The Department of African American and African Studies (AAAS) at The Ohio State University invites applications for a position in Media Studies. We are looking for a scholar at the rank of assistant professor, whose main research focuses on the environments of expressive Black Media. The focus genre, mode, and location of research should be derived from, and/or addressed to, the experiences and practices (historical and/or contemporary) that are identifiable with Black societies in their complex relations with others. An ability to integrate community work with Black communities in central Ohio in teaching and research practices is desirable.

This position is one of a cluster of three Race, Arts, and Creative Expressions tenure track hires in The Ohio State University’s Race, Inclusion and Social Equity (RAISE) initiative. The two other positions are in the departments of Dance and History of Art. The successful candidate will be expected to engage with other faculty in the Global Black Arts cluster.

Through the Race, Inclusion and Social Equity (RAISE) initiative, Ohio State is enhancing our world-class research program on race, inclusion, and social equity. Over the next decade, the university will add at least 50 tenure-track faculty members to existing scholars whose research can help to narrow social disparities in educational attainment, health outcomes, rates of incarceration, political representation, environmental impacts, and economic well-being. Adding scholars in focused areas will enhance the University’s outstanding faculty and inform solutions to intractable issues. RAISE is part of Ohio State’s larger initiative to expand the size and impact of Ohio State’s faculty over the coming decade, while also enhancing academic and personal resources to support Ohio State scholars, educators, and practitioners through all phases of their careers.

Qualifications: Candidates are expected to hold a PhD in Africana/Black Studies or Media studies or a related field by August 15, 2023. ABDs welcome to apply. Applicants should have experience or interest in teaching courses in the department’s graduate and undergraduate Africana curriculum and, if appropriate design new courses. Appointment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to a criminal background check.

About the Department of African American and African Studies: Our comprehensive multidisciplinary curriculum includes courses in literature, music, history, psychology, sociology, political science, and community development. AAAS has a Community Extension Center, which serves as an outreach arm into the local Black community in the city of Columbus and as a significant resource for faculty and student research and community engagement. The department is home to the journals Research in African Literatures and Spectrum: A Journal on Black Men. About Columbus: The Ohio State University campus is located in Columbus, the capital city of Ohio. Columbus is the Midwest’s fastest-growing city and the nation’s 14th largest city. Columbus offers a diverse array of welcoming neighborhoods and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Additional information about all that the Columbus area has to offer is available at https://visit.osu.edu/experience.

Application Instructions: Apply to Academic Jobs Online at: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/22679. A complete application consists of a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research, teaching, and diversity statements, and three letters of reference. The diversity statement should articulate your demonstrated commitments and capacities to contribute to diversity, equity, and inclusion through research, teaching, mentoring, and/or outreach and engagement. Review of applications will begin on November 15, 2022 and will continue until the position is filled. Inquiries may be directed to Professor Adélékè Adéẹ̀kọ́ at adeeko.1@osu.edu.

The Ohio State University is committed to enhancing academic excellence. Recruiting, supporting, and retaining faculty of the highest caliber is a core component of this commitment. In support of this, The Office of Academic Affairs (OAA) has created the Office of Dual Careers and Faculty Relocation (DCFR) to focus on supporting new and prospective faculty. This support includes dual careers services, consultation and resources related to relocation, as well as identifying opportunities to engage on campus and the surrounding community. While employment opportunities are not guaranteed, resources and consultation are available to support the partners of new and prospective faculty as they are considering The Ohio State University and throughout their transition.

The Ohio State University is committed to establishing a culturally and intellectually diverse environment, encouraging all members of our learning community to reach their full potential. Over the next few years, The Ohio State University is committed to welcoming 350 new faculty hires, many of which will contribute to growing our role as a premier research university equipped to answer and interrogate the critical domestic and global societal challenges that deter equality and inclusion. We are responsive to dual-career families and strongly promote work-life balance to support our community members through a suite of institutionalized policies. The Ohio State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status.