Italian 2013-2014

Page for Italian Jobs that begin in 2014.

Italian 2012-2013 *|* Italian 2011-2012

RSS Feed: http://academicjobs.wikia.com/wiki/Italian_2013-2014?feed=rss&action=history

What's Your Status?
PhD in hand, currently in TT job: 1

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

PhD in hand VAP: 3

PhD in hand adjunct: 4

PhD in hand postdoc fellowship: 1

PhD in hand, unemployed: 2

PhD in hand, non-academic job: 1

ABD, looking to defend this year: 6

ABD in non-TT job: 1

Your Field
Medieval: 4

Renaissance: 5

17th:

18th:

20th 1

19th:2

20th: 8

Cinema: 3

SLA/Pedagogy (language and culture):

Linguistics and sociolinguistics: 1

Other?

Binghamton University (NY) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of Romance Languages and Literatures at Binghamton University, State University of New York, seeks a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Italian beginning in Fall 2014. Specialization will be in Film Studies and Visual Culture, and the position will be affiliated with a university-wide "Transdisciplinary Area of Excellence" on the Material and Visual Worlds. The successful candidate will teach courses in Italian language, culture, and literature at both the undergraduate and graduate levels; will have an active research agenda; and will participate in departmental service, including organizing and running activities for students. This is an affiliated position for Material and Visual Worlds, one of five Transdisciplinary Areas of Excellence (TAEs) that Binghamton University has identified for growth under the auspices of its SUNY2020 plan. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of this TAE as an area of intensive research and teaching. The search committee will include members of the Material and Visual Worlds steering committee. For information on the TAEs, go to http://www.binghamton.edu/academics/provost/tae2013.html.

Requirements: The successful candidate will have the PhD in hand or have completed all the requirements for the Ph.D. by May 2014.

Application Instructions: Applicants will submit a cover letter and an up-to-date curriculum vitae, research statement, teaching statement, and three recommendation letters to http://binghamton.interviewexchange.com. Candidates may include other materials they deem pertinent to the application. The search committee will begin reviewing applications on November 15, 2013, and the search will continue until the position is filled. Contact Dana Stewart stewart@binghamton.edu or Antonio Sobejano sobe@binghamton.edu, Chair, Department of Romance Languages and Literatures, phone 607-777-4642 with questions.

Online Application Form: http://binghamton.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=43839

Updates:

-any update here?


 * Invitation for skype interview (12/12) and (12/17)
 * Any campus visit scheduled? - had a skype interview but not heard anything yet (as of 01/03)
 * same here: skype interview but not heard anything yet as of 01/06
 * Thank you.
 * I know of someone with a campus visit for this job. S/he found out before the New Year (01/14).
 * I received a very nice rejection e-mail stating they have organized campus visit (beginning of January).

College of William and Mary (VA) - TT Advanced Assistant Professor
The Department of Modern Languages and Literatures at the College of William and Mary seeks applications for a tenure track position at the advanced Assistant Professor level in Italian Studies. Area of specialization is open, though expertise in Film Studies, Gender Studies and/or Postcolonial Studies is preferred. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Italian or a related field at the time of appointment August 10, 2014; and native or near-native fluency in Italian and English is required. The candidate is expected to maintain a research program that inspires a highly motivated undergraduate 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. Teaching expectation is two courses per semester. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and teaching experience. Candidate must apply online at https://jobs.wm.edu. Submit a curriculum vitae and a cover letter including statement of research and teaching interests. For full consideration, submit application materials by the review date, 15 November 2013. Applications received after the review date will be considered if needed.

Updates:

Question: After how many years of teaching can one apply to a position as "advanced assistant professor"?
 * Answer: It's usually around 3 years.
 * Thanks.
 * Any news here? (3 Dec)
 * Skype interview scheduled via email (3 Dec).
 * Did anyone receive a rejection email? (Dec. 16)
 * None here (18 Dec)
 * Campus visit scheduled (18 Dec)

Dartmouth College (NH) - TT Assistant Professor
Tenure-track Assistant Professor, specialist in Italian Studies, with preference for a scholar in Medieval studies and a second area of expertise desirable such as, but not limited to, queer theory, film and media studies, literature and politics, or literature and science. Expected to teach The Divine Comedy, general courses in Italian literature and culture, and all levels of language courses. Native or near-native ability in Italian required. Excellence in teaching and promise of scholarly accomplishment expected. Ph.D. should be completed by the time of employment. Submit all materials electronically to Interfolio (www.interfolio.com) by Monday, October 28, 2013. Applications must include a letter of application with c.v., three letters of recommendation, one-page dissertation abstract and Chapter Two of the dissertation or book manuscript.

Interfolio Link: https://apply.interfolio.com/22252

Updates:


 * Did anyone hear back from the search committee?


 * I was wondering the same thing. I haven't heard anything yet. - Thanks!


 * Pazienza. Didn't hear back until early December last year, and the deadline was similar.
 * Any news from the search committee?
 * Contacted by email for MLA interview (12/6) (x2).
 * Rejection email received (12/18). (x4)
 * Campus visit scheduled by phone (01/16)

===Eastern Illinois University (IL) - TT Assistant Professor===


 * Posted at French and Francophone Studies 2013-2014

Johns Hopkins University (MD) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of German and Romance Languages and Literatures at Johns Hopkins University (http://grll.jhu.edu) is seeking applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Italian literature with an emphasis on the intersections of literature and music, broadly conceived. We invite applications from scholars working in a wide variety of periods and genres. Examples include, but are not limited to, scholars with research and/or teaching interests in opera from the 16th to the 20th century; musical intermezzi and other interludes in Renaissance theater; lyric poetry and madrigal; libretti and autobiographical writing in the 18th century, and so on. The scholar will be expected to teach courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in the area of Italian literature and music. Native or near native fluency in Italian (and English) is required; fluency in one or more additional relevant languages is preferred.

Qualifications: Applicants will need to have the PhD in hand by the appointment start date of July 1, 2014.

Application Instructions: All application materials must be submitted by November 20, 2013. The application should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae (including list of publications), statements of research and teaching interests (no more than three pages), teaching evaluations (if applicable), a writing sample the length of a typical research article or book chapter, along with three confidential letters of recommendation. Inquiries (only) should be directed to Walter Stephens 410-516-7229 (walter.stephens@jhu.edu).

Updates:


 * Job posted at Chronicle on 10/04/13.
 * Interfolio link: http://apply.interfolio.com/23235


 * Any news here?
 * Campus visit scheduled (Dec. 21) x 5
 * Very professional rejection letter received in the mail - kudos for class, JHU (Jan. 8)

McGill University (CANADA) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures at McGill  University invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position in Italian Studies. Candidates must demonstrate competitive  research and publication records (according to career stage),  substantial teaching experience, and a strong potential for  collaborative research and program development across media, disciplines, and cultures.

