Experienced Assistant Professor of Chinese History – Ming/Qing Chinese History with a Focus on Environmental History and/or the History of Science

Introduction to Oberlin College and the Department of History

Oberlin College, a private four-year, highly selective national liberal arts college, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Assistant Professor of Chinese History to join its esteemed Department of History and Program on East Asian Studies. Founded in 1833, Oberlin College has a long history of academic excellence and a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The college is located near Cleveland, Ohio, and is home to an outstanding Conservatory of Music, with approximately 2900 students enrolled across both divisions.

About the Department of History and Program on East Asian Studies

The Department of History at Oberlin College is comprised of scholar-teachers who maintain active research agendas and are committed to innovative teaching. The department is known for mentoring excellent undergraduate research, placing graduates in Ph.D. programs, and encouraging students to bring their historical learning outside the traditional classroom. The Program on East Asian Studies stands out within a liberal arts context for its faculty expertise in all three major regional areas: China, Korea, and Japan. With joint and courtesy appointments in religion, politics, cinema studies, literature, history, art history, and environmental studies, East Asian Studies provides curricular breadth and depth that encourage majors to study both history and culture across the East Asian region.

Job Summary

We are seeking a full-time, tenure-track faculty position in Ming/Qing Chinese History, with a preferred subfield of environmental history and/or the history of science. The successful candidate will be expected to teach a standard teaching load of 4.5 courses per year, including topical lecture and seminar courses in their subfield, as well as a two-semester Chinese History survey course and the History Department's required history methods course. The incumbent will also be expected to engage in sustained scholarly research and participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising and service on committees.

Key Responsibilities

• Teach a standard teaching load of 4.5 courses per year in the general area of Ming/Qing Chinese History
• Teach topical lecture and seminar courses in their subfield, as well as a two-semester Chinese History survey course
• Participate in the regular rotation to teach the History Department's required history methods course
• Engage in sustained scholarly research and publication
• Participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising and service on committees
• Mentor and advise undergraduate students, including those pursuing research projects and honors theses
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the department's curriculum and programs

Essential Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in hand or expected by the first semester of academic year 2024-25
• Demonstrated interest and potential excellence in undergraduate teaching
• Successful teaching experience at the college level is desirable
• Understanding of or experience working with underrepresented and diverse academic populations
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in teaching, research, and service

Preferred Qualifications

• Specialization in environmental history and/or the history of science
• Experience teaching courses in Chinese History, including survey courses and seminars
• Experience mentoring undergraduate research projects and honors theses
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals and/or academic presses
• Experience with digital humanities and/or innovative teaching methods

Skills and Competencies

• Strong teaching and communication skills
• Ability to design and teach courses in Chinese History, including survey courses and seminars
• Ability to mentor and advise undergraduate students, including those pursuing research projects and honors theses
• Strong research and publication skills, with a commitment to producing high-quality scholarship
• Ability to work effectively with colleagues and students from diverse backgrounds
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in teaching, research, and service

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

Oberlin College offers a supportive and collaborative environment for faculty to develop their teaching, research, and service skills. The college provides opportunities for professional development, including workshops, conferences, and funding for research and travel. The Department of History and Program on East Asian Studies also offer a range of resources and support for faculty, including mentorship, research funding, and opportunities for collaboration with colleagues and students.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Oberlin College is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for all students, faculty, and staff. The college values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and seeks to create a community that is welcoming and supportive of all individuals, regardless of their background, identity, or perspective. The Department of History and Program on East Asian Studies are dedicated to fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and open communication, and to creating a positive and inclusive work environment for all faculty and staff.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

Oberlin College offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement savings, and paid time off. The college also provides a range of perks and benefits, including access to campus facilities, including the library, gym, and dining hall, as well as opportunities for professional development and travel.

Conclusion

If you are a highly motivated and experienced Assistant Professor of Chinese History, with a passion for teaching, research, and service, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Oberlin College is a unique and special place, with a strong commitment to academic excellence, diversity, equity, and inclusion. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how you can contribute to our community of scholar-teachers and students.

Apply now to join our team of dedicated and passionate faculty, and to become a part of the Oberlin College community. We are excited to hear from you and look forward to reviewing your application.