Italian 2015-2016

Page for Italian Jobs that begin in 2016.

Last year's page: Italian 2014-2015

Your Status
PhD in hand, currently in TT job: 4

PhD in hand, currently in non-TT job (lecturer, etc.): 7

PhD in hand VAP:

PhD in hand adjunct: 1

PhD in hand postdoc fellowship:

PhD in hand, unemployed: 1

PhD in hand, non-academic job:

ABD, looking to defend this year: 7

ABD in non-TT job:

Your Field
Italian literature:

Italian language: 2

SLA/Pedagogy (language and culture): 2

Linguistics and sociolinguistics: 2

Translation: 1

19th-20th-21st century: 4

Medieval: 5

Early Modern: 4

Ecocriticism: 1

RECENT ACTIVITY (RSS Feed)

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Brigham Young University (UT) - TT Asst. Professor (Italian Studies)
The Department of French & Italian at Brigham Young University seeks an Assistant Professor of Italian beginning fall semester 2016. PhD in hand by time of appointment in Italian studies or a related field. This position is a full-time appointment with renewal contingent upon a successful review. Native or near-native proficiency in Italian and English is expected. The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching second- and third-year Italian grammar courses, third-year Italian composition, Italian phonetics, undergraduate courses in Italian literature and culture, supervision of Italian student instructors, and Italian club supervision. He/she is also expected to remain active in the scholarly community, advise students, and provide service to the department, college, and university.

BYU, and equal opportunity employer, requires all faculty to observe the university's honor code and dress and grooming standards. For the continuing status track, preference is given to qualified candidates who are members in good standing of the affiliated church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Candidates should submit a letter of application, a current curriculum vitae, a writing sample, official transcripts, and arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent directly. Apply to Dr. Corry Cropper, Chair, Department of French & Italian, 3134 JFSB Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84602. Email: [mailto:cropper@byu.edu cropper@byu.edu]

All applications must be received by November 30, 2015.

UPDATES:
 * They must be kidding about the membership with the Church of JC of Latter-day Saints?
 * No, I don't think so? That's the school's religious affiliation and it's a private school.
 * They aren't, but we should. Boycott this job!!
 * We should be kidding? Apply for this job!!!
 * I work at a religious university and am not required to be in any "standing" with the church. Are we really that desparate for a job that we're willing to join a cult just to get promoted? Com'on people, you have to draw the line somewhere.
 * Religious educational instutions enjoy a fairly broad exemption from the discrimination on the grounds of religious belief portion of the Equal Opportunities Act. This article from Catholic University's website explains the details http://counsel.cua.edu/Religion/publications/legal-issues.cfm. Long story short, the ad means what it says: if you're not a practicing Mormon you may get hired in the short term but you shouldn't expect to get tenure.

CUNY Bronx Community College (NY) - TT Asst. Professor - Modern Languages (Italian)
Job Title: Assistant Professor - Modern Languages (Tenure Track)

Job ID: 13469

Location: Bronx Community College

Full/Part Time: Full-Time

Regular/Temporary: Regular

This is a full time tenure track position in the Department of Modern Languages. Performs teaching, research and guidance duties in area(s) of expertise. Shares responsibility for committee and department assignments including administrative, supervisory, and other functions.

QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. degree in area(s) of experience or equivalent. Also required are the ability to teach successfully, demonstrated scholarship or achievement, and ability to cooperate with others for the good of the institution. Knowledge of instructional technology is required. Minimum of 3 years college teaching experience.

Preferred Qualifications: Earned Ph.D. degree in Italian, Applied Linguistics, Bilingual Education, Second Language Acquisition, Foreign Language Teaching or a related field. Native or near-native fluency in Italian and English to teach language courses. Scholarly record and research agenda, ability to teach a variety of courses in Italian, from beginning to advanced, and knowledge of new developments and technologies used in higher education.

Interest in collaborative research, working in a multidisciplinary and community environment, and teaching experience in a diverse urban college environment is strongly preferred. Expertise in translation and/or interpretation is preferred.

Applicants must apply online by accessing the CUNY website at http://WWW.cuny.edu and navigating to the following links: "Employment", "Search for job listings", Job # 13469. Please attach resume, cover letter and the names, addresses and telephone numbers of three professional references. Please do not include any other documentation. Please note: If you have applied to JVN # 12880, All existing applicants must reapply for the position(S) listed above. Candidates should provide a CV/resume and statement of scholarly interests.

CLOSING DATE: September 18, 2015

Chronicle

UPDATES:
 * Update: Sbaglio o lo stesso lavoro nella stessa università era già stato pubblicizzato nello scorso A/A? Che succede? È un nuovo posto o il precedente candidato ha rinunciato?
 * Non sbagli. il bando di questo lavoro era gia` uscito anche nel 2012 o 2013 (se non sbaglio)...ma ogni anno esce sempre una posizione TT a CUNY, non si capisce bene perche`...forse per mancanza di fondi la posizione dell' anno scorso viene chiusa o forse per altre ragioni oscure...good luck to all.
 * Received an awknowledgement email (9/23)

Fashion Institute of Technology, SUNY (NY) - TT Full-Time Faculty Position in Italian
The Department of Modern Languages and Cultures seeks to fill a full-time position in Italian. The successful candidate specializes in pedagogy related to foreign language acquisition and must possess the skills to develop initiatives for program growth, contribute to a coherently articulated program of instruction in Italian across levels of competency, design, prepare, implement, and evaluate syllabi, assist with the development and administration of assessment instruments, participate in professional development program and mentor students. The candidate should demonstrate a concrete record of research and publication, excellence in teaching and collegiality, and will also be expected to perform departmental and college service. Also desirable is a willingness to organize cultural activities for students both in and outside of the classroom.

For more details and to apply, please visit http://fitnyc.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=64313

MLA JIL 10/16/15

UPDATES:


 * Is this position really a tenure-track?  It does not specify anywhere, but only "full-time".
 * I found this statement at the end of the job description through the link above: "This is a full-time, tenure-track position beginning in Fall 2016."


 * Contacted for a phone interview (11/9)

Florida State University (FL) - TT Assistant Professor in Italian Studies (Medieval / Dante Studies)
FSU invites applications for an Assistant Professorship (tenure track) in Italian Studies, to begin August 2016. The successful candidate will be a specialist in Medieval literature and culture, particularly Dante Studies.

Active research interest in Mediterranean Studies and/or material culture, folklore, history of science, translation studies and digital humanities would be regarded as special assets.

We are a thriving undergraduate and M.A. program in Italian Studies. We are seeking an innovative, dynamic and productive scholar with interdisciplinary and cross-cultural focus able to complement our existing strengths and connect with other Programs and the broader university community.

Excellence in teaching and commitment to the growth of the Program are essential. Typical teaching load is 2/2. The candidate will primarily teach upper-level language, literature and culture courses in Italian and English, at the undergraduate and graduate level, as well as Liberal Studies courses.

Ph.D. required at time of employment. Native or near native fluency in Italian required. Salary is competitive.

