Mellon Assistant Professor of Modern Japanese History – Vanderbilt University

Faculty Opportunity: Mellon Assistant Professor of Modern Japanese History – Vanderbilt University

• Institution: Vanderbilt University

• Academic Unit / Department: Department of Asian Studies, College of Arts and Science

• Appointment Type: Full-Time, Non-Tenure-Track Faculty

• Academic Rank / Level: Mellon Assistant Professor

• Specialization: Modern Japanese History

• Appointment Duration: 3 Years

• Teaching Load: 2-2

• Salary / Remuneration: Not specified in the official posting

• Location: Nashville, Tennessee, United States

• Open Date: September 21, 2026

• Application Deadline: December 15, 2026

• Expected Start Date: Fall 2027

• Appointment Date for Eligibility: August 16, 2027

Overview of Role

The Department of Asian Studies at Vanderbilt University invites applications for a Mellon Assistant Professor in Modern Japanese History.

This is a three-year, non-tenure-track appointment focused on modern Japan from the 19th through 21st centuries, particularly within regional and global frameworks.

Research & Teaching Focus

Candidates may work in areas such as:

• Colonialism and Empire

• Scientific Exchange

• Technological Exchange

• Cultural Exchange

• Immigration

• Diaspora

• Modern Japanese History in regional or global context

The successful candidate should be able to teach:

• Introductory surveys of Premodern Japan

• Introductory surveys of Modern Japan

• Advanced thematic courses in areas of specialization

• Courses supporting the Arts & Science Core curriculum

Key Responsibilities

• Teach a 2-2 course load.

• Offer introductory and advanced courses in Japanese History.

• Advise students.

• Support departmental and program extracurricular activities.

• Contribute to academic programming.

• Participate in other assigned departmental responsibilities.

Qualifications & Candidate Profile

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in:

  • Asian Studies

  • History

  • Related field

• All Ph.D. requirements must be completed by August 1, 2027.

• Ph.D. must have been completed no more than four years before the August 16, 2027 appointment date.

• Evidence of effective teaching is essential.

Application Checklist

Applicants should submit:

1. Letter of Application

2. Curriculum Vitae

3. Writing Sample – article or chapter

4. Three Confidential Letters of Recommendation

5. Teaching Dossier, including:

   • Teaching Statement

   • Student Evaluations

   • Two Sample Syllabi

Application Process

• Application Link: https://dossier.interfolio.com/apply/193520

• Application Deadline: December 15, 2026

• Contact: ben.tran@vanderbilt.edu