Italian Studies at McGill is part of a growing multidisciplinary unit offering courses and programs in German, Italian, Russian, and Spanish  languages, literatures, cultures, cinemas, and thought, as well as in digital humanities. We are seeking applications from scholars in any  areas of Italian Studies who approach their field from a wide cultural perspective. We are especially interested in candidates whose research and teaching is innovative and forward looking. The successful candidate should be prepared to teach a broad range of courses in Italian Studies  at the undergraduate and graduate level and to supervise graduate students in her/his particular areas of expertise.

Ph.D. in Italian Studies (or appropriate equivalent) is expected by the time of appointment. Native or near-native fluency in Italian and English are required. Knowledge of French is an asset. McGill is a  research intensive university and teaching duties include four courses a year. Appointment is expected to begin in Fall of 2014.

Applicants must fill out the online application form. A letter of  introduction (including a statement of how their research will  contribute to the department's interdisciplinary and intercultural  trajectory), cv, teaching portfolio, and a 10-20 page writing sample  should be submitted electronically, as well as three letters of recommendations at https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/3252. Further inquiries should be addressed to Professor Karin Bauer, Chair, Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures, McGill University, 688 Sherbooke St. West, room 425, Montreal, QC H3A 3R1. Email: [mailto:search.langlit@mcgill.ca search.langlit@mcgill.ca]. Application deadline is November 15, 2013.

In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. McGill University is committed to diversity and equity in employment. It welcomes applications from:  women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities,  persons of minority sexual orientation or gender identity, visible minorities, and others who may contribute to diversification.

Updates:

-Any news? I applied 2 years ago, what happened? The person they hired resigned to take the Villanova job last year.

An even more pressing question: what is an "interdisciplinary and intercultural trajectory"? And, once the department's done trajecting, will it still need Italian Studies?

-Do you need to have published a book, or articles are enough?
 * Articles are just enough for this position.

- Skype interview scheduled by email. (x3)
 * May I ask what field?
 * - Cinema/Contemporary Italian Studies
 * Renaissance
 * Medieval/Renaissance


 * When did you receive the email for the interview?
 * - 11/27


 * Could the others tell if they are in the same field?
 * And whether are they Canadians or not?
 * Any ABDs get interview requests or were interviews only given to PHDs-in-hand?
 * Campus visit scheduled (12/18)


 * Any news?

NYU (NY) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of Italian Studies of New York University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in modern and contemporary Italian Literature, to begin September 1, 2014, pending administrative and budgetary approval. Course load: 2 courses per semester, with opportunities to teach periodically at NYU's Villa La Pietra in Florence.

Applicants should submit a cover letter, c.v., and three references, via the "Employment" link on the NYU Department of Italian Studies web site:http://italian.as.nyu.edu. Deadline for applications is November 15, 2013.

Updates:

- it seems strange that no one seems to have been contacted, since presumably the search committee is now on holiday. Any news?
 * Any news on this one? Skype? MLA? Anything?
 * Email request for further materials, 12/20. Email said they will not be doing MLA interviews. (x2)
 * Is this a first selection? Yes

Rhode Island College (RI) - TT Assistant Professor (French/Italian)
The Department of Modern Languages at Rhode Island College invites applications for a full-time, tenure track position to teach all levels of Italian and French language, literature and culture starting Fall 2014. The position is pending budgetary approval; final appointment is subject to available funding.

Required qualifications include:Ph.D. in Italian, French or Comparative Literature; college-level teaching experience in Italian and French; native or near-native fluency in Italian and French and the ability to teach both Italian and French.

Application deadline: January 31, 2014.

IMPORTANT: For full job description, which includes additional responsibilities and requirements for the position and application procedures, see our web site at https://employment.ric.edu/

Candidates must apply on-line, using Rhode Island College’s PeopleAdmin Applicant Tracking system.

The doctoral or other appropriate terminal degree is required for the tenure-track appointment and must be completed prior to the beginning of service.

Updates:
 * Also posted at French and Francophone Studies 2013-2014

Stony Brook University (NY) - TT Assistant Professor (from Italian 2012-2013 )
Updates:
 * Any news yet from the Stony Brook Assistant Professor search? (4/17)
 * some were asked to submit additional materials and even reference letters (4/18)
 * I heard through the grapevine that due to an error with their submission dates (on one website it said 30 April), no action will be taken until after that date. Seems kinda late?? (4/24)
 * Any updates? Did they schedule preliminary interviews yet?
 * I'm still waiting but guessing that if we don't hear anything by the end of this week, they've probably already interviewed their candidates (it's their last day of classes) (5/9)
 * Phone call received for on campus interview some time in September -- 5 candidates selected (5/10)
 * Does anyone have any post-Skype news? (10/21)
 * I heard that at least one candidate was on campus in late September (10/29)
 * Did that one candidate already do a Skype interview? (11/1)
 * Correction to the 10/29 post. I learned that that one candidate only had a Skype interview NOT a campus visit! Last I heard there is no news on the position. (11/25)
 * Received email stating the search committee has not yet made a decision on the candidate. (5 Dec)
 * Man! I remember applying for this position last year! What a drag! Good luck to the selected candidate!

UCLA (CA) - TT Assistant Professor
The University of California, Los Angeles, invites applications for an Assistant Professorship in Italian literature and culture, beginning July 1, 2014. Broad scholarly specialization will range from Dante and the European Humanist tradition to the 17th century. The successful candidate will be a committed and published scholar, with PhD in hand, a strong critical and trans-disciplinary or comparative approach to research, and documented pedagogical abilities and interests. Teaching load will include graduate and undergraduate courses taught in Italian and English, as well as undergraduate General Education lecture courses in English. We welcome expertise in digital humanities and/or comparative Mediterranean studies, and the ability to teach comparative courses in other periods of Italian and European literature and culture.

Apply on line, by December 1, 2013, via UCLA Recruit: https://recruit.apo.ucla.edu/apply/JPF00081. Please upload an application letter, CV, three letters of reference, and one writing sample (limited to 25 pages).

Updates:


 * Invitation for Skype interview (12/10)
 * Any news?
 * A 12/9 email said the department expected to contact January Skype interviewees by 12/20. The campus is now closed until 1/2, so I assume continuing candidates have heard.


 * Any news from the search committee? Have Skype interviews taken place?
 * Yes, Skype interviews have been taking place (01/24)
 * Any news?
 * Campus invites have gone out. (3 Feb)

University of Alabama (AL) - TT Assistant Professor
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 2014. 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.