Applicants should submit a cover letter, C.V., research statement, writing sample, teaching statement, two syllabi, and three letters of recommendation through Interfolio: http://apply.interfolio.com/32108. One syllabus should detail an undergraduate course on Dante in English.

Priority will be given to completed applications received by November 23. Preliminary interviews will be conducted at the MLA in Austin.

UPDATES:

Hebrew University of Jerusalem (ISR) - TT Assistant/Associate Professor - 16th-21st C. Italian Literature
Open call for candidates for an open rank (tenure-track or tenured) position in Modern and Contemporary Italian Literature at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

Job requirements: Comprehensive knowledge of Italian prose and poetry from the 16th to the 21st centuries; knowledge of prose and poetry writing relating to Italy and to its ties with neighbouring cultures, in particular the Romance-languages-speaking world, in different periods; knowledge of past and present Mediterranean cultural intersections and perspectives in which Italy is located.

Candidates must be fluent in the Italian language, both speaking and writing, at mother tongue level. Candidates should be in possession of a doctoral degree in Italian Studies, Comparative Literature, Romance Studies, or any other appropriate field.

The primary language of instruction at the Hebrew University is Hebrew, but candidates not familiar with Hebrew will be given time to reach proficiency in Hebrew during the initial years of their appointment.

Qualified candidates will be invited for an interview.

Application found at https://ttp.ekmd.huji.ac.il

Complete applications must be submitted by 15 October 2015.

H-NET

UPDATES:

New York University (NY) - Open Rank TT Faculty Position in Medieval Italian Studies
FACULTY POSITION Department of Italian Studies

ARTS AND SCIENCE New York University

The Department of Italian Studies of New York University invites applications for an open-rank tenured/tenure-track position in medieval Italian studies, to begin September 1, 2016, pending administrative and budgetary approval. The successful candidate will demonstrate scholarly excellence and a commitment to both graduate and undergraduate teaching.

Applications are welcomed from candidates in all fields and disciplines. Candidates should submit a letter of application, a curriculum vitae and three references, via the “Employment” link on the NYU Department of Italian Studies web site: http://italian.as.nyu.edu. The deadline for applications is November 30, 2015.

MLA JIL 10/2/15 - see also: https://apply.interfolio.com/32204

UPDATES:


 * Is this a real thing?
 * I've heard from several people that it certainly is. But it sounds like they don't know yet whether they'll have the funding to make a senior hire or a junior one.
 * This is like a dream job.
 * Any news about the assistant/associate issue?

Saint Lawrence University (NY) - TT Assistant Professor (Francophone Studies & Italian)
The Department of Modern Languages at St. Lawrence University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the assistant professor level in Francophone Studies and Italian. This position will involve teaching six courses per year. The successful candidate will teach Italian language classes; all levels of French language, culture, and literature; as well as literature and culture courses in English. It also involves service as director of the St. Lawrence University Program Abroad in France once prior to tenure and periodically thereafter. Ph.D. in hand; native or near native fluency in French, Italian and English required.

Preference will be given to candidates who have teaching expertise in language courses in Italian and French at all levels, as well as a research record on the literature and culture of Mediterranean countries. College teaching experience is preferred.

The candidate must possess a commitment to undergraduate education and readiness to demonstrate leadership in sustaining our programs abroad.

We welcome applications from candidates who bring diverse cultural and critical perspectives to their research and teaching.

Interested applicants must apply online at http://employment.stlawu.edu, please give close consideration to the "special instructions to applicant" section. Review of applications will begin December 1, 2015. Applications received after this date will be reviewed as needed

See also: https://apply.interfolio.com/32753

UPDATES:
 * Also posted at French and Francophone Studies 2015-2016

San Francisco State University (CSUSF - CA) - TT Asst. Professor of Italian and German Studies
San Francisco State University, Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures invites applicants for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Italian/German Studies beginning August 2016. The department seeks a specialist in Italian and German Literatures. Training in subfields that include Critical Theory, Film Studies, Gender Studies, and/or (Post)-Colonial Studies will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in Italian / German Studies.

Candidates should have a strong background in Italian & German Literature, with training in a subfield such as Critical Theory, Film Studies, Gender Studies, and/or (Post)-Colonial Studies. Candidates must have strong oral and written communication skills in German, Italian and English at a level that comprehends and conveys information to and from students, colleagues, and others in an effective manner. Candidates must have an active record of scholarship related to their specialty area. Excellence in teaching and scholarship must be demonstrated. Preference will be given to Candidates with demonstrable abilities to teaching a large and diverse student body.

Submit a cover letter including description of research interests, a current CV, academic transcripts (M.A. and Ph.D.), one sample of a scholarly paper (15-?20 pages), teaching philosophy, evidence of excellence in teaching (student evaluations, etc.), three letters of reference. Submit all materials online to: [mailto:ItGrTT16@sfsu.edu ItGrTT16@sfsu.edu]; Italian/German Hiring Committee Chair, or by regular mail to: Italian/German Hiring Committee Chair, San Francisco State University, Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, 1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132, by December 4, 2015. Review of applications begins December 5, 2015 and will continue until the position is filled.

Higheredjobs.com - 10/20/2015. See also: http://csucareers.calstate.edu/Detail.aspx?pid=49352

UPDATES:
 * Also posted at German Studies 2015-2016
 * Is this search for real? How many people are there who are qualified to teach both Italian and German culture at the college level?
 * Molti!


 * Hahahaha, also posted in Critical Theory, Film Studies, Gender Studies, (Post)-Colonial studies, Enology, Family and Consumer Science, and Physical Education.

Scripps College (CA) - TT Asst. Professor of Italian/Italian Studies
Scripps College, a women’s liberal arts college with a strong interdisciplinary tradition, invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professorship in Italian/Italian Studies. Native or near-native command of Italian and English, a strong teaching record, and Ph.D. completed by August 2016 are required. The successful candidate will teach all levels of Italian language and upper division courses in their field of Italian literature and Italian studies (in Italian and in English). Specialization is open. Participation in the Core Curriculum in Interdisciplinary Humanities program is expected. Preference will be given to applicants with a commitment to the College’s goal of improving higher education for underrepresented students.

Please submit letter of application, CV, three letters of reference, and a writing sample of no more than 20 pages to Professor Sabrina Ovan, Search Chair, at interfolio.com. Queries should be sent to sovan@scrippscollege.edu. Review of applications will begin November 9, 2015. Scripps College is one of seven members of The Claremont Colleges Consortium located 35 miles east of Los Angeles. In a continuing effort to build a diverse academic community and to provide equal educational and employment opportunities, Scripps College actively encourages applications from women and members of historically under-represented groups.

https://apply.interfolio.com/29661

UPDATES:


 * News?
 * I was told they will send out decisions during the first week of December (11/24)

University of Alabama (AL) - TT Asst. Professor in Italian (TWO Positions)
The Department of Modern Languages and Classics and the Program in Italian at The University of Alabama seek applicants for two tenure-track (9-month) Assistant Professor positions in Italian:

1) Assistant Professor in Italian — Open area of specialization

The Department of Modern Languages and Classics and the Program in Italian at The University of Alabama invite applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Italian, beginning August 2016. Minimum requirements include Ph.D. or equivalent in-hand in Italian, Romance Languages, or Comparative Literature with specialization in Italian, native or near-native fluency in Italian, and an excellent functional command of English. Area of expertise is open.

