Underrepresented Minority Dissertation Fellowship (Walker Library)

Middle Tennessee State University announces the availability of a dissertation fellowship. The purpose of the University’s fellowship program is to enhance diversity in research, teaching, and service at MTSU through the recruitment of underrepresented minority students from across the country who are completing dissertation research.

Responsibilities:

The Library Fellow will provide service in the award winning James E. Walker Library within an area related to his or her academic preparation and the needs of the Library. The Fellow will be expected to devote significant time to the completion of the dissertation. The Library Fellow will also work with a library faculty mentor and will be involved with co-curricular activities including the University’s cultural diversity initiatives.

Qualifications:

Excellence in teaching, research/creative activity and service, as pertinent to the Library, is expected.  MTSU seeks candidates committed to using integrative technologies. Proof of U.S. citizenship OR eligibility for U.S. employment will be required prior to employment (Immigration Control Act of 1986). Clery Act crime statistics for MTSU available at http://police.mtsu.edu/crime_statistics or by contacting MTSU Public Safety at 615-898-2424. EO/AA Employer.

Applicants for the Library Fellowship must possess the ALA accredited masters and be dissertation stage doctoral degree candidates studying in a field taught at MTSU. Preference for applicants to the University Fellowship Program will be given to persons in disciplines in which minorities are traditionally underrepresented, with experience in diverse educational programs and environments, and a willingness to participate in MTSU’s diversity initiatives.

Salary and Benefits:

The Fellow will receive a one-year faculty appointment and will be eligible for benefits including health insurance. Salary is $30,000. The Fellow must be eligible for employment. Additionally, the Fellow will receive support for research, professional travel, and other related expenses. It is expected that the Fellow will not be employed outside of the University or receive additional fellowships or awards during the fellowship period unless approved by the University.

Application Procedure:

Excellence in teaching, research/creative activity and service, as pertinent to the Library, is expected.  MTSU seeks candidates committed to using integrative technologies. Proof of U.S. citizenship OR eligibility for U.S. employment will be required prior to employment (Immigration Control Act of 1986). Clery Act crime statistics for MTSU available at http://police.mtsu.edu/crime_statistics or by contacting MTSU Public Safety at 615-898-2424. EO/AA Employer.

Applicants for the Library Fellowship must possess the ALA accredited masters and be dissertation stage doctoral degree candidates studying in a field taught at MTSU. Preference for applicants to the University Fellowship Program will be given to persons in disciplines in which minorities are traditionally underrepresented, with experience in diverse educational programs and environments, and a willingness to participate in MTSU’s diversity initiatives.

Applicants should apply Online with the following materials:

  • An online application
  • A cover letter
  • A vitae (showing experience/understanding of diversity issues in higher education)
  • A proposed plan for completion of dissertation with a two-page abstract and a proposed timeline for completion showing milestones.

Applicants should also submit the following hard copy materials to: Underrepresented Minority Dissertation Fellowship (Walker Library), Office of Academic Affairs, Cope Administration Building, Rm. 111, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN  37132.

  • Official transcripts (not issued to student) of all college degrees
  • Verification of doctoral candidacy
  • Three letters of recommendation (one must be from the dissertation adviser)

Environment:

Middle Tennessee State University is a dynamic institution with 24,000 students located 30 miles southeast of Nashville. The University has a commitment to diversity, valuing excellent teaching and fostering initiatives in research and public service.  The university library lies at the heart of the MTSU educational experience.  Murfreesboro offers a rich cultural and recreational life and easy access to a variety of attractions within the state and region. Clery Act crime statistics for MTSU are available. For web-based information about the Library and Murfreesboro, please see:

MTSU, a culturally diverse university, is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educational institution and employer. Women, ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. As a key element of student education and faculty research, the library serves at the forefront of service and fully supports the commitment to a diverse campus environment.

See the Background Statement on Diversity and Excellence.

For more information on the Library Fellowship, contact William Black (wblack@mtsu.edu, 615-898-2772), Professor, James E. Walker Library, Middle Tennessee State University.