Assistant Professor – Indigenous Cultures and Languages
Trent University invites applications for a tenure track position inThe Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies at the assistant professor level, commencing July 1, 2018, subject to budgetary approval.
The Wenjack School is seeking a candidate who will bring a deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, languages and practices as well as an understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems, methodologies, and epistemologies. Normally this understanding would be gained through close study and work with Elders or traditional persons. Candidates should have a demonstrated fluency in Anishnaabemowin language (Michi Saugig dialect preferred) although other related Indigenous languages will be considered. Women’s Traditional Knowledge holders are especially urged to apply.
The successful candidate will have a demonstrated record of excellence in teaching and in research and/or an active and recognized engagement with Indigenous knowledge. The candidate will be expected to teach at both the undergraduate and graduate levels including PhD and to engage in teaching practices informed by Indigenous pedagogies. The successful candidate will contribute to the delivery of the core curricula within the Wenjack School in the area of Indigenous languages, women’s traditional knowledge and other Indigenous knowledge informed areas.
Long-term ethical engagement with Indigenous communities, organizations, and institutions and evidence of understanding the importance of consensus-building relationships would be an asset. Engagement with Indigenous communities will be demonstrated through strong reference letters and should include a letter of support commenting on Indigenous community engagement, and other supporting documentation.
As a multi-disciplinary school, the Wenjack School brings together knowledge and perspectives from many disciplines to engage in informed and grounded dialogue, discussion and research. Our dialogue is based upon respect and complex understanding. Our research and teaching are grounded in and informed by the traditions of Indigenous Knowledge and the traditions of Western liberal arts and sciences. Our work engages both Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars and scholarship.
Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a teaching portfolio including a statement of teaching philosophy, sample course syllabi, copies of teaching evaluations, and the names of the referees who have been asked to submit letters of reference.Please send applications to tention Dr. David Newhouse, Director of the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies. Please note that applications will only be accepted in PDF format via email.
Applicants should arrange to have four letters of reference, and should include one that speaks directly to Indigenous community engagement, sent directly to the Director of the Chanie Wenjack School via email to with the subject line “Indigenous cultures – your name”.
Review of applications will begin on May 5, 2018. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
For information about the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies, please visit If you have any questions about this position, please contact David Newhouse, Director, Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies at .
Trent University is actively committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus community and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. Trent University offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities in its recruitment processes. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process or require an accessible version of a document/publication, please contact .
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.
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