In addition to teaching all levels of undergraduate language courses and participating in the activities of the Program in Italian, the position also seeks candidates with the interest and/or experience to direct the “UA-in-Italy Language and Culture” summer program in Florence, Italy.

Candidates for this position must visit the University of Alabama website at https://facultyjobs.ua.edu/postings/37632 to initiate an application and upload materials. The online application will include the following documents: a letter of application that includes descriptions of relevant teaching experience, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and a description of research interests/publications and a resume/curriculum vitae. Three letters of recommendation should be sent directly to the chair of the search committee, Dr. Maurizio Godorecci (mgodorec@ua.edu), Search Committee Chair, Dept. of Modern Languages and Classics, Box 870246, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487. Applications should be received by November 15, 2015. We expect to conduct preliminary conversations with select applicants via telephone or videoconference and final interviews on campus.

2) Assistant Professor in Italian — Medieval/Renaissance

The Department of Modern Languages and Classics and the Program in Italian at The University of Alabama invite applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Italian, beginning August 2016. Minimum requirements include Ph.D. or equivalent in-hand in Italian, Romance Languages, or Comparative Literature with specialization in Italian, native or near-native fluency in Italian, and an excellent functional command of English. Area of expertise in Medieval and Renaissance literature.

In addition to teaching all levels of undergraduate language courses and participating in the activities of the Program in Italian, the position also seeks candidates with the interest and/or experience to direct the “UA-in-Italy Language and Culture” summer program in Florence, Italy.

Candidates for this position must visit the University of Alabama website at https://facultyjobs.ua.edu/postings/37634 to initiate an application and upload materials. The online application will include the following documents: a letter of application that includes descriptions of relevant teaching experience, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and a description of research interests/publications and a resume/curriculum vitae. Three letters of recommendation should be sent directly to the chair of the search committee, Dr. Barbara Godorecci (barbara.godorecci@ua.edu), Search Committee Chair, Dept. of Modern Languages and Classics, Box 870246, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487. Applications should be received by November 15, 2015. We expect to conduct preliminary conversations with select applicants via telephone or videoconference and final interviews on campus.

MLA JIL 10/2/15 - see also: https://apply.interfolio.com/32173

UPDATES:


 * Does anyone know what "TT (9-months)" means? Is it a ranked appointment but they only pay you a nine month salary? I've worked in non-ranked 9-month positions, but it's the first time I see that wording in a TT listing. Thanks!
 * It generally means only that your salary will be spread out over a 9-month period, as opposed to throughout the year. The number of times one is paid varies from institution to institution. I know that at my current university, even though I am paid 9 months/year, there exists the option to have one's salary spread out over all 12 months. But a 9-month pay period is not unusual, even for a TT-position.


 * That there are TWO positions sounds promising. Anyone have info on environment/community? Have not heard great things about living in the city or the state.
 * Great football team. ROLL TIDE!


 * Let's just say this: there are currently 2 Italian professors there, and now there are 2 new openings, but. I don't think that they are doubling their faculty members in the Italian dept. so those two might be leaving. I wonder why.
 * alabama e un posto terribile! Non si puo sperare di crescere un famiglia, e se si sono sposati, buona fortuna a tua moglie trovare un lavoro!
 * o a tuo marito, no? < THIS x 100!


 * Agree with the above.  It's a fine school But 'Bama was the first state to refuse Syrian refugees and to ban the burqa.  Think that tells you all you need to know about this backwoods place. You have to be really desperate. Better off inadmin somewhere else.
 * I grew up in neighboring Georgia and taught for a time in Georgia Tech. Little sensitive to everyone picking on the south but....have to admit that even for me, living in western Alabama would be a stretch. It's a very nice school though.
 * To the original poster: i'd say it depends on where you are in life. If you are young and single then go for it. But if are older or have a family, then relocating to Alabama could be very, VERY difficult. THere are very few jobs and no opportunities other than the university itself. It would be a major adjustment that you might find very difficult.
 * Let me translate that for you: STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM THIS TOWN! You CAN'T ever hope to settle down and live your life in Alabama unless you're FROM Alabama!
 * Sono d'accordo. E 'impossibilie vivere qui. E per questo che due professori stanno lasciando!
 * Don't fall for this place! They go after young, desperate scholars who are too desperate or too naive or just plain stupid! Honestly, that's why NO ONE STAYS HERE. And that's if you're AMERICAN. if you are italian they will really prey on you because they know you don't know better and that you are desperate. NO ONE IS THIS DESPERATE. STAY FAR FAR AWAY!
 * Si e vero! Nessuno vivrebbe qui!
 * Ma se la smettessimo? (anche perché gli ultimi due commenti sono stati scritti dalla stessa persona che si dà ragione da solo). Per favore, evitiamo il ridicolo < THIS x 1000! (also, whoever is the person who wrote all the negative comments, is a very sad one(
 * Shame on the University of Alabama for wanting to hire two Italianists!


 * I will own up and acknolwedge that yes, i posted twice this morning. once in engilsh and once in italian because i really do want to spare people.  and yes, i have, let us say, 'second hand' knowledge of what i am talking about. i will repeat what somene said above because i agree: if 22 and young and just starting career then maybe go for it. but if you have a family or even want a fmaily and you come from somewhere else, its very hard. i apologize to anyone i may have offended, or if i just looked like a troll. i truly do.
 * It is true that there are a husband and wife team here, but they built the entire program. With three faculty members, it is a good chance that they could start a major. And if this is the case, then there would be many worse places to be.
 * Other than that guy yesterday (who if you ask me sounded like a disgruntled former employee) I really don't think anyone is questioning the school, it's Alabama itself people seem to be warning against. I a from Chicago originally and tried the Deep South thing for a while, I lasted one year before I had to get out of there.

University of British Columbia (CAN - Vancouver) - TT Assistant Professor of Modern Italian Literature and Culture
The Department of French, Hispanic and Italian Studies in the Faculty of Arts at the University of British Columbia (Vancouver) invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor to commence July 1, 2016. Candidates should have a specialization in the Literature and Culture of Italy from the 18th to the 21st Centuries. An interest in other Romance literatures and cultures and/or Transcultural Studies would be an asset. The successful candidate will be required to teach undergraduate and/or graduate literature and culture courses, in Italian and English, as well as language courses at the undergraduate level. S/he should demonstrate intellectual breadth and flexibility as the Department increasingly moves in new directions. We seek outstanding candidates with bridging interests who will complement existing strengths within the Department and in other units and specializations such as Nineteenth-century studies, Women’s and Gender Studies, Art History, Visual Art and Theory, Theatre and Film. A completed PhD in Italian Literature or a relevant field is required. Candidates must have native or near-native fluency in Italian, as well as an excellent command of English to teach Italian Studies and Romance Studies courses. Candidates should have excellent teaching skills and a promising record of excellence in research and publications. The successful candidate will be expected to maintain an active program of research, teaching, graduate supervision, and service.

