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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Richards Civil War Era Center and the Africana Research Center invite applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in African American History. This position is anticipated to start on July 1, 2024, but applicants seeking a later start date will also be considered.

All research interests spanning the origins of slavery through the Civil Rights movement will receive favorable consideration. Proposals that align with the Richards Center's interests in slavery, abolition, and emancipation, as well as comparative or Atlantic history, are especially welcome.
During their residency, the scholar will primarily perform their research. The scholar will have no teaching or administrative responsibilities. In addition, they will attend workshops, professional development sessions, and other relevant events, and will be expected to take an active part in Penn State's community of researchers.

A Ph.D. in African American History or a related field is required at time of appointment. Applicants who have completed all requirements for the Ph.D. within the previous four academic years are highly preferred.

This is a one-year, term position with a high possibility of renewal for a second year. More information on the benefits offered with this position can be found at https://www.research.psu.edu/opa/benefits .

To be considered for this position, submit a complete application packet including a cover letter describing your research and goals for the scholarship year, a curriculum vitae, and a list of three references online at Penn State’s Job Posting Board . We will request writing samples and letters of recommendation from candidates who advance in the search process.

In addition, successful candidates must either have demonstrated a commitment to building an inclusive, equitable, and diverse campus community, or describe one or more ways they would envision doing so, given the opportunity.

System limitations allow for a total of 5 documents (5mb per document) as part of your application. Please combine materials to meet the 5-document limit.

Review of materials will begin November 10, 2023, and continue until the position has been filled. Please direct questions about the process via e-mail to richardscenter@psu.edu.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 

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Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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