proof of significant progress towards completion of the PhD. Additional qualifications include:
- Evidence of excellent teaching in rhetoric, writing, and/or technical communication
- A focused research agenda that includes publications or potential for publication in the field(s) of rhetoric, writing, and/or technical communication
- A commitment to serving the needs of a diverse student population
- A collegial attitude for department and university service
New faculty will be expected to maintain a productive research agenda and teach undergraduate and graduate courses.
To Apply, candidates should submit the following, initial materials:
- Cover Letter
- Current CV
- Reference List
Candidates will be asked for the following materials at a later round:
- Teaching Philosophy and Sample Teaching Materials
- Writing Sample (15-20 pages, dissertation chapters for ABD applicants)
- Transcripts
- Reference Letters
Deadline: Review of applications will begin on July 10, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis through May 2027. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.
Skills Required
- PhD in English, Communication, Rhetoric, Writing Studies, or related field (PhD in hand preferred; advanced ABD considered with proof of progress)
- Authorization to work in the United States full-time through May 2027 (employer cannot sponsor or take over sponsorship)
- Evidence of excellent teaching in rhetoric, writing, and/or technical communication
- A focused research agenda with publications or potential for publication in rhetoric, writing, and/or technical communication
- Commitment to serving the needs of a diverse student population
- Collegial attitude for department and university service
- Experience teaching online courses
What We Do
The University of Memphis is a public research university in Memphis, Tennessee, committed to academic excellence and community engagement. Driven by a philosophy of 'doing,' the institution leverages a diverse workforce of faculty and staff to foster a dynamic learning environment. The university provides a comprehensive range of educational opportunities and maintains a strong commitment to equal employment and institutional equity.
