Assistant/Associate Professor - English

Wayne State University • Detroit, MI

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Assistant/Associate Professor - English at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
The Department of English at Wayne State University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor specializing in rhetorics of and/or about Africa and the African diaspora beginning on August 18. 2026. We seek innovative researchers trained in the intersection of Black Studies and rhetoric, which may include, but is not limited to, African American rhetorics, global Black rhetorics, African rhetoric, and Black cultural rhetorics. Successful applicants will have a demonstrated track record of excellence in research and teaching and be prepared to develop courses that expand the Department’s curricula. An interest in community engagement is desirable but not required. Teaching will also include mentorship of MA and PhD students.
This position is one of several searches underway in connection with the Black Studies Faculty Enhancement Initiative sponsored by the Mellon Foundation and Wayne State University. Components of the program include structured mentoring, resources for the establishment of an independent research program, and the support of a community committed to higher education. The faculty member will be expected to contribute to the Detroit Center for Black Studies in their teaching, research, and service.

Requirements

• The candidate should have completed a PhD in Rhetoric and Writing Studies, English, or Black Studies by the time of appointment.
• CV
• Cover letter (please include description of research agenda)
• Writing sample (25 pages maximum)
• Contact information for three references
• Teaching portfolio (20 pages maximum that includes a statement of teaching philosophy, sample syllabi, and if available, student or faculty evaluations of teaching)

Nice To Haves

• An interest in community engagement is desirable but not required.

Responsibilities

• Develop courses that expand the Department’s curricula.
• Teaching will also include mentorship of MA and PhD students.
• Contribute to the Detroit Center for Black Studies in their teaching, research, and service.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees