Assistant Professor of Social Studies Education

Job Description

The Department of Educator Preparation and Leadership at the University of Missouri – St. Louis (UMSL) seeks an assistant professor in social studies education to begin August 2022. Our department views diversity of all its members and its students as a strength. We welcome colleagues who share our commitment to educational equity as well as social and racial justice. Candidates whose professional background includes demonstrated attention to the concerns of race, ethnicity, multilingualism, social class, gender, and disability are strongly encouraged to apply. We seek applicants who have lived experience and/or track record for supporting students from historically marginalized groups (e.g. BIPOC, immigrant, gender or sexual identity, disability) in higher education. All faculty who join our college are expected to work diligently towards increased development of knowledge, understanding, and skills on issues of ethnicity, race, inequality, justice, collaboration, and respect, with the intent to encompass the broadest definition of diversity. Additional support is available for new faculty that is tailored to their background and professional needs.

As one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse campuses in Missouri, UMSL is committed to maintaining a climate where all students, faculty, staff and visitors can explore their interests, refine their talents and flourish. Inclusive excellence is embedded in our strategic plan which focuses on actions to recruit and retain diverse students and employees and promote activities that encourage civil and constructive discourse, reasoned thought, and sustained dialogue in an environment of inclusion, respect and appreciation. Learn more about what makes UMSL proud https://www.umsl.edu/proud/index.html

Position Summary

We invite candidates for a 9-month, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor. The primary teaching responsibility for this position includes courses in social studies methods for elementary and secondary education at the undergraduate and graduate levels delivered through multiple modalities, including on campus, blended, and asynchronous online. The social studies methods courses are part of the following programs: a) Bachelor’s of Elementary Education and Special Education, b) Bachelor’s of Elementary Education and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, c) Bachelor’s of Middle School Education Social Studies, d) Bachelor’s of Secondary Education Social Studies, and e) Graduate Teacher Certification. Other opportunities include teaching in the Master’s of Curriculum and Instruction, Ed.D. in Educational Practice, and Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning Processes programs.

We are seeking individuals with knowledge of educational research methods whose expertise will complement that of UMSL faculty. Although we are open to a variety of educational research methods and disciplinary orientations, we will give preference to candidates who have scholarly activities related to antiracist and decolonizing education. Preference also will be given to candidates who have taught at the secondary school level and have engaged in grant writing activities (or show promise of external funding) as appropriate. In addition to teaching and research, the position requires university and professional service and community engagement. This position begins August 2022. Doctorate required by the time of appointment.

Major Responsibilities

Teach social studies methods courses (on campus, blended, online) at the graduate and undergraduate levels.
Participate in course stewardship and teacher education program development at the elementary and secondary levels.
Foster a sense of belonging for students from all backgrounds.
Conduct research leading to peer-reviewed publications and presentations.
Provide service to the university, community, and profession.
Contribute to a welcoming and inclusive culture in the department.

Minimum Requirements

Doctorate in social studies education or closely related field
Minimum of three years successful social studies teaching in K-12 or closely related experience
Evidence of a cohesive and relevant research agenda
Demonstrated commitment to equity and social justice, e.g., experience with working effectively with diverse students, families, and communities
Demonstrated superior communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications

Experience related to middle or high school teaching preferred
Experience facilitating professional learning with educators, e.g., for public K-12 schools, with community organizations, through traditional or alternative teacher preparation pathways
Demonstrated successful teaching at the college level
Grant writing experience
Record of peer-reviewed research publications
Applicants MUST apply online at http://www.umsl.jobs and are required to submit a letter of application that details your teaching philosophy and research agenda; resume/curriculum vitae; unofficial graduate transcripts; statement of commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion; one academic writing sample; and names and contact information for three references. The statement of commitment should be one-page (double spaced) and reflect your understanding of, experience with, and ability to contribute to UMSL’s mission of diversity, equity, and inclusion. A single PDF file attached to the application under the section for resume is strongly recommended. Only applications submitted online will be reviewed.

Application Deadline

Applications received by March 21, 2022 will receive priority; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. We invite inquiries from potentially interested candidates to the search committee attn: Dr. Shea Kerkhoff kerkhoffs@umsl.edu.

Other Information

About the University of Missouri-St. Louis

The University of Missouri – St. Louis (UMSL) is an urban research university enrolling over 16,000 students. With a population approaching 3 million people, the St. Louis region is home to a wonderful array of cultural, scientific, educational, and recreational venues. UMSL has immediate availability to museums, libraries, parks, theater and opera companies, symphony orchestras, medical centers, and sporting events. UMSL is an Anchor Institution committed to intentionally applying university assets to strengthen the local community and the St. Louis region. St. Louis was recently named one of the nicest places to live and work in America.

Benefit Eligibility

The University of Missouri - St. Louis offers benefit-eligible employees a wide variety of benefits including: health, dental and vision coverage effective on the first day of employment, retirement, paid time off, tuition assistance for employees and their dependents and employee and dependent life insurance. For more information about our benefits, please visit:

https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

Diversity Commitment

Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy shall not be interpreted in such a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or the recruiting rights of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces or the Department of Homeland Security of the United States of America.

EEO IS THE LAW

To read more about Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) please use the following links:

• EEO is the Law English Version
• EEO is the Law Spanish Version
• EEO is the Law Chinese Version