Lecturer

Lecturer: Rice University’s Program in Writing and Communication

The Program in Writing and Communication (PWC) at Rice University invites applications for two full-time, benefits-eligible, non-tenure track lecturer positions. These positions focus on teaching our First-year Writing Intensive Seminars (FWIS), including our developmental writing course (FWIS 100). The initial 12-month, two-year appointment may be followed by renewable three-year contracts, contingent on performance. The appointment may begin as early as June 1, 2027, and the successful candidate must be able to start no later than August 1, 2027.

The individuals hired for these positions will join a team of communication experts in a large and vibrant academic program. Lecturers in the PWC have paths to promotion and leadership opportunities. Additionally, these positions are provided with a fund for conference travel and other types of professional development, and funds are available for one-time relocation expenses.

FWIS courses are a graduation requirement for all Rice matriculates, and students must complete the requirement in the first year. These are content-based courses that present students with a cohesive site of academic inquiry throughout the semester, while incorporating writing instruction and feedback.

Work Authorization:

This position is open only to individuals authorized to work in the U.S. without employer sponsorship, now or in the future. Candidates who require sponsorship are not eligible for consideration.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Teach five credit-bearing writing courses per academic year (15 credit hours).
• Participate in the assessment and placement of incoming students.
• Participate in professional development.
• Participate in PWC governance.

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD or terminal master’s degree (e.g., MFA in creative writing or MA in TESOL/applied linguistics). Degree must be conferred by June 30, 2027.
• Minimum of one year experience teaching first-year writing courses at the college level
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching at the college level
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience teaching developmental writing to first-year university students
• Experience reviewing essays as part of a first-year writing placement process

Application Instructions:

Candidates must submit a cover letter, CV, a writing sample (10-20 pages), and a teaching portfolio. The teaching portfolio will include syllabi for at least two relevant courses they have taught in the past, at least one assignment prompt for each course, and at least two examples of in-class activities for each course. Student evaluations for those specific courses should also be included in the portfolio, as well as any other course evaluations candidates want the search committee to consider. Please do not use Generative AI to produce any of these materials. Candidates also will be asked to provide the names and contact information for two references who will be solicited for letters of recommendation if a candidate advances in the search process.

Applications will start to be reviewed on December 18, 2026, and applications will be accepted until January 15, 2027.

About Rice University and the Program in Writing and Communication:

Rice University is a private R1 university with a strong reputation for excellence in both teaching and research, located in the heart of Houston, Texas' dynamic Museum District and adjacent to the Texas Medical Center. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across eight schools, with a student body of approximately 4,800 undergraduate and 4,000 graduate students. Rice consistently ranks among the top 20 national universities and the top 10 in undergraduate teaching (US News & World Report); the university is committed to a culturally and intellectually diverse community, as well as to supporting work-life balance of its faculty.

The PWC was founded in 2012 and is comprised of the FWIS program, the Center for Academic and Professional Communication, and smaller ESL and Communication-in-the-Disciplines programs. The PWC supports the entire Rice community (undergraduates, graduate students, faculty and staff) in cultivating superior communication skills to contribute effectively to the global exchange of ideas.

Rice University is committed to a culturally and intellectually diverse community and to supporting the work-life balance of its faculty. We seek greater representation of women, scholars of color, people with disabilities, veterans, and others who have historically been underrepresented in academia; to attract international students from a wider range of countries and backgrounds; to accelerate progress in building a faculty and staff who are diverse in background and thought; and an inclusive environment that fosters interaction and understanding within our diverse community. Rice’s diversity extends beyond the borders of its campus; as the fourth-largest city in the USA, Houston, Texas is home to a multiplicity of cultures and languages. It is a cosmopolitan destination with a vibrant economy and world-class performing arts, museums, sports, and dining venues that are all located in close proximity to Rice.

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with commitment to diversity at all levels, and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University (https://www.rice.edu/mission-values#xd_co_f=NzhlYjAxZjUtZDM4Yi00N2VkLTkwODAtYjdkNzE0ZmUwZTA3~)