Applicants should send a letter of application, a current curriculum vitae, a description of current and future research and teaching interests, and evidence of teaching effectiveness. Applications should be sent (in Word or .pdf format) via email to: [mailto:emanuela.guerra@ubc.ca emanuela.guerra@ubc.ca], or alternatively, in hardcopy to the attention of: Professor Ralph Sarkonak, Acting Head, Department of French, Hispanic and Italian Studies, UBC, 797 – 1873 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z1. Applicants should also arrange for three confidential letters of reference to be sent directly by their referees to the attention of Professor Ralph Sarkonak to either of the addresses provided above. Review of completed applications will begin soon after December 1, 2015, and will continue until the position is filled. Enquiries may be addressed to Professor Ralph Sarkonak via email at: [mailto:ralph.sarkonak@ubc.ca ralph.sarkonak@ubc.ca].

MLA JIL 10/30/2015

UPDATES:

University of California, Davis (CA) - TT Assistant or Associate Professor in Comparative Literature and Italian
The Departments of Comparative Literature and French & Italian, UC Davis, seek a scholar of superior accomplishment and/or promise to fill a tenure-track or tenured, Assistant or Associate Professor position in Comparative Literature and Italian, beginning July 1, 2016. We are seeking a literature specialist with broad comparative and interdisciplinary interests and a strong foundation in Italian language and culture. Candidate must have a Ph.D. or equivalent, native or near-native proficiency in Italian, and demonstrated commitment to research and teaching. He or she will also need to demonstrate aptitude for and investment in departmental service. Applicants should submit a letter of application, current CV, an optional statement of contributions to diversity, and four letters of recommendation through the online application form: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/apply/JPF00663 by November 15, 2015. The position is open until filled.

UPDATES:
 * Also posted at Comparative 2015
 * Is it possible to use Interfolio for the letters here? If yes, how?
 * Each of your letters of recommendation has a unique "document email." Put in that email address (if you click on the letter in interfolio, you'll see it) and interfolio will be contacted & send in the recommendation.
 * Thanks!


 * Interfolio doesn't seem to work with their website, and in the fine print they say that candidates who use a dossier service should contact the hiring department for instructions via their application email platform (ie, there is no one human contact person). Did anyone do this already who would be willing to share what the solution was?
 * I just checked my submitted apllication and my letters do seem to have made it via the Interfolio "document email" method described above (11/15).
 * Update for anyone still working on the application today - it did eventually work, it just took two hours for the requests to get to Interfolio. In the meantime, I'd found other job advertisements from as recently as last spring saying that UC Davis didn't accept dossier service docs. Glad it worked, at any rate! And thanks, poster above, for confirming that yours went through.


 * Any sense as to what they are looking for here with this very broad call?
 * I have heard from reliable sources they are in search of an early-modernist.
 * Huh. Why not state that in the call?
 * B/c the situation there is tense: a long-standing struggle between the interests of Italian & Comp Lit.


 * Request for writing sample (11/20) (x 3)
 * Does this mean the first stage is closed or are they still looking through applications and letting people know as they go along?

University of Maryland in College Park (MD) - TT Assistant Professor of Italian and Film Studies
The School of Languages, Literatures and Cultures ( SLLC ) at the University of Maryland in College Park invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Italian and Film Studies beginning in Fall 2016. The area of specialization should be Italian Cinema with a strong interest in global and transnational film cultures. We seek a scholar with the ability to teach a wide range of courses in Italian language and literature, film in general, as well as post-war Italian culture and intellectual history. This position is contingent on the continued availability of funds.

Minimum Qualifications: The successful candidate must be committed to undergraduate education and ready to contribute to existing initiatives in SLLC and in the College of Arts and Humanities such as the Center for Literary and Comparative Studies and the Consortium on Race, Gender and Ethnicity ( CRGE ). The candidate should also be committed to working within the expanding Program in Film Studies. Evidence of outstanding scholarship and excellence in teaching are essential. Publications are preferred. Requirements include: native or near-native fluency in Italian and English, and a Ph.D. in hand by December 31, 2015.

Posting Date: 09/23/2015

Best Consideration Date: 11/23/2015

INDEED.COM

UPDATES:


 * Any idea if this is a "real" job search or the position is meant for an internal candidate? Because one lecturer in the Italian dept. has all the requirements they are looking for. Thanks!
 * This is the same search that they had to cancel last year due to a university funding freeze. It's real.


 * Request for recommendation letters sent (11/24) x2

===University of Massachusetts, Boston (MA) - TT Assistant Professor (Italian & French)=== We seek a full-time tenure-track assistant professor of Early Modern Literary and Cultural Studies with expertise in Italy, France, and the Mediterranean beginning September 1, 2016. The typical teaching course load is two courses a semester. Responsibilities include teaching Italian and French upper-level courses in literature and culture of the Early Modern period through the 19th century (in the original languages), comparative courses for a new departmental major, and Italian language at all levels. Research interests might include the correlation between literary, material and visual cultures and comparative interests that go beyond customary boundaries of Italian and French Studies.

Minimum requirements include native or near-native fluency in Italian, French and English and a Ph.D. in hand by appointment date. A proven ability to create and teach innovative interdisciplinary courses with broad appeal in English and experience in curricular and extra-curricular program development are highly desirable.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter including a statement of research interests and teaching philosophy, CV, evidence of undergraduate teaching excellence, and contact information for three letters of recommendation online.

For full consideration, application materials should be submitted by December 1, 2015.

Apply at: http://umb.interviewexchange.com/candapply.jsp?JOBID=65090&jobboard=148

UPDATES:
 * Also posted at French and Francophone Studies 2015-2016

===University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (NC) - TT Assistant Professor of Italian (Medieval Italian Literature)=== Position Summary: UNC Chapel Hill Department of Romance Studies - Assistant Professor of Italian The Department of Romance Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill invites qualified applicants to apply for a tenure-track position in Italian at the rank of Assistant Professor. The field of specialization is medieval Italian literature and culture. The Department seeks candidates to teach courses on Dante, Petrarch, Boccaccio, and other aspects of medieval Italian literature and culture, at both the graduate and undergraduate level. Evidence of outstanding scholarship and teaching excellence are required. The successful candidate will have native or near-native fluency in Italian and must hold a PhD in Italian or related field at the time of employment. The position begins July 1, 2016 and carries a 2-2 teaching load with significant expectations for research, as well as departmental service. Applicants must apply online at http://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/84310 by 11:59 p.m. on November 19th, 2015 December 2nd, 2015 and submit a cover letter, CV, and a writing sample demonstrating his or her research. At the time of application candidates will also be required to identify the names, titles, and email addresses of professional references (four are required). References must be at level of tenure-track assistant professor or higher. These letters must be on Institutional letter head. Recommenders identified by the applicant will be contacted via email with instructions for uploading their letters of support. These letters must be received by November 25th 2015 December 4th, 2015. Alternatively, applicants may list Interfolio as a reference and the application system will solicit recommendations directly from Interfolio. Please see http://help.interfolio.com/entries/24062742-Uploading-Letters-to-an-Online-Application-System for instructions. Special Note: The first round of interviews will be held at the MLA convention in Austin, Texas. See link for information http://www.mla.org/convention Questions regarding the position should be directed to Professor Ennio Rao, Search Committee Chair, Department of Romance Studies, CB #3170, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-3170, erao@email.unc.edu.

