At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research and teach courses in Arab Studies while fostering community partnerships.
- Company: University of Ottawa, a top bilingual institution with a vibrant academic culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, extensive benefits, and support for research initiatives.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make an impact in Arab Studies and engage with diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. in Arab Studies or related field, with teaching and research experience.
The predicted salary is between 99377 - 99377 $ per year.
The Department of Modern Languages and Literatures at the University of Ottawa invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor or Associate Professor position in Arab Studies. We seek a dynamic researcher whose work advances critical, interdisciplinary approaches to research questions in the Arabic-speaking world. The ideal candidate will contribute to existing expertise at the University of Ottawa by undertaking research initiatives that examine contemporary cultural questions and social issues in regions of the Arabic-speaking world, and they will have experience in the field of Arabic as a Foreign Language (AFL).
The candidate selected will also be considered for appointment to hold a Faculty of Arts Research Fellowship; the intent of the Fellowship is to encourage interdisciplinary research and international collaborations regarding cultural dynamics and social change in Arab societies, as well as among Arab-Canadian communities. This role may include developing partnerships, organizing seminars, supporting research initiatives, and fostering connections with academic, diplomatic, and community partners in Canada and abroad.
The anticipated start date for this position is July 1st, 2027. The rank is commensurate with experience.
Areas of Expertise
- Arts, Media, and Digital Cultures: Interdisciplinary study of classical and contemporary Arab cultural production across the Middle East and North Africa, including the use of computational methods to examine language, texts and culture, in a context of postcolonial realities and geopolitical change.
- Arab World, Migration, Diaspora, and Transnational Studies: Forced and voluntary displacement, border-crossing narratives, and global Arab identity networks.
- Middle East Studies: Broad contextual knowledge of the region’s historical, geopolitical, linguistic, and socio-demographic complexities.
- Comparative Studies: Ability to place Arab societies and cultural production in conversation with global, transregional, or Western artistic movements.
- Imperialism, Colonialism, and Development: Critical frameworks evaluating power dynamics, postcolonial realities, and geopolitical shifts.
- Social change in Arab societies: Intersectional approaches that examine the dynamics of social change with respect to gender, identity, demographics, and the family in contemporary societies.
Responsibilities
- Active research and knowledge mobilization program.
- Teaching.
- Recruitment and supervision of graduate students.
- Service to the community.
- Develop research projects in Arab Studies.
- Leadership in the development of a transdisciplinary Arab Studies research initiative across the University.
- Coordinate the Department’s Arabic Language and Culture section.
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Arab Studies in both French and English.
- Recruit and train graduate students.
Salary
The starting salary for assistant professors is set at $99,377 and at $109,776 for Associate professors (as per the salary scale outlined by the University of Ottawa Faculty Association effective May 1st, 2025). Consideration for other ranks may occur under exceptional conditions.
Benefits
The University of Ottawa provides an extensive benefits package, which includes long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, supplementary health benefits, a pension plan, optional life insurance, and reimbursement for relocation expenses.
Qualifications
- Education: Possess a doctorate (Ph.D.) by July 1st, 2027, in Arab Studies, with demonstrated expertise in AFL pedagogy, Arabic and Comparative Literature, Middle East Studies, Arab Media/Cultural Studies, or a related discipline.
- Linguistic Fluency: Excellent communication skills in English and/or French. Active knowledge of Canada’s two official languages (French and English) is a requirement for tenure. Native or near-native fluency in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA).
- Research Track Record: A demonstrated track record of research excellence, including peer-reviewed publications.
- Pedagogy: Demonstrated excellence or strong potential for teaching excellence in Arab Studies or related discipline.
Application Deadline
Applications received by November 9, 2026 will be fully considered; however, the position will remain open until it is filled.
The University of Ottawa is committed to providing its academic community with a leadership and learning environment that promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion. As such, we strongly encourage applications from Indigenous peoples of Canada, visible minorities, individuals with disabilities, women, and all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to engage constructively with communities that embrace equity, diversity and inclusion.
Assistant Professor or Associate Professor in Arab Studies in Ottawa employer: University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that prioritizes diversity and equity. As a part-time professor in the Faculty of Education, you will have the opportunity to engage with motivated students while contributing to innovative research and teaching practices. The university fosters professional growth through collaborative initiatives and provides a supportive atmosphere that values creativity and respect.
