Education - Assistant Professor (Early Literacy)

The Faculty of Education is seeking a dynamic and innovative new scholar whose academic work demonstrates in-depth knowledge and understanding of the relationship between theoretical knowledge and professional practice to provide high quality preparation of preservice teachers, particularly those focused on the early years of schooling (PreK to grade 3). The individual should be a collaborative colleague for one full-time tenure track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Early Literacy or a related field of study in Education.

Academic duties include (i) teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, including course development and assessment of student work, supervision of undergraduate students in practicum/internship settings and supervision of graduate student research; (ii) research and other original scholarly activities, as well as professional activities that contribute to a larger discourse; and (iii) other contributions to the University and scholarly communities.

Please note that the successful candidate will be expected to physically relocate to Lethbridge, Alberta to support students and actively engage in our university culture; individuals unable to physically relocate will not be considered viable candidates.

Qualifications, Knowledge & Skills
Qualifications include a doctorate in Early Literacy or a related field of study in Education. Applicants who are nearing completion (ABD) of their doctoral degree will be considered. The successful candidate must have the ability and interest to teach courses in these areas and possess the ability to teach in and contribute to the Bachelor of Education in Early Years program, the Bachelor of Education combined and after-degree programs, as well as relevant graduate programming.

The ability to teach online, face-to-face, and blended formats, along with the skill to integrate innovative technology into teaching will be an asset for this position. School-based teaching experience in primary years is preferred. Having school-based teaching experience in Canada is an asset.

Preference will be given to applicants with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Early reading and writing
• Structured literacy
• Foundational word reading skills
• Reading acquisition
• Evidence based reading instruction
• Pedagogies of reading and writing

The University of Lethbridge is committed to creating an inclusive, diverse, and representative workforce that is reflective of the community we serve. The University welcomes all applications from qualified candidates including all employment equity groups of Indigenous people, women, persons with disabilities, racialized individuals and persons of diverse gender and sexual orientation protected under the Alberta Human rights code. In accordance with the Canadian Immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given preference.

About our Faculty
Situated in the heart of Blackfoot territory on its lands and waters, the University of Lethbridge, Iniskim, Faculty of Education, Iinooikaksini, seeks to respectfully honour and work alongside in supporting the advancement of Blackfoot culture, language, and values. Built on an ethic of care, we are committed to act upon principles of fairness, equity, belonging and decoloniality in all our relations. By respectfully modelling diverse approaches to research, teaching and service, we continually strive to enable undergraduate and graduate students to become caring, creative, and critical teachers, counselors, researchers, and leaders. Through innovative, thoughtful, and accessible practices informed by our expertise, we prepare professionals to effectively engage with educational complexities both known and yet to be revealed.

Central to these commitments is endeavouring to be local, national, and international leaders in education, counselling, and research.

About our programs
The Faculty of Education offers three pathways to a highly regarded undergraduate-level bachelor’s degree leading to teacher certification. Information about our undergraduate programming can be found at https://www.ulethbridge.ca/education/undergrad. Our graduate programs in contemporary issues in education and educational leadership offer options for thesis, project and course based. We also offer a Master of Counselling degree and Master of Education in Clinical and Counselling Psychology degree. Details about the Faculty of Education’s graduate programs can be found at https://www.ulethbridge.ca/education/grad. 

About the University of Lethbridge
The University of Lethbridge was established in 1967 with a student population of 638. It has grown to a current population of nearly 9,000 full-time and part-time students, with approximately 766 graduate students and 600 international students from more than 90 countries. Two campuses (Calgary and Lethbridge) and 18 research centres and institutes make up our university community. There are more than 55,000 University of Lethbridge alumni worldwide. The University’s main campus is situated on over 550 acres of traditional Blackfoot territory in west Lethbridge. In the 2024 Maclean’s University Rankings, the University of Lethbridge’s student scholarship support combined with continued excellence in research saw us jump five spots in the primarily undergraduate classification across Canada and number one in Alberta. Student scholarship support saw us leap from 16th to 7th overall in the category. As a testament to the close relationship we have with community partners, our reputation ranking is a solid fourth overall.

About the community of Lethbridge
The City of Lethbridge is known for being Where the Rocky Mountains meet the Prairies. A city since 1906, Lethbridge is a growing community of just over 100,000 residents, that features affordability and vibrant community engagement. Located in southern Alberta, Lethbridge approximately 145 kilometers east of the Canadian Rockies and 95 kilometers north of the United States border. The city's economy has expanded from primarily agriculture into a thriving industrial, commercial, research and technology hub. Lethbridge's major employers are in the education, health care and government sectors. Lethbridge is known for its bright sunshine (more than 320 days per year), warm summers, and mild winters thanks to our semi-arid climate and Chinook winds. The Oldman River divides the north and south sides from the west side. The river valley's coulees are home to one of North America's largest urban park systems. With over 240km of trails, enjoy walks, runs and bike rides throughout the city. Adventure is only a short drive away! Experience hiking, camping, skiing and more just outside Lethbridge. Information about Lethbridge can be found at https://www.ulethbridge.ca/about/about-lethbridge 
Faculty: Faculty of Education
Campus: Lethbridge

Posting Detail Information
Open Date: Open Until Filled
Until the position is filled.

Application Process
All applications must be submitted online, and should include a:

1. a letter of application (2 page max.) outlining their specific experience with and knowledge of the above-described needs
2. a detailed academic curriculum vitae including the names and contact information for three referees
3. a teaching philosophy statement (1 page max.) that clearly articulates the applicant’s commitment to accessibility, belonging and community
4. a research philosophy statement (1 page max.) that includes the applicant’s methodological and theoretical expertise most relevant to this position

To apply, click link: https://uleth.peopleadmin.ca/postings/8714 

Employment Equity
The University acknowledges the potential impact that career interruptions can have on a candidate’s record of achievement. We encourage applicants to explain in their application the impact that career interruptions have had on their record. The University of Lethbridge invites applications from all qualified candidates; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given preference. The University of Lethbridge is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, including through all aspects of the hiring process. If you require support during the hiring process, please contact Human Resources at [email protected]  so that accommodations can be put in place to support you.