Title: Director of African American Studies/Sociology Faculty Position

Application Review Date: 11/01/2025

Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus

Work Authorization: Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor employment visas at this time.

Job Description

The Department of Sociology at Radford University, a regional comprehensive university in the picturesque Blue Ridge and New River Valley regions of Southwest Virginia, seeks applications for a nine-month tenure-track position beginning in Fall 2026. We are seeking a teacher/scholar with expertise and training in African American Studies who can contribute to our program. Our department of dedicated teacher-scholars includes a major and minor in Sociology and a growing and dynamic minor in African American Studies. The successful candidate will be named the Director of African American Studies and will have the opportunity to grow the program through high-impact teaching, mentorship, and programming through the Black Studies Center.

Required Qualifications

PhD in Sociology, African American Studies, or closely related field; demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring undergraduate students; a record of scholarship or demonstrated potential for developing a productive program of scholarship. ABD candidates will be considered with confirmation of a graduation date. Rank and tenure status is negotiable.

Preferred Qualifications:

Ability to contribute to undergraduate research through the Center for Social and Cultural Research, and experience in one or more of the following: applied sociological products, online courses, supervising undergraduate internships, and/or capacity to complement our course offerings in sociology.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants should include (1) a letter of application that explains how they meet the required and preferred qualifications, (2) a current vita, (3) the names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of three references and (4) transcript(s).

Employment Conditions: Radford University is a comprehensive public university of over 7,800 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University serves the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation through a wide range of academic, cultural, human service and research programs. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 211-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 75 bachelor's degree programs in 47 disciplines and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 27 master's programs in 23 disciplines and five doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 21 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master's certificate. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Conference, Radford University competes in 16 men's and women's varsity athletics. With over 200 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development and community service. In addition to robust academic offerings and engaging student experiences on the main campus located in Radford, Virginia, Radford University also offers a clinical-based educational experience for more than 1,000 students living and learning in Roanoke, Virginia as part of Radford University Carilion, a public-private partnership focused on the cutting-edge delivery of health sciences programming, outreach and service.

Is this position Grant Funded: No

Is this position restricted: No

Is this position eligible for telework: No

Hours Per Week: 

Months per Year: 9

Statement of Economic Interest Required: No

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Classification: Teaching & Research Faculty

Normal Work Schedule: 

Employee Classification: 

Department: Sociology, Dept of

Salary: Commensurate with Experience

Department Contact Name: Dr. Joanna Hunter

Department Contact Phone: 540-831-5130

Department Contact Email: jhunter35@radford.edu

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.

Clery Statement

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university’s policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years’ of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department.

Criminal Background Check Statement

Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code § 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.