Postdoctoral Research Associate - Program in African Studies

Position Description:

The Program in African Studies (PAS) at Princeton University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate or more senior research positions for the 2026-2027 academic year. Up to two appointments will be offered to exceptional recent PhDs in the humanities, social sciences, interdisciplinary environmental science or engineering, with a focus on African thought, art, media, activism, conservation, economics, urban and rural communities, post-colonialism, and other research related to the African continent and its diaspora.

The term of appointment is based on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments. The appointment will be made through the Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies (PIIRS). Applicants must demonstrate outstanding scholarly achievement and excellence in teaching. These positions are open only to scholars who currently do not hold a tenure-track or permanent academic position.

Responsibilities include teaching (one semester-long course per year) and active collaboration in research, discussions, and scholarly events within PAS and PIIRS. In addition, the successful candidate may have the opportunity to advise students in their area of expertise or related areas. When teaching, the successful candidate will carry a secondary teaching rank. Any teaching role is contingent on sufficient course enrollment and prior approval from the Office of the Dean of the Faculty.

In addition to salary and benefits, the program will provide a research fund in the amount of $3,000 per year and a shared office space. Anticipated position start date is 9/1/2026.

Applicants must apply online. The following application items are required and should be uploaded by the applicant:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Dissertation abstract
• Writing sample: one chapter of the dissertation or one published article related to the dissertation topic - 30 pages max with citations.
• Research proposal
• Two course proposals
• Details of prior courses taught and evaluation results if available
• Document confirming your completion of all requirements for the PhD degree
• Names and email addresses for three references. References will be contacted only for those who advance to the short list of candidates.

For fullest consideration applicants should apply by December 15, 2025 11:59 (EST). Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only final candidates will be contacted. Further information about The Program in African Studies can be found at: https://afs.princeton.edu.

Questions about the application process for this position may be directed to Fiona Romaine, fromaine@princeton.edu. 

This position is subject to the University's background check policy. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.

Princeton University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. To maximize excellence, we seek talent from all segments of American society and the world, and we take steps to ensure everyone at Princeton can thrive while they are here. That is the sole rationale and purpose of our diversity and inclusion programs, all of which are voluntary and open to all, and which comply with federal and state non-discrimination laws.

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