Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in Professional/Technical Writing
Radford University in Radford, Virginia
Contact: Laura Vernon, Search Committee Chair, lvernon
The School of Writing, Language, and Literature at Radford University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of English, specializing in professional/technical writing (PTW) to begin in August 2025. We seek applicants with expertise in PTW technologies and digital writing (e.g., writing for social media platforms, writing for the web and mobile devices, document design technologies, usability/user experience, accessibility, artificial intelligence).
Preference will be given to applicants with a strong commitment to both undergraduate and graduate PTW education, a proven record of a student-focused teaching practice, and experience teaching PTW courses in person and online. The successful applicant will be expected to teach a mix of courses in the undergraduate professional writing concentration/minor and in the fully online graduate certificate in professional writing. The successful applicant can expect a 4/4 teaching load and teach courses in Professional Writing, Business Writing, Professional Writing Technologies, and Digital Writing. The successful applicant will also be expected to establish an independent program of research in the field; participate in department, college, and university governance and committee work; and advise undergraduate students.
We are especially interested in applicants who can help us place PTW students in internships and market and recruit students into our PTW undergraduate and graduate certificate programs and courses. We are also interested in applicants who value active and experiential learning and innovative teaching practices and who promote diversity and inclusion in their teaching, research, and service. We are committed to providing a supportive and collaborative environment for new faculty building a successful career.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in English, with a specialization in PTW and expertise in PTW technologies and digital writing; or a Ph.D. in Professional or Technical Writing, with a specialization in PTW technologies and digital writing. Degree must be in hand by the start of employment in August 2025.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with student-focused, innovative, active, and experiential learning.
- Experience teaching in-person and online PTW courses.
- Experience with student internships, program marketing, and student recruitment.
- A collegial attitude for department, college, and university service.
- A commitment to serving the needs of a diverse student population.
Application Link and Materials
Qualified applicants should apply at https://jobs.radford.edu/postings/15041 and include the following materials:
- A cover letter that addresses (a) teaching experience, teaching philosophy, and evidence of teaching excellence (e.g., student evaluations, teaching observations); (b) research interests, agenda, and accomplishments to date; and (c) diversity and inclusion practices.
- Curriculum vita.
- Names and contact information for three references. Letters of recommendation will be requested from candidates selected for interviews.
- Copies of transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable when applying. Official transcripts will be required later.
Timeline
Applications are due no later than December 15, 2024, 11:59 p.m., Eastern. Reviews will begin shortly thereafter. Zoom interviews will be in late January 2025. Campus interviews will be in late February 2025.
About Us
The School of Writing, Language, and Literature (SWLL) is housed within the College of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences (CHBS), which is the largest college at Radford University and home to liberal arts instruction on campus. CHBS and SWLL are housed in a 145,000-square-foot modern instructional and research facility. Centrally located on the main quad of the campus, it is one of the largest academic buildings at the university and houses an array of specialized teaching and research facilities.
Radford University is a comprehensive public university of more than 7,700 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs as well as for its sustainability initiatives. Radford University serves the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation through a wide range of academic, cultural, human service, and research programs. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment, and vibrant student life on a beautiful 211-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 76 bachelor’s degree programs in 47 disciplines and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 28 master’s programs in 23 disciplines and five doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 18 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master’s certificate. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Conference, Radford University competes in 16 men’s and women’s varsity athletics. With more than 200 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development, and community service. In addition to robust academic offerings and engaging student experiences on the main campus located in Radford, Virginia, Radford University also offers a clinical-based educational experience for more than 1,100 students living and learning in Roanoke, Virginia, as part of Radford University Carilion, a public-private partnership focused on the cutting-edge delivery of health sciences programming, outreach, and service. Please visit the Radford University website at https://www.radford.edu for more information.
The city of Radford, Virginia, is located in the heart of the New River Valley in southwest Virginia. The region is a haven for music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Just a short drive from Blacksburg and Roanoke, the region boasts a vibrant art scene and local food culture as well as many community-university partnership opportunities. Radford is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from both Charlottesville, Virginia, and Charlotte, North Carolina.
Radford University is committed to providing an environment that emphasizes the dignity and worth of every member of its community and is free from harassment and discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, against otherwise qualified persons with disabilities, or based on any other status protected by law. Per federal Title IX regulations, as well as other federal and state regulations, Radford University prohibits discrimination and harassment in its educational programs and activities, on the basis of sex or any other protected class, by individuals subject to its control or supervision.
Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application process should call (540) 831-5008 (voice) or (540) 831-5128 (TTY).
Laura Vernon, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Professional Writing
School of Writing, Language, and Literature
Radford University
PO Box 6935
Radford, VA 24142
lvernon
Hemphill Hall 4131