Steven Fisher Professorship in Creative Writing

The Pennsylvania State University; Struble (PA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Benefits package

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA, invites applications for the Steven Fisher Professorship in Creative Writing (Fiction). This tenure‑track position begins August 2027, with flexibility, and includes onsite teaching and service.

Candidates must hold an MFA or PhD in creative writing or a related field, have publications in prominent venues, and at least one book of fiction in print or under contract. Strong teaching and mentoring are expected.

Qualifications

• Terminal degree (MFA or PhD) in creative writing or related field in hand by start date.
• Record of publications in prominent venues; at least one book of fiction in print or under contract.

Responsibilities

• Teach two courses per semester for undergraduates and BA/MA students.
• Engage in research and service; contribute to department duties; onsite instruction is essential.

Skills

Teaching experience

Creative writing

Scholarly publications

Mentoring students

Education

MFA or PhD in creative writing or related field

Job description

Position specifics

The Department of English at The Pennsylvania State University at University Park, Pennsylvania, USA, invites applications for the Steven Fisher Professorship in Creative Writing. This is a tenure‑track position (Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor) in Creative Writing (Fiction) to begin August 2027, with flexibility. Secondary expertise in Creative Nonfiction is also desirable. Responsibilities include teaching two courses per semester, to both undergraduates and those enrolled in the bachelor/masters (BA/MA) graduate program. The BA/MA program offers an integrated undergraduate/graduate degree in English with a creative writing concentration in poetry or prose. Students complete the program in two years—their senior undergraduate year and an additional M.A. year. Information on the BA/MA program can be found here: https://english.la.psu.edu/graduate-creative-writing/. This position will include resident and online instruction and normal university service. Onsite teaching is an essential function of this job. Candidates for the position must have a terminal degree (MFA or PhD) in creative writing or related field in hand by the starting date. They must also have a record of publications in prominent venues and at least one book of fiction in print or under contract. Candidates for Professor should have an outstanding publication record, a commitment to securing external funding, and a track record of excellence in teaching and mentoring students. Duties will involve a combination of teaching, research, and service, based on the candidate’s qualifications. Candidates for Associate Professor should have a significant publication record, a commitment to securing external funding, and a track record of excellence in teaching and mentoring students. Duties will involve a combination of teaching, research, and service, based on the candidate’s qualifications. Candidates for Assistant Professor should have a promising publication record, a commitment to securing external funding, and a track record in teaching and mentoring students. Duties will involve a combination of teaching, research, and service, based on the candidate’s qualifications. Interested candidates must submit an online application at Penn State’s Job Posting Board and upload a cover letter, curriculum vitae (with a list of names and contact information for three references), and a writing sample of approximately 7,500 words.

Background checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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