In addition to applying via careers.umich.edu, please submit the following to Interfolio by September 14, 2026:
https://apply.interfolio.com/189205
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- A statement of current/ future writing plans
- Statement of Teaching Philosophy and experience, not to exceed 2 pages
- A short writing sample (10-20 pages)
- Names/contact information for three (3) references
In their cover letter or teaching statement, applicants are encouraged to address their ability to work effectively with a student body that is diverse across a variety of measures.
The Helen Zell Writers' Program in the Department of English at the University of Michigan invites applications for the Helen Zell Visiting Professor of Creative Writing, a Lecturer III appointment in poetry with a start date of August 25, 2027. This is a non-tenure track position with a university-year appointment (i.e., runs August 25 through May 24 each year). The appointment term is three years, with the potential for renewal for an additional two years.
A typical full-time (100% effort) load for a Lecturer III in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts is three (3) courses per semester, or the equivalent in administrative and/or service duties. Each year, the Helen Zell Visiting Professor will typically be expected to teach one graduate MFA class in poetry, as determined by the MFA Director, and two undergraduate courses, as determined by the Director of Undergraduate Studies. They will also be expected to advise 2-3 MFA theses. In addition to teaching responsibilities, the Helen Zell Visiting Professor will also serve on the MFA applications committee and on occasion invite/host visiting writers for the reading series. Finally, and in accordance with the intent of our donor, the Helen Zell Visiting Professor will be expected to continue working toward completion of a new book during this appointment.
Candidates must hold an MFA or PhD in Creative Writing prior to the start date of the position and have experience in the college-level teaching of poetry. Applicants should be emerging writers (one book of poetry recently published or under contract; candidates may also have a second book under contract) who have achieved distinction in their writing and excellence in their teaching. We are particularly interested in writers with a proven interest in bringing to their teaching, mentoring, and writing critical perspectives reflecting the experiences of groups who have been historically underrepresented or marginalized in higher education.
Further information about the Department of English Language and Literature can be found on our website at lsa.umich.edu/English.
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the Lecturers Employee Organization, AFL-CIO, which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Questions or concerns may be directed to [email protected].
The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