Applications should include a current curriculum vitae, a letter of application describing relevant teaching experience, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and a description of research interests/publications. Three confidential letters of recommendation are also required. Application review will begin November 15, 2013, and will continue until the position is filled. With the exception of letters of recommendation, all materials should be submitted online at facultyjobs.ua.edu. Letters of recommendation should be mailed directly to Dr. Maurizio Godorecci, Search Committee Chair, Dept. of Modern Languages and Classics, Box 870246, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0246. To apply, go to http://facultyjobs.ua.edu

Updates:
 * Notification of receipt of application sent to me by mail. (11/25) (x4)
 * What if one did not receive it?
 * Email Dr. Godorecci (mgodorec@bama.ua.edu)


 * Any updates?
 * Skype interview requested by email (12/9) (x2)
 * Any news after the Skype interview?

University of Cambridge (ENGLAND) - Lecturer (i.e., TT Assistant Professor)
The Department of Italian at Cambridge University is seeking to appoint a University Lecturer in Medieval Italian Studies.

The successful candidate will normally hold a PhD in a relevant field and will have a record of – or demonstrate clear potential for – outstanding research and publications in medieval Italian literature and culture. The successful candidate will be expected to lead the teaching, supervising and examining of students in the area of Dante and medieval Italian literature and culture, at both undergraduate (B.A.) and postgraduate (M.Phil. and Ph.D.) levels. Other duties will include, as requested by the Head of Department, teaching language, collaborating with researchers and teachers in related fields and disciplines, and contributing to the administration of the Department’s and Faculty's activities. Native or excellent near-native command of both Italian and English is essential.

The full advertisement is to be found at: http://www.mml.cam.ac.uk/faculty/Italian%20MedUTO%20Ad.pdf

Further details are to be found at: http://www.mml.cam.ac.uk/faculty/Italian%20MedUTO%20FP.pdf

You are welcome to seek further information by contacting Professor Robert Gordon (Head of Department): [mailto:rscg1@cam.ac.uk rscg1@cam.ac.uk]

Vacancy reference no.: GM02117

Salary: £37,382 - £47,314 per annum

Available from: 1st September 2014

Closing date: 12:00 noon, Monday 6th January 2014

Interview date: Friday 31st January 2014

Updates:


 * any news here?
 * Rejection e-mail received (1/20)

University of Connecticut (CT) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of Literatures, Cultures, and Languages at the University of Connecticut, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, solicits applications for a tenure-track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor. We are seeking a specialist in Italian Studies (13th-16th centuries) with broader interdisciplinary and trans-cultural focus in the area of Mediterranean Studies. This position will be in Italian Studies, but the candidate will have the opportunity to serve as an important link to Medieval Studies, the Middle Eastern Minor, the Program in Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies, and/or Hebrew and Judaic Studies.

Minimum Qualifications: A Ph.D. (or foreign equivalent) in Italian Studies, Medieval and Renaissance Studies, or a related field by June 1, 2014; native or near-native command of Italian and English; evidence of an active research agenda; strong commitment to innovative teaching.

Preferred Qualifications: Research specialization in the following possible areas: migration, race, and slavery; symbolic, cultural, material trade and exchange with the Levant or Africa; cultural and intellectual exchange and interaction with Southern, Central, and Northern Europe, or the Ottoman Empire, or the Judaic and Levantine intellectual traditions. Knowledge of Arabic or another non-European language.

This is a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track position with an anticipated start date of August 23, 2014. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Candidates may apply at Husky Hire (www.jobs.uconn.edu) to submit letter of application, curriculum vitae, evidence of successful teaching, and an article-length writing sample by January 25, 2014. Additionally, please follow the instructions in Academic Jobs Online to direct three reference writers to submit letters of recommendation on your behalf. If you have questions or need further information you may contact Dr. Rosa Helena Chinchilla via email at [mailto:rosa.chinchilla@uconn.edu rosa.chinchilla@uconn.edu].

Updates:

University of Denver (CO) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of Languages and Literatures at the University of Denver will hire an Assistant Professor of Italian to begin September 1, 2014. The successful candidate will join the University of Denver's vibrant Italian program, which offers both an undergraduate major and minor. Italian at the University of Denver is an interdisciplinary program focusing on the study of the Italian language, its manifestations in history and the study of past and present literary and artistic facets of Italian culture. Italian faculty members enjoy substantial programming and financial support from the Anna Maglione-Sie Endowment in Italian Culture.

This is a tenure-track position with full benefits. The teaching load is six classes per year on a quarter calendar. Salary is competitive. Area of specialization: 20th-and 21st-century Italian literature, cultural studies and/or film studies. The successful appointed candidate is expected to teach all levels of undergraduate language, literature and culture. Minimum requirements: native or near native fluency in Italian and English and PhD in Italian or related field required by June 1, 2014.

All applicants must apply online at http://www.dujobs.org and attach a letter of application and CV. Candidates should describe experiences related to teaching, research and/or service that demonstrate a similar commitment in their letter. Candidates are also encouraged to describe experiences related to teaching, research and/or service influenced by considerations of diversity and inclusiveness. In addition, please send three letters of recommendation, official transcript of graduate studies, statement of teaching philosophy (limit 1 page) and evidence of excellence in undergraduate Italian instruction to: Italian Search Committee, Victor Castellani, Chair, Department of Languages and Literatures, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208. Deadline for submissions is October 15, 2013. We will be conducting first-round interviews at the January 2014 MLA convention in Chicago, IL.

Applicant Contact: Colleen Lucero, Assistant to the Chair - [mailto:colleen.lucero@du.edu colleen.lucero@du.edu]

Updates:


 * Internal candidates?
 * I applied 2 years ago and had skype interview. Don't know who was offered the position at the time...
 * I don't think there is any reason to be paranoid about this. It's a search to replace the faculty who left for another job.
 * asking questions doesn't mean to be paranoid.


 * [Oct 31]: Got rejection email. Sounds like they've already actually chosen their candidate: "We have been able to very closely match our job specifications with another candidate." (x8)
 * ^ but if they are doing first round interviews at MLA? Doesn't make sense...
 * [1 Nov]: Got a bizarre email from Denver stating that their previous message was sent in error about having chosen a candidate, and that in fact my application is still being considered.
 * reviewing more than a hundred applications in less than 2 weeks seems to be a joke. I've heard they actually have a candidate in mind (as they did 2 years ago with the person who is now at USC)
 * [Nov. 1] Got a rejection email. (x2) -- Sounds like the same bizarrely worded one some people got on 10/31.
 * I received the same email this morning and will be writing directly to the secretary just to make sure. What an embarrassment! (11/1)
 * Did you receive any reply after contacting the secretary?
 * I got the rejection email but not the "oops my bad" message. Anyone else in the same boat? I am (x 6).


