Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; North Carolina; On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill seeks a Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing with a specialty in teaching and writing fiction. The candidate will teach a 2-2 undergraduate fiction load across levels, contribute to curricula, mentor students, and engage in scholarly research while supporting a vibrant undergraduate program.

We welcome applicants with an expansive artistic range and a record of mentorship.

Qualifications

• MFA (or PhD) in Creative Writing or related degree with at least 5 years of university-level teaching experience in fiction.
• Published at least 3 critically acclaimed books, primarily fiction, with a nationally recognized press.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Teaching fiction

Scholarly research

Education

MFA or PhD in Creative Writing or related degree

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
• Qualifications
• 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.

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.

Department Contact Information

Department Contact Name and Title Daniel H. Wallace/Distinguished Professor/ Director of Creative Writing

Department Contact Telephone or Email [e-mail]

Academic Personnel Office Contact Information

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.