UPDATES:
 * MLA JIL 10/2/15 says: Status: Search has been cancelled. However, the link to apply still works, although the deadlines have been changed (as updated above). [posted 10/3/15]
 * That was a glitch that should be fixed asap. The search is open.

University of Pennsylvania (PA) - TT Asst. Professor of Italian Studies
The Italian Studies Division in the Department of Romance Languages at the University of Pennsylvania seeks applications for a tenure track position at the Assistant Professor level in Italian Studies. The candidate should have a PhD and native or near native proficiency in Italian; a strong background in 20th & 21st century literature, and in Cinema and Performance studies; the ability to teach large courses in English. The candidate is expected to maintain a research program that inspires a highly motivated undergraduate and graduate student body. Candidates must possess the skills to teach compelling courses in Italian language and culture at all levels. Evidence of excellent teaching is required and previous experience in teaching and mentoring successful undergraduate research is preferred.

Submit applications online at http://facultysearches.provost.upenn.edu/postings/613 Please include letter of application, curriculum vitae, two writing samples, and the contact information of three individuals who will provide letters of recommendation. Recommenders will be contacted by the University with instructions on how to submit letters to the website. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.

(Posted July 15, 2015 at InsideHigherEd)

UPDATES:
 * This job is no longer listed on InsideHigherEd or the UPenn Jobs page (July 19)
 * I took the liberty of removing the strikethrough from the text above. It's early days yet and the ad may well reappear in the coming weeks, perhaps after some tweaking. In the meantime, it would be useful to have the original text available here in a legible format. The note saying that the posting has been removed makes the situation perfectly clear. (July 23)
 * Posting active again on Penn site as of 4 September.
 * No closing date for apps? Seems strange.
 * Anyone know what's going on here?
 * I have been asking around, no one knows what's exactly going on - but the general feeling is that something weird is in the making

University of Pittsburgh (PA) - TT Asst. Professor (Medieval and Renaissance)
The Department of French and Italian at the University of Pittsburgh invites applications for a tenure-stream position in Medieval and Renaissance Italian Literature and Culture at the Assistant Professor rank. Pending budgetary approval, the appointment will be effective fall 2016, with teaching duties beginning on September 1, 2016.

Applicants must have an active research profile, demonstrated interest and proven proficiency in teaching, native or near-native fluency in Italian and English, and PhD in hand at the time of appointment. The successful candidate will be a scholar of the Italian Middle Ages and Renaissance, able to teach broadly in those periods. We are particularly interested in candidates well-situated to contribute to our department's evolving curricular commitment to interdisciplinary fields: transnational cultural studies; studies of media and of material culture; environmental criticism; and gender studies. We also welcome applications from candidates engaged in work in the Digital Humanities and/or with a secondary interest in French Studies.

The Department of French and Italian at the University of Pittsburgh is a vibrant community of students and scholars featuring several undergraduate major tracks in Italian, Italian Studies, and French; a Masters in Italian Literature and Culture; and a PhD in French Literature and Culture. The Department's dual focus on Italian and French offers exciting opportunities for innovative and collaborative research and teaching across and beyond its programs as well as for engagement with of the many interdisciplinary programs that inform our work, such as Medieval and Renaissance Studies; Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies; Cultural Studies; the European Studies Center; as well as a robust Humanities Center.

Send complete dossier (current curriculum vitae; a letter of application containing a detailed description of research interests; three letters of recommendation; a short statement of teaching philosophy; an article-length writing sample; and a teaching dossier containing sample syllabi, a representative sample of teaching evaluations, and examples of course assignments) by November 15, 2015 to the attention of Lina Insana, Chair, Department of French and Italian on-line at https://facultysearch.as.pitt.edu/apply/index/MTMy. For each reference, you will have the opportunity to input a personal email address or an email address generated through Interfolio's Online Application Delivery.

UPDATES:

University of Toronto (CAN: ON) - TT Asst. Professor in Italian Cinema
The Department of Italian Studies and the Cinema Studies Institute at the University of Toronto invites applications for a tenure-stream position in the field of Italian Cinema. The position will be at the rank of Assistant Professor commencing, July 1, 2016.

The University of Toronto faculty appointments will be to the Department of Italian Studies (67%) and Cinema Studies Institute (33%). We are seeking an innovative and productive scholar whose major field of research is Italian Cinema and Modern Literature (19th and 20th centuries). A proven record of publications in the field of Italian Cinema Studies is essential. The successful candidate will be expected to teach courses at both graduate and undergraduate levels in the above mentioned areas in both Units as well as Italian language courses. An active research interest in 19th-20th-century Italian Literature and in Language Teaching and Learning would be regarded as a special asset. The candidate must have excellent oral and written Italian language skills.

The successful candidate must have a Ph.D. by the date of the appointment, or shortly thereafter. Demonstrated excellence in teaching and research is required, as evidenced by documents submitted (samples of publications in Italian, student surveys and evaluations, letters from referees, course outlines, etc.).

To be considered for this position, all application materials must be submitted online by clicking on the link below. Applications should include a cover letter, a statement of current and future research and teaching philosophy, a curriculum vitae, and materials relevant to research and teaching experience (e.g., sample publication in Italian as well as in English, course outlines and handouts, student survey results).

Submission guidelines can be found at: http://uoft.me/how-to-apply. We recommend combining attached documents into one or two files in PDF/MS Word files in the following format: 1) Letter, CV, and research & teaching statements; 2) Publications. Applicants should arrange three letters of reference (at least one of which should focus on teaching) to be sent directly by email (on letterhead, signed and scanned) to [mailto:Gloria.Cernivivo@utoronto.ca Gloria.Cernivivo@utoronto.ca] by the closing date. To receive full consideration, applications and all materials must be received by November 1, 2015. If you have any questions about this position, please contact [mailto:Gloria.Cernivivo@utoronto.ca Gloria.Cernivivo@utoronto.ca]

For further details and to apply online: https://utoronto.taleo.net/careersection/10050/jobdetail.ftl?job=1500927

Closing date for applications is November 1, 2015.

Information on the Department of Italian Studies may be obtained at: www.italianstudies.utoronto.ca

Information on the Cinema Studies Institute may be obtained at: http://sites.utoronto.ca/cinema/.

