About UMass Amherst
The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.
Job Description
The Department of English at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor, beginning fall 2026, specializing in 20th- and 21st-century British literature, with an emphasis on literatures of the diaspora.
We are especially interested in applicants whose research and teaching interests place twentieth- and twenty-first century British literature in a global context, including postcolonial and decolonial studies, diaspora and migration studies, settler-colonial studies, and critical ethnic studies. The successful candidate will demonstrate research and teaching interests in the literature of territories affected by Britain's colonial projects; we particularly encourage those with a focus on African Anglophone literature to apply. The teaching load is four courses per year with the expectation that new faculty will eventually supervise graduate research. Ph.D. is required and must be in hand by the time of appointment.
Minimum Requirements
Ph.D. in English or related field by time of appointment, successful research and teaching record, and commitment to participation in an active and energetic department.
Salary Information
The University of Massachusetts Amherst expects to pay within an approximate range between $79,350 and $111,066 for this position. Please note:
- The low-end of the pay range in all faculty searches at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is the minimum salary for the rank included in the collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Massachusetts Society of Professors, UMass Amherst/MTA/NEA.
- The high-end of the pay range reflects an increase above the median of salaries at this rank within the department for faculty who may have multiple years of faculty experience.
- The specific pay for this position will be determined by the University based on consideration of all relevant factors, including faculty rank and required or relevant certifications, when and if it decides to extend an offer of employment.
Application Requirements
Along with the application, please submit a cover letter; curriculum vitae; a 25-page sample of written work (as PDF); and the contact information for one (1) professional reference. In the case of ABD candidates, this reference should provide a statement that speaks to the candidate's degree progress; in the case of degree holders, this reference should speak to the quality of the research profile. Those who reach the Preliminary (Zoom) Interview Stage will be asked to provide two additional reference letters. Candidates who make it to the Preliminary Interview stage will also be asked to provide a personal statement addressing how your work aligns with the University’s values and goals as outlined in the "Strategic Plan – For the Common Good.".
Applicants must apply by the priority deadline of December 1, 2025 to ensure full consideration.
Additional Information:
Salary is commensurate with experience. This position is a 9-month academic year appointment at 100%FTE with full benefits.
For more information on living, working, and learning in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts please visit:
https://www.umass.edu/faculty-development/prospective-faculty
Position is dependent on available funding.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.