 * Question: did DU send any notice to confirm receipt of applications other than the odd email noted in discussion above? Thanks.
 * Answer: I received an official confirmation from DU the day after (Nov 1) receiving the "oops my bad" message
 * What was the answer from the secretary on 11/1? -- She never responded to my email but I did receive an official confirmation from DU the next day (11/5)
 * Hi all: I have never received any notice from them! what does it mean?
 * Contact the Assistant above; you should have recieved either a confirmation or rejection email from DU.


 * Received email saying that I was a semi-finalist for the MLA interview (11/10) (x4)
 * Received e-mail saying I was not considered since I haven't submitted the application in the right way (!) (x2) I think this tells you a lot about the seriousness of some people. I'm glad I'm out of this, honestly.
 * Did you write to the Assistant to ask her what exactly was wrong with your application? I can't believe that they would not take it just because it was submitted incorrectly (whatever that means). (11/12)
 * I got the same email today. The funny thing is that I had already received the involuntary rejection email two weeks ago. I hope that the madness stops here, and that people interviewed at MLA will be treated with the degree of professionalism we all deserve.


 * Did anyone of the semi-finalists receive any actual appointmment for the MLA?
 * Yes, I reeived an actual appointment (11/13) (x2)
 * Apparently, I did not! Thanks!


 * It seems that DU is keeping a subset of the semi-finalists for possible future interviews in case none of the MLA interviews work out.


 * Interviewed with them in 2010. The most bizarre interview I've sat through to date. The chair was literally half asleep throughout the entire thing. The assistant professor spoke almost unintelligible Italian. They unwittingly portrayed a rather grim picture of their program. I'm not surprised the candidate they selected back then left as soon as the contract was up.
 * I interviewed with the same chair 20 years ago.  He was a vecchio bislacco then, I can only imagine what it's like now.  "Greetings fron Denver... Alas, with no glad tidings!"  That's how his later rejection letter began.
 * My 2010 interview was ok, instead, so maybe he had an espresso right after your interview.


 * Anyone willing to share a hotel room in Chicago? I saw the prices... crazy expensive!
 * To the previous poster: I got a great deal on Priceline, $49 a night plus tax for a three-star place within 10 minutes of the conference hotels.  This was much cheaper than comparable offers on the MLA's web site.
 * I also got a better deal on the internet than with the MLA ($69/night for a three star hotel and only two short blocks north from the convention location) (14 Dec).
 * Thanks for the tip! And good luck if you have an interview!


 * Doesn't MLA have a list to match roommates? Also, and obviously this is my humble opinion, it makes sense to fork the extra $ and stay in the conference hotels, especially in cold cities that you might not be familiar with. YMMV.
 * Post-MLA rejection email (1/21)
 * On-campus visits completed by two candidates (1/30)

University of Durham (ENGLAND) - Lecturer (i.e., TT Assistant Professor)
The School of Modern Languages and Cultures seeks to appoint a permanent full-time Lecturer in Italian from September 2014 who is able to make an outstanding contribution to research and teaching in the field of Italian Studies. Applications are sought from candidates specialising in Italian studies from the Unification (1861) to the present day. Applications are particularly welcome from those specialising in subjects that chime with the broader strengths of the School, including literature, visual culture, cultural and intellectual history. Research conducted in this post will be encouraged to have impact beyond academia; a clear understanding of the impact agenda of the UK research councils is highly desirable.

Requirements: The successful candidate will undertake research, teaching and administration at a level appropriate to their skills and experience. Appointment at Grade 7 is appropriate for candidates who are likely to be early-career researchers with proven expertise in a relevant area of Italian Studies, some exposure to University-level teaching, a developing record of high-quality publications, demonstrable potential for producing research that generates impact (broadly understood) beyond the academic community, and demonstrable potential for the generation of grant funding. Appointment at Grade 8 is broadly comparable, but commensurate with a greater amount of experience and achievement, including an ability to attract and successfully supervise doctoral students, a mature record of excellent publications, a record of producing research that generates impact (broadly understood) beyond the academic community, and funding success. The successful candidate will be given a reduced teaching and administrative load during the three-year probationary period and will be supported in developing a sophisticated research portfolio.

For complete job description and application instructions please see http://tinyurl.com/q5c5tvo .

Informal enquiries can be addressed to the Head of the Italian Department, Dr Dario Tessicini [mailto:dario.tessicini@durham.ac.uk dario.tessicini@durham.ac.uk].

US-based candidates may be invited to preliminary interviews at the 2014 MLA Annual Convention in Chicago (9-12 January 2014).

Deadline for application: 10 December 2013.

Updates:
 * Invitation for a MLA Interview via Phone (12/20) (x2)
 * This job was advertised earlier in the year too, and despite interviewing candidates they didn't hire anyone for political reasons (apparently there are internal politics surrounding the potential hiring of a spouse)
 * Any news?

University of Georgia (GA) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of Romance Languages at the University of Georgia (http://rom.uga.edu) invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor (beginning August 2014) for a specialist in the language, literature and culture of the Italian Renaissance or Early Modern period. Scholarly preparation in the Seicento and Settecento are also welcome.

Required: Ph.D. in Italian or Italian Studies (or equivalent) and native or near-native fluency in Italian. Teaching load: four courses per year. The candidate should be adept at Italian foreign language pedagogy, including technological applications, and be prepared to teach intermediate and advanced language classes and split-level literature and culture courses (open to both undergraduates and graduate students) taught in Italian.

Applications should include a cover letter, c.v., and three letters of recommendation. Review of applications will begin on November 8, 2013 and continue until the position is filled. Please send all materials to: Prof. Stacey Casado, Head, Department of Romance Languages, Gilbert Hall, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602-1815

Electronic submissions also accepted. Please upload all documents to Interfolio ByCommittee: https://apply.interfolio.com/23089

Updates:


 * Emailed for Skype interview (11/15) (x3)
 * Any news?
 * Do we know what their plans for campus invites/visits are?
 * Campus visit scheduled (Dec. 3)

University of Mississippi (MS) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of Modern Languages at the University of Mississippi seeks a full-time tenure-track Assistant Professor of Italian to begin Fall 2014. Duties include teaching all levels of language courses in the department's Italian curriculum and assisting in other departmental related duties. Minimum qualifications include: a PhD in Italian or related field; three years of experience teaching basic Italian; native or near-native ability in Italian and English. To apply for the position, follow the on-line application procedure at [http://jobs.olemiss.edu] and attach your cover letter and CV, which gives the name of three references. Inquiries may be directed to mldyer@olemiss.edu. Applications will be received until the position is filled or until an adequate applicant pool is established.

Updates:
 * The director of the Italian program has been a VAP since 2003. Is this all theater for her to hire herself on the TT?
 * Truth is better than fiction! Maybe they finally came around to permanently hiring her?

