The Department of Modern Languages and Literatures at Swarthmore College invites applications for a part-time Lecturer of Russian (7/8th). The position will start in August 2026. This is a non-tenure track, ⅞ time position; the initial appointment is for one year with an opportunity for multi-year renewal contingent upon a successful review. Responsibilities include the teaching/co-teaching of Russian at all levels and participation in Russian Section meetings and activities. In addition to teaching courses in our main two-year language track, there will be opportunities for teaching more advanced courses such as Russian Conversation, Introduction to Russian Culture (in Russian), and courses on topics of interest to students and the Lecturer.

The Russian program is a vibrant component of the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, offering students two years of rigorous Russian language instruction, courses in Russian literature, folklore, and culture, with numerous co-curricular study opportunities.

Located in the suburbs of Philadelphia and near Wilmington DE, Swarthmore College is a highly selective liberal arts college whose mission combines academic rigor with social responsibility. Swarthmore has a strong institutional commitment to diversity, and actively seeks and welcomes applications from candidates with exceptional qualifications, particularly those with demonstrable commitments to a more inclusive society and world. Applicants from traditionally underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information on Faculty Diversity and Excellence at Swarthmore, see http://www.swarthmore.edu/faculty-diversity-excellence/information-candidates-new-faculty

Candidates should possess an MA (or PhD) in Russian language pedagogy and culture or in a closely related field. Successful candidates will have a proven record of excellence in teaching Russian at the College level in the USA or Canada. We seek an effective pedagogue capable of working with a diverse student body.

Candidates must be able both to teach autonomously and to work with a co-teacher; flexibility and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues is essential. The search committee will give preference to candidates familiar with current second language acquisition methodologies and able to use technology in language instruction effectively.  Superior proficiency in both English and Russian is expected.

Please send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, graduate transcript, three recent letters of reference, and a statement of teaching philosophy detailing language teaching experience. Apply via Interfolio: apply.interfolio.com/181042.

Questions may be directed to Professor Sibelan Forrester, search chair, sforres1@swarthmore.edu.

All applications received by February 23, 2026, will receive full consideration, and review of applications will continue until the position is filled

Swarthmore has a strong institutional commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity. We welcome applications from all candidates with exceptional qualifications, particularly those with demonstrable commitments to working effectively supporting, teaching, and engaging a highly diverse student body.

About Swarthmore College

Since its founding in 1864, Swarthmore College has given students the knowledge, insight, skills, and experience to become leaders for the common good. Offering a liberal arts and engineering curriculum, the College is private, yet open to all regardless of financial need. It is also decidedly global in outlook, drawing students from around the world and all 50 states. The diversity of perspectives represented by Swarthmore students, faculty, and staff - including different viewpoints, identities, and histories - contributes to the community's strong sense of open dialogue and engagement with ideas and issues.

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