Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill; Elkins Hills (NC); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of English and Comparative Literature at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing with a specialization in teaching and writing fiction. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong record of teaching and mentoring and show leadership potential, particularly in an undergraduate-only program.

The successful candidate will teach a 2-2 load of undergraduate fiction courses at multiple levels, contribute to curricula,

Qualifications

• An MFA (or PhD) in Creative Writing or related degree, plus a minimum of 5 years of experience teaching fiction at the university level, are required.
• Publications: at least 3 critically acclaimed fiction books with a nationally recognized press.

Responsibilities

• Teach a 2-2 undergraduate fiction load across introductory to senior honors courses.
• Contribute to undergraduate and graduate curricula and mentor students.
• Engage in scholarly research and participate in select administrative activities.

Skills

Teaching fiction

Mentoring students

Administrative leadership

Education

MFA or PhD in Creative Writing or related degree

5+ years university-level teaching experience in fiction

Publications: 3 critically acclaimed books

Job description

Posting Information

• Department: English and Comp Literature - 311500
• Posting Open Date: 10/29/2026
• Application Deadline: 12/21/2026
• Open Until Filled: No
• Position Type: Permanent Faculty
• Working Title: Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing
• Appointment Type: Tenured/Tenure Track
• Vacancy ID: FAC0006189
• Full-time/Part-time: Full-Time Permanent
• Hours per week: 40
• FTE: 1
• Position Location: North Carolina, US
• Hiring Range: Dependent on Experience and/or Qualifications
• Proposed Start Date: 01/01/2028

Position Information

The Department of English and Comparative Literature at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is recruiting a Distinguished Professorship of Creative Writing with specialization in teaching and writing fiction. We especially welcome candidates whose work engages a wide aesthetic range and champions under-represented communities, as well as an outstanding record of teaching/mentoring. A potential for leadership is highly desirable, as is an eagerness to nurture the talent of young writers, as we are an undergraduate-only program, and to assist with the myriad activities of our program. Administrative and leadership experience is desirable. The successful candidate's duties will include teaching, research, and service. The candidate should be prepared to teach a 2-2 load of undergraduate fiction courses at the introductory, intermediate, advanced, and senior honors level, as well as one of the many fiction electives we offer. The candidate will also contribute to both undergraduate and graduate curricula; mentor students; participate in select administrative activities; and engage in ongoing scholarly research.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Department of English and Comparative Literature is committed to hiring an exceptional teacher/scholar who brings energy and a fresh perspective to their research, pedagogy, and service. We seek candidates who can contribute to UNC's academic mission as a public institution, especially through commitment to diversity of perspective, intercultural understanding, and engagement with local resources and communities. We encourage candidates to consult our website to learn about the Department's curriculum, values, and mission. Candidates working across disciplines are encouraged to apply. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the flagship institution of a strong state university system comprising 17 campuses across North Carolina; neighbor institutions within 25 miles include Duke University, North Carolina Central University, North Carolina State University, and Meredith College. Chapel Hill is a vibrant college town near the Research Triangle economic hub and 20 minutes from Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

Position Summary

The Department of English and Comparative Literature at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is recruiting a Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing with specialization in teaching and writing fiction. The successful candidate's duties will include teaching, research, and service. The candidate should be prepared to teach a 2-2 load of undergraduate fiction courses at the introductory, intermediate, advanced, and senior honors level, as well as one of the many fiction electives we offer. The candidate will also contribute to both undergraduate and graduate curricula; mentor students; participate in select administrative activities; and engage in ongoing scholarly research.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

An MFA (or PhD) in Creative Writing or related degree, plus a minimum of 5 years of experience teaching fiction at the university level, are required. Applicants should also have published at least 3 critically acclaimed books, primarily fiction, with a nationally recognized press.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

We especially welcome candidates whose work engages a wide aesthetic range and champions under-represented communities, as well as an outstanding record of teaching/mentoring. A potential for leadership is highly desirable, as is an eagerness to nurture the talent of young writers, as we are an undergraduate-only program, and to assist with the myriad activities of our program. Administrative and leadership experience is desirable.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

N/A

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Department Contact Information

Daniel H. Wallace/Distinguished Professor/ Director of Creative Writing

[e-mail]

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost office at (919)-962-1091 or send an email to [e-mail]. Please note: The Executive Vice Chancellor & Provost office will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status. If you have any questions about the job requirements or the hiring department notify the Department Contact.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.