Assistant Professor of Indigenous Studies

University of Alaska Fairbanks

The Department of Indigenous Studies, housed within the Center for Cross-Cultural Studies (CXCS), is seeking a dedicated faculty member to develop and teach courses aligned with our curriculum. This includes utilizing various teaching modalities and maintaining office hours to support student learning. The successful candidate will establish an independent research program that engages undergraduate and graduate students, pursue external funding, and publish in peer-reviewed journals. Participation in service activities, including committee work and professional engagement with the community, is essential.

CXCS operates two unique graduate programs: a master's degree and a Ph.D. program in Indigenous Studies, which is the highest Native Studies degree-granting program in Alaska. Indigenous Studies is an interdisciplinary field that draws from subjects such as education, political science, history, and anthropology. CXCS works diligently to enhance the recognition of Indigenous scholarship across various academic disciplines to best serve our students. The mission of CXCS is to improve educational and professional development opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and to explore cross-cultural and Indigenous education and community development issues.

To thrive in this role, candidates should demonstrate strong teaching skills by developing engaging and inclusive curricula across multiple modalities. A proactive commitment to establishing a research program that involves students, seeks external funding, and contributes to peer-reviewed publications is crucial. Candidates must possess cultural competence, with a deep understanding of Alaska Native peoples, histories, and contemporary issues, as well as a dedication to promoting Indigenous perspectives. Collaboration and service are vital, requiring active participation in committees and community outreach. Effective advising skills are necessary to mentor a diverse student population, particularly focusing on rural, Alaska Native, and Indigenous students. Flexibility in adapting teaching methods, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning will enhance their impact, ensuring success in this role and contributing to the department's growth and influence.

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants for this position must have earned a doctoral degree by August 1, 2025, and have expertise in teaching distance education courses and guiding student research within fields related to Alaska Native and Indigenous Studies. Desired areas of expertise include Indigenous knowledge systems, Indigenous history, cultural studies in the humanities and social sciences, Federal Indian law and policy, Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), traditional ways of supporting community well-being, and comparative studies in the Arctic and Circumpolar regions. Applicants should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the contents of ANCSA and how this legislation has affected Alaska.

Position Details:

This position can be located in the following cities within the State of Alaska: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Wasilla, Palmer, Girdwood, Eagle River, Homer, Seward, Chugiak, Ketchikan, Sitka, Kenai, Soldotna, Angoon. This is a full-time, 9-month, represented faculty position complete with both a competitive salary and https://www.alaska.edu/hr/benefits/support/prospectiveemployees.php. UA provides a generous compensation package that includes retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental and vision care coverage. Salary is commensurate based on education and experience.

The following documents are required as part of a complete application for the position:

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CV

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Cover letter that includes a statement of teaching philosophy

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Unofficial transcript

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A diversity statement: A diversity statement is a one-page document explaining your experiences and commitments to diversity....Three areas that might be included in a diversity statement are 1) your values related to diversity, 2) your experiences working with diverse populations, and 3) your plans related to inclusivity. *upload as Teaching and/or Research Philosophy Statement document in application form

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The names and contact information for three professional references, including previous supervisors.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until a successful candidate is identified. Initial review of applications will begin on February 1, 2025; please confirm your application is submitted no later than 11:55 pm Alaska Standard Time on January 31, 2025 to ensure consideration.