How to Successfully Interview for Academic Jobs

How to Successfully Interview for Academic Jobs Share Share via TwitterShare via FacebookShare via Google PlusShare via LinkedInShare via E-mail Ann BekoffDo the interviewing dynamics change when youre interviewing for a tenure-track position versus a non-tenure track position?Keep in mind that my perspective is from that of a science department at a ResearchUniversity. The answers will differ at different types of institutions and for different fields.Yes. A non-tenure track position is more likely to be a teaching position, so research track record is less important than for a tenure-track position. The interview process is likely to be less grueling and you may be meeting with more non-tenure track rather than tenure-track faculty.When youve been on the hiring end of the process, what kinds of things caused certain applicants to stand out from the others?Quality and impact of the research and publications. Ability to convey their excitement about their own work and explai n it at the appropriate level for each person they talk with. Showing interest in the research of current faculty and graduate students. A seminar talk that really engages the audience and covers notlage only what they did, but why it is interesting and important. Evidence that their work will move the field forward. Asking thoughtful questions about the department- lab space available, teaching expectations, etc- showing that they are trying to see how they will fit in as a member of the department.How much weight do the following items carry on an applicants CVInstructor on record teaching experience.This is important, but can sometimes be covered by other kinds of evidence that will be a good teacher.Dissertation committee members reputations.Can carry substantial weight, as long as the applicant has sufficiently distinguished herself/himself from them in terms of establishing an independent research program.Number of publications and conference presentations.Not just number, qua lity and impact matters. Too few is a problem. Many minor publications is not favorable. Only conference presentations and no publications is a problem.Extracurricular activities (UGGs position, GTP Lead, etc.).Least important of the four for tenure-track positions, though not unimportant. Maybe more important for non-tenure track positions.CategoriesGraduate StudentsTagsCareer Search - Graduate Students