The University of Toronto is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from visible minority group members, women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, members of sexual minority groups, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

UPDATES:
 * Also posted at Film Studies 2015-2016
 * anyone know what's going on with this job- why do they advertise it every year, even though it's been repeatedly filled? Is 'stream' rather than 'track' a bit of a scam?
 * The person who got the job two/three years ago decided to leave to return to the States; not sure what is going on with the TT Italian Cinema Professor hired last year and listed to teach in the Fall...
 * I heard that he is visiting. Even though his title is Assistant Professor, his job is not TT. Moreover, this is a joint appointment with Cinema Studies: a slightly different position from those advertised 2/3 years ago.


 * - In case anyone else was wondering: Interfolio will work for recommendations (I double-checked with Ms. Cernivivo).
 * Skype interviews scheduled by email [11/7] x3

West Chester University (PA) - TT Asst. Professor of Italian
Join a vibrant campus community whose excellence is reflected in its diversity and student success. West Chester University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Languages and Cultures invites applicants for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Italian beginning late August 2016.

Minimum Qualifications: Required qualifications: Ph.D. in Italian or Italian Studies (or a closely related field) in hand by August 15, 2016, and documented strong commitment to, experience, and evidence of excellence in the teaching of the following three areas: (1) Italian language courses, (2) culture and civilization courses in Italian and English, and (3) French or Spanish language courses. Native or near-native fluency in Italian and English, as well as in either French or Spanish, and evidence of strong research potential and ability are also required.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience or demonstrable interest in study abroad programs. The successful candidate may teach a wide range of courses, but primarily Italian and French (or Italian and Spanish) language and culture, normally with a 12-credit load per semester.

Special Instructions: Candidates should submit: letter of application, C.V., statement of teaching philosophy, relevant syllabi and a writing sample to the online application system at http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wcupa/default.cfm. In addition, please arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to: search-italian@wcupa.edu Initial screening of applicants will begin on November 6, 2015 and continue until the position is filled. Finalists must successfully complete on-site interview, a teaching demonstration and a research presentation. The filling of this position is contingent upon available funding. West Chester University is a vibrant regional comprehensive state university located in growing, historical West Chester, 20 miles west of Philadelphia and with easy access to major northeastern cities. The Department of Languages and Cultures is a diverse and energetic scholarly community. Developing and sustaining a diverse faculty and staff advances WCU’s educational mission and strategic plan, Building on Excellence. West Chester University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. All offers of employment are subject to and contingent upon satisfactory completion of all pre-employment criminal background checks.

INDEED.COM

UPDATES:
 * Skype Interview scheduled (11/25)

Colby College (ME) - One-Year Visiting Position in Italian
The Department of French and Italian is seeking a Faculty Fellow in Italian for a one-year position, to begin September 1, 2016. PhD preferred, ABD considered. The successful candidate will be part of an energetic department committed to providing the best education possible to talented undergraduates. We are particularly interested in individuals with considerable experience in language instruction and teaching/research expertise in contemporary Italian culture, and especially literature and film. The teaching load will be four courses (2/2), at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels.

Applications must include: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, one-page statements of teaching philosophy and research interests, a representative sample of current scholarship (e.g., reprints of recently published work or a sample of work in progress) and evidence of teaching effectiveness (e.g., complete sets of course evaluations for two different classes). Applications need to be submitted electronically in pdf format to italianstudiessearch@colby.edu. Address all inquiries to Bénédicte Mauguière, Chair of Italian Search Committee (bnmaugui@colby.edu). Review of applications will start on November 20 and continue until the position is filled.

https://apply.interfolio.com/32363

UPDATES:

Dickinson College (PA) - Visiting Assistant Professor of Italian (Non-Tenure Track)
Dickinson College Department of French and Italian invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor of Italian. This is a one-year, non tenure-track position in Italian Language, Literature, and Culture, beginning Fall 2016, renewable for a second year upon successful evaluation. We seek a candidate in Italian Studies, who can teach effectively at all levels of the curriculum, including Italian through theater, and will participate fully in the life of a vibrant Italian program. Preferred areas of specialization: 19th and/or early 20th century Italian literature and culture, colonialism, and migration studies, with strong interest and background in language pedagogy and teaching with technology. Demonstrated excellence in teaching and ability to create inclusive learning environments for an increasingly diverse student body will be fundamental characteristics of the successful candidate. Native or near-native fluency in Italian is required. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Italian in hand by time of appointment. Teaching load is 3-2.

Please submit via https://jobs.dickinson.edu by November 1, 2015, CV, cover letter, three letters of recommendation, teaching philosophy statement, writing sample, teaching evaluations, and syllabi samples to the Chair of the Department of French and Italian, Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA 17013. Preliminary interviews will be held at the MLA convention in Austin, Texas.

(The College is committed to building a representative and diverse faculty, administrative staff, and student body. We encourage applications from all qualified persons.)

UPDATES:
 * Is November 1, 2015 the actual submit by date? There is a different date posted under the actual job site.


 * - Deadline just extended to November 8, 2015
 * Any news?

Princeton University (NJ) - Senior Lecturer
Senior Lecturer in Italian to begin September 1, 2016, one or two three-year terms followed by a five-year renewable term. Seeking experienced teacher of Italian language with fluency in Italian and English, and with established record as a coordinator of the undergraduate Italian language program. Demonstrated interest in classroom language pedagogy and current methodologies. Experience in overseas programs and the intellectual and administrative life of the program highly desirable. Ph. D required. Applications, including the curriculum vitae, one-page personal statement of methodological approach, and contact information for three references can be submitted online via http://jobs.princeton.edu. For fullest consideration, please apply no later than December 1, 2015. Only candidates selected for a Skype interview will be notified by January 15, 2016.

UPDATES:

Tulane University (LA) - Professor of Practice, Italian (3 yr. renewable)
The Department of French and Italian at Tulane University is seeking applications for a Professor of Practice in Italian. The position is non-tenure track with a three-year contract, renewable for a second three-year term, and subsequently for three-to-five-year terms. Starting salary is $40,000. The position will begin on July 1, 2016. Preference will be given to candidates with specific training in language pedagogy as well as expertise in Italian literature (area of specialization open). PhD must be in hand by June 30, 2016. Native or near-native fluency in Italian is required. The teaching load is 3 courses per semester and includes language courses at all levels as well as advanced literature courses. Please submit letter of application, curriculum vitae, and three letters of recommendation through Interfolio at http://apply.interfolio.com/31911. For questions you may contact Michael Syrimis at msyrimis@tulane.edu or (504) 865-5115. Review of applications will begin November 16 and continue until the position is filled. Interviews will be conducted by phone or Skype. Tulane University is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to excellence through diversity. Tulane will not discriminate against individuals with disabilities or veterans. All eligible candidates are encouraged to apply.

