Visiting Fiction Writer

College of Arts & Sciences, UMSL

The College of Arts & Sciences are currently seeking a Visiting Fiction Writer for the MFA Program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis starting January 13, 2025.

The appointment will be for the Spring 2025 semester.

We are looking for a dedicated and collaborative colleague with demonstrated excellence in teaching at the university level with an appropriate terminal degree (MFA or PHD) and significant literary publications, including at least one novel or full-length collection of stories from a nationally recognized press.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

* Teach two classes in person: a graduate fiction workshop and another class at either the graduate or advanced undergraduate level

* Serve on thesis committees for graduating MFA candidates

* Offer a reading and a community craft workshop at the High Low, the Kranzberg Arts Foundation's literary arts cafe in midtown St. Louis

* Hold office hours and advise students as appropriate

* Attend student and faculty events

* Foster a welcoming and inclusive culture in class, in the MFA program, and in the department

Requirements for the Position

• Terminal degree (MFA or PHD).
• Demonstrated excellence teaching at the university level.
• Significant literary publications, including at least one novel or full-length collection of stories from a nationally recognized press.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Standing and sitting for teaching, class preparation, and meetings; speaking, listening, and interacting with students.
• You will be provided with an office, and desktop computer, internet access, campus email, and access to a printer.

Cognitive Demands of the Position

• Must have the ability to assimilate information, reason well, and to conduct classes in such a way that students are engaged as measured on the student evaluations.
• Must be able to communicate effectively, efficiently, and sensitively with students, peers, staff, and other members of the university community

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. You must provide the following materials:

• A cover letter addressing your interest in the position and how your experience addresses the qualifications listed above. Please also describe how your experiences and expertise align with the UM System Values Statement (below).
• Teaching philosophy statement reflecting your experience with and/or ability to support the success of students from diverse and non-traditional backgrounds.
• Curriculum vitae that includes three professional references (name, institution, title, contact information). Three confidential letters of recommendation.
• Please combine all application materials into a single PDF and upload to the application portal University of Missouri - St. Louis Careers website to apply.
• Finalists may be invited for a campus visit. If you have questions regarding this position, please contact the English Department's Business Support Specialist, Stephen Harvey, Harveysr@umsl.edu or MFA Program Director Shane Seely seelys@umsl.edu .

For full consideration, please submit application by December 6, 2024. The position will remain open until filled. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed via video conference. November 18, 2024 - December 6, 2024

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

This position is not eligible for University benefits. Individuals in non benefit eligible positions may choose to participate in the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan (403b). For information about this plan, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.

To request ADA accommodations, please email the Office of Human Resources at umslhr@umsl.edu.