University of Toronto (CANADA) - TT Assistant Professor
The Department of Italian Studies at the University of Toronto invites applications for a tenure-stream appointment in the field of Italian Medieval Literature and Culture. A proven record of publications in the field of Italian Medieval Literature and Culture is essential. The candidate should also possess a strong knowledge of Latin and Old Italian. The successful candidate will be expected to teach courses at both graduate and undergraduate levels in the above-mentioned areas as well as language courses.

Applications should include a cover letter, and a statement of current and future research and teaching interests, a curriculum vitae, and materials relevant to research and teaching experience (e.g., course outlines and handouts, student survey results). Applicants should also ask three referees to send letters (at least one of which should focus on teaching) directly to the department via e-mail 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, 2013.

Updates:
 * Skype interview scheduled (11/10)
 * Did they call or email to invite candidates for the Skype interviews? Thank you in advance.
 * Does anybody know if they invited candidates with European doctorates and no teaching experience in North American programs?
 * Yes, they did.


 * Is it a good idea or not to bring up Rob Ford, the mayor of Toronto during the interview? Perhaps create a clever comparison between him and Berlusconi? What do you all think?...What if you know him personally...will that help you to get this job???
 * To the previous poster's question (or at least the first part): probably better to avoid hot-button topics unless a search committee brings them up.  Why risk offending someone's political sensibilities with what's at best going to get you a few seconds of conversation?
 * Wow. Just wow. I would strongly suggest to keep politics out of an interview. It is amazing to me how foolish sometimes candidates can be. I am not surprised that someone interviewing for an Italian position would think that bringing up politics will give them an advantage. Siamo proprio malati di mafia, eh! Lo dico da italiano.
 * DO NOT mention Rob Ford at your interview. He's a polarizing subject in Toronto right now, and you'd risk really annoying somebody on the hiring committee. And an annoyed committee member means no call back.


 * Has anyone had any news post-Skype interview? Have campus invites gone out?
 * No news post-Skype interview yet (28 Nov.)
 * Campus visit scheduled (6 Dec)
 * any news here?

Borough of Manhattan Community College (NY) - Lecturer
GENERAL INFORMATION

Performs teaching and related faculty functions in area(s) of expertise and cooperate with others for the good of the institution.

Campus Specific Information: Teach all levels of courses in the Italian language. Participate in departmental and college activities, such as committee assignments, curriculum development, and mentoring student projects. Evening/Weekend schedule may be required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in area(s) of expertise, and the ability to teach successfully.

Preferred Qualifications: A Master's in Italian, Second Language Acquisition specializing in Italian, or the equivalent preferred. The preferred candidate should have evidence of excellence in Italian language teaching at all levels of undergraduate language instruction, interest in techonlogy enhanced instruction.

HOW TO APPLY

Deadline to apply: December 2, 2013

Online Application Form: https://home.cunyfirst.cuny.edu/psp/cnyepprd/GUEST/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_CE.G BL?FolderPath=PORTAL_ROOT_OBJECT.HC_HRS_CE_GBL2&IsFolder=false&IgnoreParamT empl=FolderPath%2cIsFolder

Updates:


 * Got invited to the interview today anybdy else?


 * Do you hold a Ph.D.? This position weirdly does not require it. "BA preferred MA" is this strange???
 * No since it's for a Lecturer position. An MA is probably better to have for this postion.
 * DO you think a MA is better because a Ph.D. woulb be paid more and so they cannot do otherwise due to the Union and will choose someone with a MA?
 * I don't know about the union issue but the pay difference would make complete sense.


 * -So, have you had the interview? How was it?
 * Rejection email received. (4 Feb)

===Brown University - Mellon Postdoctoral Fellow in Italian Studies and Middle East Studies, 2014-2016===
 * See full post at Humanities and Social Sciences Postdocs 2013-14

Bucknell University (PA) - Visiting Assistant Professor
Bucknell University invites applications for a one-year position as Visiting Assistant Professor of Italian Studies beginning August 2014. PhD or ABD in Italian Studies, native or near-native fluency in Italian and English, and evidence of excellence in undergraduate teaching is required. The teaching load is six courses a year (3 courses per semester). The courses may include all levels of Italian language and culture as well as courses taught in English. One of the courses might be a course on modern Italian literature or culture. The Italian Studies Department seeks student-centered faculty members with a demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity and the liberal arts mission. To apply, please submit cover letter, C.V., statement of teaching philosophy, and three letters of recommendation to http://www.bucknell.edu/jobs. All materials must be received by February 24, 2014. Questions about the position should be addressed by email to: Prof. Bernhard Kuhn at bkuhn@bucknell.edu.

Update:

Cornell University (NY) - Lecturer
The Department of Romance Studies at Cornell University seeks a lecturer in Italian language. This position is a full-time appointment with renewal contingent upon a successful review. The successful candidate will hold at least a MA in Italian, Applied Linguistics, or related field. English and Italian native-equivalent fluency is required. Preference will be given to those with expertise in the use of technology in the language classroom and experience in TA training and course coordination. Interested candidates should submit electronically a letter of application, C.V., a teaching portfolio, and three letters of recommendation at: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/3808/

The deadline for applications is February 21, 2014. Visa expedition funds are not available for this position.

Updates:


 * What does exactly mean that "Visa expedition funds are not available"? Polite and quasi-legal way to say they will not sponsor any kind of Visa? Would candidates be allowed with personal funds? (VIsiting VISAs are not too expensive).
 * A visiting Visa (like J1) wouldn't work because it's a permanent post. So yes, you are right I think.
 * Yes, you need to have a "green card" for this position. Unfortunately, this is becoming more common among departments.
 * Actually J1s are good for up to five years, which works fine for a "renewable" position (it is not described as "permanent"). In five years the candidate may get a green card in another way. I think it is illegal to exclude qualified candidates on the basis of their CURRENT VISA status. I hope they consider this matter carefully.

NYU (NY) - Visiting Fellowship
The Department of Italian Studies and the Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimò at New York University invite applications for the Tiro a Segno Fellowship in Italian American Studies, to be held during Fall 2014 and Fall 2016, pending administrative and budgetary approval. This visiting fellowship is open to academics of any rank with demonstrated expertise and a publishing record in Italian American studies. Field is open; applications from the areas of history, visual culture, anthropology, religious studies, and cultural studies are particularly encouraged.

The successful candidate will be appointed for one semester. He or she will teach two courses (normally one undergraduate and one graduate course) and will be required to offer two public lectures under the auspices of the Tiro a Segno Foundation.

Applicants should submit a cover letter, c.v. with bibliography of published works, and descriptions of proposed courses by November 1, 2013, via the “Employment” link on the NYU Department of Italian Studies web site: http://italian.as.nyu.edu.

Updates:

Ohio University (OH) - Lecturer
The Department of Modern Languages at Ohio University invites applications for a non-tenure track Lecturer position in Italian with the possibility of renewal, to begin Academic year 2014-15. The candidate will teach a minimum of three undergraduate Italian language courses per semester.