MLA JIL 10/2/15

UPDATES:
 * Translation: we seek someone with PhD-level expertise in literature/culture AND in second-language acquisition who will do more teaching than an Asst. Prof. for 2/3 the starting salary and no prospect of tenure. Ouch.
 * Thank you! This is laughable.  For anyone considering applying to this: imagine yourself instead working from 9-5 in a basic admin job and then having the rest of the day and, dare i say it--the weekend--to pursue having a life.  And making more than $40,000.
 * I agree with the previous poster. $40,000 is the annual salary of somebody with a Master Degree, not a PhD (and this position requires a PhD...so Dr.  X/XY is asked to apply so he/she can be paid like he/she has a Master Degree...??? where is the logic here?. Of course, they can do that, with this market...they hold the knife by the handle.


 * Tip from an insider: Tulane is also notorious for trying to get rid of people just when they are eligible for promotion to a higher pay grade. They pay their VAPs only $40,000 too, with no prospect of a long-term appointment. And no research support. But they seem to have plenty of money for athletics and other stuff.

University of Denver (CO) - Asst. Teaching Professor (Non-TT - 3 yr. Contract)
The Department of Languages and Literatures at the University of Denver will hire a Teaching Assistant Professor of Italian for appointment to begin September 1, 2016. This is a non-tenure track position, with full benefits and a 3-year contract, renewable; promotion possible. The annual teaching load is eight classes on a quarter calendar. The person appointed will teach all levels of Italian, though mainly beginning, 1st-year classes. She or he will also serve as coordinator of a multi-section beginning Italian sequence: duties include the development of rigorous and stimulating beginning language curriculum, the hiring and training of adjunct faculty, and annual assessment of the basic language program. We will conduct semifinalist interviews at the MLA Convention in Austin early January. Deadline for applications is October 15, 2015.
 * Contacted for MLA interview (10/30)

Chronicle

UPDATES:
 * "Teaching Assistant Professor." Sigh
 * ˆ Seconded.
 * ˆˆ Thirded.


 * This job posting is so wrong, I cannot even believe it. What does even mean "promotion possible"? Also, note that they want to hire a temporary faculty to develop a language curriculum and to hire and train adjunct faculty.
 * "Promotion possible" means that this is a ranked position. Although the candidate enters at the Assistant Professor level s/he can potentially be promoted to (non-TT) Associate Professor, etc. These ranked renewable positions are actually getting to be pretty standard, as is the practice of hiring a non-TT program coordinator.


 * Contacted for a MLA interview (10/30)
 * Contacted for MLA interview (11/13) [x3]
 * Contacted for MLA interview (11/20)
 * NB: Chairperson is a little kooky  (interviewed with him a few years ago)

University of Washington (WA) - French & Italian Studies – Lecturer, Full-time, competitive recruitment (AA14852)
LINK: http://ap.washington.edu/ahr/academic-jobs/position/aa14852/

UPDATES:

Georgia Institute of Technology (GA) - Chair, School of Modern Languages
The School of Modern Languages of the Georgia Institute of Technology seeks an entrepreneurial, collaborative Chair to lead a dynamic and innovative faculty team dedicated to redefining the study of language and culture for the 21st century.

The School is united around a vision of applied foreign language and cultural proficiency coupled with understanding of intercultural issues as crucial for careers. It draws on its unique setting as part of a premier technological university to deliver cutting-edge programs that focus on preparing students to participate in the global workforce through advanced communication skills, critical and creative thinking, intercultural understanding and professional competency in nine languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Russian, and Spanish.

Part of Georgia Tech's Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts, the School offers an innovative B.S. degree in Applied Languages and Intercultural Studies (ALIS) as well as degrees in Global Economics and Modern Languages (GEML) and International Affairs and Modern Languages (IAML), and we look forward to a chair who will lead our efforts in designing an innovative Master’s program.

Twenty-three tenure-track faculty members and thirty non-tenure-track instructors provide administrative and instructional support to a growing number of majors, dual majors, and minors. Oversight of our academic programs requires a commitment to progressive education, international programs, and multi-disciplinary collaboration in the College and the Institute. For additional information, see http://www.modlangs.gatech.edu/.

The candidate must possess a Ph.D. or other appropriate terminal degree and a scholarly record that merits a tenured appointment at the rank of full professor. The individual should have demonstrated leadership, preferably in higher education; a proven aptitude for effective financial, academic, and personnel management; a keen interest in supporting faculty scholarship; a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion; experience in strategic planning and fund-raising; and the ability to articulate the unit’s innovative programs within an Institute committed to expanding connections between the humanities, sciences and technology, and international education. Leaders with experience outside of academia, but knowledgeable about the academic enterprise, are also strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply, candidates will send:

(1) a cover letter surveying their expertise for the position

(2) a curriculum vitae (including a list of five references),

(3) a concise leadership philosophy, all emailed as one single PDF,

Applications or nominations should be sent to mlchairsearch@modlangs.gatech.edu.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Start date for the position: July 1, 2016.

LINK: http://www.modlangs.gatech.edu/current-openings

UPDATES:

WORD ON THE STREET
I would like to know whether there are different job interview procedures for assistant professor, visiting assistant professor and lecturer positions. Thank you.


 * -- It depends on the institution. Many schools hire VAPs and lecturers based only on phone or skype interviews, while some also bring finalists for campus visits and ask for teaching demo and/or job talk, much like an AP position.

Any news on the VAP position at University of San Diego?
 * Are you talking about the one that starts in January? Applications were due on Sept. 1. I sent in my materials, received confirmation that my application was complete, and was told that people will be notified in Sept./early Oct. for initial telephone/Skype interviews. Haven't heard anything since then.
 * Any news?
 * 9/20 I haven't heard anything.
 * Tutto tace?
 * Any news?
 * Nothing 10/12
 * Position filled (see https://www.sandiego.edu/cas/languages/italian/biography.php?ID=1453) (11/14)

Did anyone hear anything about a job at Harvard? Will they be running a search this year?
 * As far as I know, the dean did not approve the department's request for a search.

After seeing the MLA job list yesterday, I have the distinct feeling that this year's market is even more abysmal than 2014-15. I do remember that some jobs opened up later in the Fall, so it might still be early to tell, but I also remember there were a few more postings last year around this time. Does anyone else have the same impression? Also, as someone who has been following the market for a few years, I have a very strong feeling that there are not many new lines being created. Many postings are there to replace those lucky folks who had jobs already and who moved up to more desireable locations (or more prestigious schools); some AP lines are there to replace people who did not pass their tenure reviews; a few more intend to convert a VAP or a non-TT line into a permanent job. So basically it's always the same few people getting jobs over and over, which makes it very hard for those of us stuck in non-TT positions, and nearly impossible for ABDs to get their foot in the door. What I see is a constant reshuffling of a stale market, with fewer and fewer jobs available for a growing pool of highly qualified candidates. Am I correct in this interpretation, or am I being overly pessimistic? Please note I'm just trying to make sense of a very unhealthy market dynamics. I am not interested in slander, polemics, personal attacks, or any of the behaviour we witnessed last year on this website. Thanks in advance!


