Assistant Professor-Tenure System

The Department of Linguistics, Languages and Cultures at Michigan State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Syntax. This is a nine-month, academic year position starting August 16, 2027. Responsibilities include research, teaching, and engagement in institutional and professional service. 

Candidates must have a PhD in Linguistics or expect to have one by the start of the appointment. They should also have a record of high-quality research in generative syntax and a promising trajectory of scholarly engagement. Preference will be given to candidates whose scholarly interests complement or enhance the existing strengths of the Linguistics faculty.  

The candidate should demonstrate the potential or proven ability to be an excellent teacher and mentor to graduate and undergraduate students. They will supervise BA and MA theses and doctoral dissertations. The typical teaching load is two courses per semester. The candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate syntax courses, plus other courses in the Linguistics curriculum that align with the candidate's expertise and program needs. They will also contribute as required to the College of Arts and Letters’ general education program in the Integrated Arts and Humanities.  

This is a union position represented by the Union of Tenure System Faculty (UTSF). The university is working with the union to establish a collective bargaining agreement. 

• A PhD in Linguistics or expect to have one at the time of appointment. 

• A record of high-quality research in generative syntax.  

• Strong potential for research likely to result in top-level publications and national recognition. 

• Potential for excellent instruction and mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate levels. 

• Demonstrated ability and/or potential to provide service to the Department, the University, and the profession, and to work with students and faculty from a variety of backgrounds.