Minimum Qualifications: Master's degree in Italian or equivalent degree; Excellent proficiency in Italian; Excellence in undergraduate language teaching (1st and 2nd year).

Preferred Qualifications: Ph.D. in Italian.

Please complete the Online Application Form and attach the following documents:

1. Curriculum vitae 2. Cover letter 3. Unofficial Transcripts 4. Upload as "Other" document type: Teaching Evaluations for a minimum of three class. *Note, please edit these evaluations into one document before uploading.

Optional Documents: Actual or proposed course syllabi, teaching philosophy statement, and research interest.

You will also be prompted to key-in contact information for at least 3 reference letter providers who will receive an auto-generated email invitation to upload a recommendation utilizing a provided unique link.

Review of applications will begin January 6, 2014 and will continue until the position is filled; for full consideration all material must be received by 2/2/14.

Contact: Molly Morrison (morrison@ohio.edu) for any questions.

Online Application Form: http://www.ohiouniversityjobs.com/postings/8288

Updates:

Penn State University (PA) - Lecturer (for SPRING 2014)
The Department of Spanish, Italian and Portuguese at The Pennsylvania State University (University Park) invites applications for a full-time lectureship position (non tenure-track) in Italian, term to begin in Spring 2014 (January 6) with possibility of annual renewal. Responsibilities include teaching introductory and intermediate language courses, and advanced undergraduate literature and culture courses, according to program needs and candidate experience/expertise. Teaching load is 3-3. Applicants must have native or near-native fluency in English and Italian and hold a Ph. D. in Italian or related field. Applications from individuals with prior teaching and program-building experience and with expertise in 19th and 20th century literature and women writers will be given priority. Salary is commensurate with experience and includes benefits.

Please submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae electronically at the following website: http://www.la.psu.edu/facultysearch. Two letters of recommendation should be sent to Bonnie Rossman at bjr19@psu.edu. If unable to submit CL and CV electronically, please send to Bonnie Rossman at bjr19@psu.edu. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

Updates:
 * I've read somewhere else that the deadline is December 5.
 * This job must be bullshit, right? Posted on November 26 and the deadline for application is a week later... They must just be going through the motions because they already have someone for the job?
 * Or they received the job opening only now from the Dean and are trying to get the applicants reviewed and selected for interview before everyone goes home for the holidays? Btw, didn't they have an opening last year for a Lecturer position?
 * Yes, they did. They hired two lecturers.
 * So what do you think is going on here?
 * Any news on this one?

University of Kansas (KS) - Visiting Assistant Professor (for SPRING 2014)
The University of Kansas seeks to fill a visiting assistant professor position expected to begin as early as January 1, 2014 in the area of 20th/21st century Italian language, literature, culture, film, or related field. This appointment is a non-tenure track, term appointment initially for the Spring 2014 semester (136 days) and renewable for one additional academic year, subject to satisfactory performance. Required qualifications: Ph.D. or ABD in Italian studies or a related discipline is expected by the start date of the appointment; specialization in 20th/21st centuries, language, literature, culture, film or related field;  significant publications or strong promise of scholarly productivity; native or nearnative command of Italian and English; teaching experience at the university level in North America; and demonstrated ability to direct or co-direct the Italian Summer Language Institute program in Florence, and to assist in outreach activities, such as the Tavola italiana.

For a complete announcement and to apply online, go to https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGWEbHost/jobdetails.aspx?partnerid=25752&siteid=5447&AReq=61BR.

Submit online a letter of application, curriculum vita, statement of teaching experiences and interests, teaching evaluations, and a writing samples (article or chapter length, 3 MB a limit), and the contact information for three references. In addition, arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent separately to Prof. Caroline Jewers, Chair, Search Committee, Department of French and Italian, University of Kansas, Lawrence KS 66045 (7858644056; frenital@ku.edu).

Initial review of applications will begin December 1st, and will continue as long as needed to identify a qualified pool.

Updates:


 * So what's the deal with this job and the Penn State one? If they begin in January (as in two weeks from now) should they not have gotten in touch with someone?  Does anyone have any scoop?
 * They know we are desperate and they could hire you 3 days before the beginning of the semester.
 * Any news here?

UMASS, Amherst (MA) - Lecturer
The Italian Studies Program of the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures (LLC) invites applications for a position of Lecturer in Italian. This is a one-year full-time renewable position to begin September 1, 2014. Ph.D. in Italian or related field at the time of hire, native or near-native command of Italian and English, and experience in Foreign Language Pedagogy or Second Language Acquisition are required. Preference will be given to candidates with competence in ACTFL/NCATE program accreditation policies and with experience in online course development. Involvement in assessment practices within the department would be expected.

Please apply online and submit a c.v., cover letter, and statement of teaching philosophy to: http://umass.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=45132

Three letters of recommendation should be sent to [mailto:freital@frital.umass.edu freital@frital.umass.edu]. The search committee will begin reviewing applications on January 6th, 2014and will continue until position is filled.

Updates:


 * Internal candidate?
 * Yes, the current lecturer
 * There are three of them :)

University of North Texas (TX) - Lecturer (Multiple Year)
Job Summary: Full-time position to begin September 1, 2014 (classes begin 8/27/14). The position of Lecturer comes with full benefits and may be renewed annually based upon a favorable performance evaluation and the availability of funds. Teaching load: four undergraduate courses of Italian language, literature and culture per semester. Active participation in Department activities and committees is expected.

Minimum Qualifications: M.A. in Italian language, literature, or culture, or related field; near-native proficiency in Italian and English. College/university level teaching experience in Italian language is required.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience teaching advanced level Italian literature and culture courses; experience with program coordination/supervision; evidence of commitment to departmental service and commitment to study abroad preferred.

Special Instructions to Applicant: A short list of candidates will be asked to submit 3 reference letters and a CD/DVD of a 50-minute teaching demonstration. Review of applications will begin on November 3, 2013 and will continue until the position is filled

Online Application Form: http://apptrkr.com/393661

Updates:


 * Skype interviewed scheduled (11/19) (Was told that there were 6 skype interviews)
 * Invited for an oncampus interview (12/17) (One of three slots)
 * Last on campus visit occured and the search committee met on 1/31/14 (2/1/14)

University of Toronto (CANADA) - Assistant Professor (Two Years)
The Department of Italian Studies at the University of Toronto invites applications for a two-year contractually-limited term appointment in the field of Italian Cinema. The position will be at the rank of Assistant Professor commencing, July 1, 2014. 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 as well as language courses. An active research interest in 19th-century Italian Literature would be regarded as a special asset. The successful candidate must have a Ph.D. by the date of the appointment. Demonstrated excellence in teaching and research is required. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. All qualified applicants are invited to apply 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, course outlines and handouts, student survey results). 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 January 13, 2014. If you have any questions about this position, please contact [mailto:Gloria.Cernivivo@utoronto.ca Gloria.cernivivo@utoronto.ca] The UofT application system can accommodate up to five attachments (10MB) per candidate profile; please combine attachments into one or two files in PDF/MS Word format. Submission guidelines can be found at: http://uoft.me/how-to-apply.

