July 2009 Start Date - VAP at Rice U

[anon]

To appear shortly on the ASA Job Bank (below).

As an aside, I am biased, but we are a tight-knit and collegial department and are committed to mentoring/networking this person as well.

VISITING ASSISTANT PROFESSOR or INSTRUCTOR ADVERTISEMENT

The Department of Sociology at Rice University is offering a one-year visiting position as Assistant Professor or (if ABD) as Instructor to begin July 2009. Teaching responsibilities are limited to two undergraduate courses per semester (four total for the academic year). The position includes office space, computer equipment, and medical benefits. There is a rolling deadline, as we will consider applications until the position is filled. Applications should include a curriculum vitae (including a list of references), teaching portfolio (including a summary of teaching evaluations), and a short statement (one page or less) describing the courses you would be interested in teaching while at Rice. ABD and recent doctoral graduates are encouraged to apply. Applicants can learn more about our department by visiting our website at www.ruf.rice.edu/~soci/. Please send the application to: Chair, Visiting Instructor/Assistant Professor Selection Committee, Department of Sociology MS28, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston TX 77005-1892. Questions about the position should be emailed to [e-mail]. Rice University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

[ABDer]

Could someone clarify what a visiting assistant professor is? Is it similar to a postdoc position, where both parties pretty much assume it's short term before launching into a permanent position? Or is it more like a trial position, where the department is trying you on for a year?

[anon]

Usually, a VAP is a one or two-year temporary position. Occasionally, VAPs are hired onto the TT at the school in question -- but usually not. So it is usually more like a postdoc; a launching board to the TT elsewhere (we hope).

A VAP is typically better than adjuncting, because you are paid better and have access to university benefits (usually).