 * Concordo! Penso tu abbia ragione su tutta la linea, ma, dal momento che non cambieremo lo stato delle cose discutendone su questa wiki, sarebbe bellissimo se quest'anno riuscissimo ad evitare gli orrori delle due passate edizioni (insulti, voci di corridoio transformate in verità supreme, sessismi vari, variegate cazzate su italiani vs. americani etc. etc. etc.). Quale sia la situazione lo sappiamo tutti. Cerchiamo di far restare questa Wiki semplicemente uno strumento e non un'inutile (e un po' ridicola: ho amici in altri campi che ci studiano come genere letterario a se stante) tribuna del rancore. Grazie!


 * Concordo anch'io, però...it is still early. In the many years that I have eagerly awaited the re-opening of the MLA JIL, I have regularly been disappointed come mid-September. I'm not saying the market isn't wretched, but the list often looks a lot better a few weeks in. Forza e corraggio to one and all!


 * Agree with both of the last comments. 1) The last two years' wikis have epitomized the extent to which young academics have internalized the corporatist, dog-eat-dog rhetoric of the modern university. I hope it's not too naive to wish that this year people will view their fellow job-seekers as current and future colleagues, not wicked insiders with a leg up on everyone else. 2) The old model of September -- ads go out; MLA Convention -- semi-finalist interviews; February-March -- campus visits has lost its monopoly. We've seen TT jobs decided before Christmas, others not advertised until Winter/Spring, and an increasing use of skype interviews for the first round. Even those searches that do follow the traditional model sometimes post their ads in October or even early November (because you've booked your ticket to Austin already, right?) Insomma: nil desperandum. There will be more jobs, albeit not as many as any of us would like.


 * The problem is not only the fewer jobs, but also the fact that they are all in contemporary Italian lit/cinema. At least few years ago there were still some jobs for Dantisti...
 * As several commenters pointed out, September was too early to give up hope. A few weeks later it's no longer a bad year for Dantisti. Anzi, 3 medieval jobs plus a couple of open specialization positions represents  a "good" year, relatively speaking.
 * The dantisti and the modernists have done reasonably well in the last years, all things considered. It's the Renaissance folks who keep encountering a barren field.
 * Mid-modernists aren't terribly thrilled, either.


 * I just wanted to thank those who replied earlier for your encouraging and constructive words. I, too, hope we'll be able to avoid the snark seen on this board in the past and that we'll be able to see each other as present/future colleagues instead. Best of luck to everyone!
 * Yes agree with the first post (and I have been around applying for jobs since 2008). Every year is getting worse. Your assessment is quite correct (we used to have two rounds back in the days; for example in 2010-11 there were about 20-25 TT jobs by mid October/early November and about 7-10 different TT jobs would come up in January-February (alongside 10-15 lecture or VAP positions, for a total of about 30-35 TT jobs per year (or 50-66 between TT or NTT positions per year). Then in 2013 there was a big decline reaching its peak in 2014-15 (last year there were about 10 TT jobs if I recall correctly, and 20 jobs overall). So it looks like this year there are fewer jobs and less opportunities overall. However, this does not mean that ABD are not getting TT jobs. A few ABD got TT jobs last year (and this is because it is appealing to have a young and fresh junior faculty rather than a seasoned professor (this especially for private liberal arts colleges/universities). So the game is open for all. In bocca al lupo e ...stay positive!

A quick question for anyone who is on the job market. How many TT positions do you think still interview at the MLA? Or has it switched over to most being done via Skype?
 * Anecdotally, it seems to be about half and half. I was fortunate last year to have quite a few TT-position interviews. Half were at MLA, half were via Skype, and a couple gave the option of either an in-person at MLA or a Skype interview. Most job listings - like Alabama and Dickinson above - will specify whether or not first-round interviews will take place at MLA.
 * For the jobs that don't specify it is perfectly acceptable to email the contact person in the ad (or the departmental administrator if no email is given) to ask. The answer to this question varies widely from one institution to another so it's worth checking before you decide whether to make travel plans for the MLA.

Avrei bisogno di un aiuto/consiglio da qualcuno ben informato al riguardo (ideally someone who works or has worked in the Academy recently): I see that all US applications for Academy related jobs require 3 academic referee's names o even 3 recomandation letters by 3 academic refeeres. But what if you don't have 3 academic refeeres to include in your application? I mean, 3 refeeres are a lot, especially if you currently don't work in the academy as researcher, assistant, etc. Are you automatically cutted out, or can you add as third referee another person from a not Academy-related job? Grazie mille. In plain words, I wouldn't have any hope to be considered for an Academic job (apart from other things), just because I would have only two instead of three academic referees. :-)
 * Welll in the U.S. for U.S. academic jobs in this field you must have at least three academic referees. If you don't have three you can find someone else, but it is a big gamble. If you decide to add a non-academic reference, make sure that this non-academic referee would be able to say something  professional about your skills and performance that could fit the job that you are applying to. Like in Italy, here in the U.S. is all about connection, so your referee should be someone related to the academic field (affiliated to a respectful university, with an academic rank, and title, etc.). A reference that is not academic will not do. Ma in ogni caso, in bocca al lupo.

Another query (if I may): Normally three letters of recommendation are required. Do they have to be sent by the referees every time you apply for a post or your referees can write a (general) letter of recommendation for you (on a headed paper), send that to you, so you will be able to join those letters at your applications? (and the Academics will be able to check the authenticity of the letters contacting the refeeres). I'm asking that, because sometimes for the refeers is time consuming to write letters of recommendation for every post you would apply, especially if these are "at close range".

I think most of us use Interfolio nowadays for letters of reference: your reccomenders upload a general letter (or two: one for jobs one for postdocs) on the website and then you forward them to the search committees.

In a nutshell, what the Academy means with: "salary commensurate with experience". Is there a (legal) minimum wage?

No, there is no legal floor for an academic salary. "Salary commensurate with experience" just means that you will be paid according to your level of education, your work experience in the field, and, of course, the position for which you are hired. For example, very often for Lectureships there is one salary for an employee with an M.A. and another for someone who has a Ph.D. (Say, a difference of 4-5 thousand dollars.) Salaries also vary widely according to whether you are a Lecturer, a VAP, an Assistant Professor or an Associate Professor. The stock phrase "salary commensurate with experience" also gives insitutions some wiggle room in regards to what they end up offering you.

I second the previous comment but I'd stress how much the job title matters when it comes to the salary offer. Not so much between lecturers and VAPs ($4-5k sounds about right) but between non-TT and TT ($10-$20k and sometimes even more). What I've seen in the places I've worked (private research Us and Liberal Arts Colleges) suggests that the dean of the school/division sets starting salaries for the various ranks. To get more you need to a) negotiate and b) have some leverage (usually another offer or a current job you can stay in). You never know what's going on behind the scenes so it is almost always a good idea to ask for more, although only from a Dean, not someone in the hiring department. A finished PhD is the one thing I've seen that reliably has impact on one's salary. In many institutions you can't hold any job title containing "professor" (including VAP and AP) without a completed PhD; ABD's are automatically titled "Lecturer" and paid less until they get their doctorate. Even where the title stays the same, completing your PhD usually carries a pay increase.