Closing date for applications is January 13, 2014.

Updates:


 * This position is being conducted only because of visa issues. They are forced to run a search but intend to rehire the current VAP!
 * If this is the case, it is even more obscene to ask for letters of reccomandation to be hand signed, scanned, and then emailed.

Wesleyan University (CT) - Adjunct Instructor/Assistant Professor (Multiple Year)
Beginning July 1, 2014, Adjunct Assistant Professor (with Ph.D.) or Adjunct Instructor (with M.A.) to teach Italian language courses and coordinate the Italian language program. We are particularly interested in applicants with training in second-language acquisition. Requirements: native/near-native fluency in Italian, pertinent and substantial language-teaching experience and demonstrated commitment to pedagogy, as well as expertise and strong interest in the use of multimedia in language teaching. Duties: 5 courses per year; develop and supervise the Italian language curriculum; coordinate teaching assistants. The successful candidate will work in tandem with the tenured/tenure track faculty in order to promote the Italian Studies major, and, with other language-teaching adjuncts, to advance the cause of excellent and innovative language instruction within the Wesleyan liberal arts curriculum. Adjunct faculty at Wesleyan are full-time professors of the practice and receive an initial four-year contract, which is followed by a periodic renewal process based on teaching and collegial contributions; adjunct faculty also have the opportunity to apply for periodic sabbaticals and annual funding for pedagogical renewal and research. Submit cover letter, CV, 3 letters of reference, a 2-page statement of teaching philosophy (600 words maximum), and copies of teaching and course evaluations, at:  http://careers.wesleyan.edu/postings/4166. Candidates may be invited to submit additional material, subsequent to our evaluation of the applications. APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL JANUARY 6, WHEN THE LINK WILL CLOSE.

Updates:


 * Any news?
 * Skype interview scheduled (1/23)

UNIVERSITÀ PER STRANIERI DI SIENA - ITALIA
Selezione per titoli per la creazione di una graduatoria dalla quale attingere per l'affidamento di incarichi di collaborazione per la correzione e la valutazione delle prove di esame di Certificazione DITALS di I e di II livello.

http://www.cercolavoronelmondo.com/formazione/item/600-universit%C3%A0-di-siena-selezione-per-soli-titoli-per-la-creazione-di-una-graduatoria

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME - Director of the Center for the Study of Languages and Cultures (CSLC), 3-5 yrs., due 11/4/13

 * link
 * Any news here
 * Also posted at French and Francophone Studies 2013-2014

Word on the street
Perhaps, especially in a time of economic and cultural crisis like the current one, it is advisable to put an end to the practice of summoning a dozen semi-finalists to MLA conventions. In most cases, such a custom is more convenient for institutions and interviewers than for interviewees. Many (if not the majority of) candidates make their living by filling temporary positions, thus--since they may not have access to conference travel funds, and do not always give a lecture in a panel--for many of them interviews held at MLA conventions end up being a waste of money (and time, and energy.) Moreover, how many candidates have already contracted debts to pay for their studies? It would be more ethical and more considerate to always run semi-finals via Skype, and then invite (more) candidates for campus visits. And--since the interview is one stage of the process, and the candidate's entire career should be taken into serious consideration--it would be more honorable if interviews were not conducted at all as cattle-market rituals. In this age of market-oriented academia, when interviewed, candidates are frequently forced to sell themselves by showing off a camoufaged personality because of the need to meet the institutions' expectations of hiring superhuman scholars and teachers, even expected to be skilled enough to revive by themselves programs in trouble. Where is in this the creative and critical thought, and the civic engagement institutions claim to forster in the education they allegedly impart? Where is the consideration for unsuccessful candidates, who only receive predictable standard letters/messages, sometimes months after the MLA convention, invariably stating "The search committee was very pleased to converse with you [...] With every good wishes for your success in your professional endeavors"? Would not more and well-targeted feedback be appropriate, urbane and helpful, instead of a compassionate pat on the shoulder? After all, we--institutions, search committees, and interviewees--are supposed to represent reflective and analytical imagination, not narrow-minded conformism... the Humanities, not the Dishumanities. "Ma se avessi soltanto bestemmiato / allora Brecht ai vostri figli ha gia' lasciato detto / perdonateci a noi per il nostro tempo."

Whoever wrote all of the above: grazie. Per aver detto quello che sentivo e pensavo e non avrei mai saputo esprimere così bene. Ti dispiace, se citando, la condivido sui social network? Penso che la tua riflessione sia utile a tutti.

Grazie ancora.

-- Glad you find my remarks useful. Don't hesitate to share them if you wish.

Absolutely. It was my second year at MLA. Interviewed by big Universities (also ivy league). Last year I did not get to the campus interview and this year I am still waiting for ANY response at all. Last year my interview lasted 54 minutes, I thought it went great. Not only I was not chosen, but from their website, it looks like they did not hire anybody new. I believe they just gave a promotion to an internal lecturer. And I spent money I did not necessarily have to get there and I just got a formal message that said it was great talking to me...

-- Hai ragione tu: meglio parlarsi in italiano; in fondo, siamo italianisti, no?, per quanto abbia preso sempre piu' piede il costume di insegnare l'italianistica in inglese al fine di attrarre studenti come fossero allodole, quasi che l'italiano sia ormai scaduto a una lingua e cultura morte. Puo' succedere poi che si facciano colloqui con membri di commissione che si esprimono in un italiano stentato e un po' miserabile. Capisco e condivido appieno la tua amarezza e il tuo senso di frustrazione. Per quanto il colloquio abbia una sua legittimita' di principio, le sue modalita' e i criteri di valutazione delle commissioni paiono spesso arbitrari e imperscrutabili, seppure i commissari si affidino di frequente a domande scontate. Alla fine, sento ripetere da piu' parti, a valere e' la performarce recitativa dell'esaminando, che in ogni caso, laddove superi o meno la prova, resta all'oscuro di come si sia portato, delle ragioni per le quali sia stato scelto o escluso, e via dicendo, dato che non esistono verbali (anche pubblici, firmati e controfirmati, perche' no?) delle prove sostenute. Non sorprende che parte dei candidati ricorra a stratagemmi alquanto avvilenti, quale quello di rimettersi perfino a prezzolati addestratori di professione per preparare il colloquio. Che poi ha luogo nella piu' assoluta ed esoterica segretezza, certo non al fine di salvaguardare e favorire il rendimento migliore dei candidati: divide et impera. Ecco che i colloqui accademici diventano un riflesso della societa' in cui viviamo. Non scoraggiamoci; pensiamo piuttosto che il meglio verra'. Ti ringrazio della conversazione (tra di noi possiamo dircelo senza tema d'insincerita').

--My advice to everyone is to not try to rationalize why they didn't choose you. If you do, you will only drive yourself mad (today, hiring has little to do with your credentials/experience). Stay focused and be persistent; that's how I landed my current posititon (albeit non-tenure track at the moment but very fortunate to have something)...after three years of applications.

-- It's wise advice to preserve one's mental health, but no consolation under a professional respect. If we don't strive to pursue both rationality and ethics in academia, where else should we look for them? Maybe at a stock market?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mUARXKGhMM

Any word of more to come or do we think this is just a particularly thin year?

'''It is quite thin, but many of the postings are for tenure-track positions. Are things finally moving in the right direction, or is this an anomalous year? '''

- Things are decidely not moving in the right direction. There aren't more TT spots than in the past, about the same number have internal candidates, and--an important indicator-- the 1 and 3 year VAP spots have vanished.

- Dare we ask which TT posts likely have internal candidates?


 * NYU (current VAP)
 * Let's be honest UCLA and Wesleyan both have internal candidates (current VAPs)
 * As to Wesleyan, this is DEFINITELY NOT the case.  I know: I teach at Wesleyan.  An open search is being conducted and we invite all interested and qualified candidates to apply.  There is NO one with an inside track at all on this position. The adjunct position at Wesleyan offers an outstanding opportunity for non-research oriented academics/intellectuals who are strong teachers to participate in shaping an important program in a top liberal arts college.  Do not be distracted by the rumors!
 * So essentially a language coordinator postion disguised as an "assistant professor"?
 * You made me LOL...:-)


 * Possible one at Wiliam & Mary.
 * Alabama has one
 * McGill, amidst its finishing dissertators?
 * Can they hire their own people for tenure track position? I thought this was not typical in America.
 * It's Canada and they typically prefer Canadian citizens.
 * No, they don't, the last 2 hires were from the US.
 * I wrote Canada not McGill.
 * Yes, but in Italian recent hires in a lot of places were from the US, McGill is just an example. University Affairs published an article a year or two ago mentioning that in Canada Canadian Ph.D.s are unfortunately overlooked (the article focused on philosophy departments). It is not good (nor fair) for anyone involved.


 * Does JHU have? -- No, but they have a candidate in mind -- Actually, yes
 * Dartmouth, likely. Their current VAP seems to fit the job description quite well.
 * Guys, the whole internal-candidate-hunting game is a really bad idea because we don't have enough information to do anything but speculate. Most jobs will have an internal for the reason that it's v difficult to convince adminstrations to offer a precious TT line to a small subject like Italian without very solid data on course enrollments. So the courses the new hire will be teaching will have to be offered BEFORE he or she starts the job. Who's going to do that? Probably a VAP. And that person is essentially on a year-long (or multi-year) interview for a job that may still go to someone else. As outsiders, we have no idea how that "interview" is going. It could be going really badly. Several jobs last year (OSU, Colby, Dartmouth) had "internal candidates" who did not get the position. Apply to the jobs you're qualified for and present yourself as best you know how. Speculating will only get you into a downward spiral.


 * I agree with the above post but it's still usefull to have this information.
 * OP again: my point was that it's not information, which is why it's not very useful. I found most of the replies above questionable with a couple of exceptions: UCLA and NYU, plus Dartmouth kinda, but see above. So the thread gives a misleadingly bad impression of what's going on. Moreover it's premised on the idea that internal candidate = doom for everyone else ("Dare we ask..."), which is untrue.
 * I also agree with the above post that it's not only useful but necessary, especially to those who are new to this academic "meat" market where the playing field is not always level.
 * I think it useful data because by looking at current VAPs one can have a better sense of what the committee "might" be looking for. At the same time, one should not collapse internal candidates and Italian "raccomandati."
 * Agreed. And let's not forget that VAPs are hardly enemies, they are part of our job-hunting community—indeed, they're our recent classmates—and co-participants on this wiki. Good for them for their achievement.
 * Yes, in some places that may give them an advantage, but that isn't a new phenomenon, and it's certainly not guaranteed. (See for instance the Villanova job from last year).

- It does not seem a particularly bad year in terms of number. On the contrary, for modern Italian studies, it is better than last year. Hopefully more visiting positions will come out. As far as internal candidates are concerned, I don't have my hopes up for NYU.


 * - [In response to "It does not seem like a particularly bad year"] Wow, I don't mean to pick a fight or anything, but this comment is bonkers.  Since when do FOUR TT jobs in modern (two of which specify cinema and media studies) for all of Canada and the US qualify as "not a bad year"?  It's a terrible year all the way around.  I wouldn't bother taking this comment to task, but I think it's important for us --emerging scholars in the field -- to keep the drum beating about how terrible our job prospects are so that the discipline as a whole will be forced to confront just how much in crisis Italian Studies is, especially in the US.  You shouldn't ever find yourself speaking to, say, a tenured professor in your department and saying, "Gee, 2013-4 actually doesn't seem like such a bad year."


 * - Hear, hear! And when the Medieval and especially Renaissance candidates are looking wistfully at those four modern jobs, which seem bountiful in comparison to their meager pickings. Let us also not forget that the applicant pool has escalated, what with the crisis prompting more candidates from abroad and a deep backlog of candidates here. It's a grim state of affairs, and the poster above is absolutely correct that it's important that this fact not be glossed over to the current faculty in our field.


 * - Look, I don't mean to pick a fight either. It just seems to me that 4 TT positions in Modern Italian Studies is much better than what we had for a while. This does not make the job market any less brutal.


 * - Having been in the job market now for the last couple of years and having spoken to dozens of chairpersons during this time, the future of Italian is in serious peril. Today, universites are run like corporations (more so if they are public) and if whatever numbers don't hit their targets, then freezes or cuts will occur (these were the exact words of a Dean of Humanities) and in extreme cases, the merger of departments. So what to do? -Good point!

-Does anybody else think it is useless to apply to UK jobs?
 * I am not sure. Someone with a US degree got the Reading job from last year. Durham's school of languages is holding a reception at MLA, so it seems they are serious in their translatantic rectuiting efforts.
 * No since US PhDs have much more teaching experince and access to potential US funding.
 * I wouldn't pin your hopes on teaching experience to get you a job in the UK. Things are changing a little with the increased tuition fees for students but research research research remains the name of the game because of the regular government research assessment exercises. You'll need several articles already in print and a book that's very close to completion if not actually out in print.

-What about updating this wiki? is everybody afraid of sharing info? come on, guys!