The Aydelotte Foundation at Swarthmore College invites applications for a one year postdoctoral teaching position beginning fall semester of 2025 with the option to renew for a second year.  We seek a critical technology studies scholar in the humanities or social sciences to teach one course each semester and to work with Aydelotte Foundation staff in convening and programming the 2025-2026 faculty/staff interdisciplinary research seminar, "Just Tech: Accessible, Sustainable Futures," and related Foundation activities. The successful candidate will also be affiliated with the Department of Film and Media Studies, or another academic unit connected to their background. The candidate will be mentored by Aydelotte Foundation Faculty Director and Senior Associate Director and will be granted ample time and resources to focus on their scholarly work.

We are interested in a range of approaches and issues in digital media and technology studies that combine cultural, computational and design methods, such as AI and algorithmic accountability, critical and creative data studies, infrastructure studies, generative aesthetics, and platform cooperatives.

"Just Tech: Accessible, Sustainable Futures" is an Aydelotte Foundation faculty/staff seminar. The seminar meets regularly throughout the academic year and is composed of approximately 6 faculty and staff from the College, who undergo a competitive selection process. The seminar will be launched in collaboration with an external senior fellow and led in Spring 2026 by Timothy Burke, Professor of History. Seminar meetings involve the discussion of readings decided upon by seminar participants, presentation of and feedback on works-in-progress, and the organization of events and other programming at the College related to the annual theme. The topic for 2025-26 asks, how are nonprofits, grassroots organizations, artists, and activists coding, designing, and advocating for transparency, accessibility, and creativity in technology? Seminar participants will both analyze the existing political economy of tech and explore and imagine alternatives.

The Aydelotte Foundation is an interdisciplinary research center and intellectual community located at Swarthmore College. It supports the creation and dissemination of knowledge about liberal arts education as it exists across the broadest possible range of contexts and institutions.

Swarthmore is a highly selective liberal arts college located just 11 miles outside of Philadelphia, whose mission combines academic rigor with social responsibility. The College offers a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation package.

Swarthmore has a strong commitment to inclusive excellence through diversity in its educational program and employment practices. Information for Faculty Candidates.

Candidates should have their PhD in Media Studies, Science and Technology Studies, or a related discipline by August 2025. The strongest candidates will be expected to demonstrate a commitment to creative teaching and an active research program that speaks to and motivates undergraduates from diverse backgrounds.

Applicants should submit a brief cover letter addressing their research interests, teaching experience, and commitment to diversity; a curriculum vitae; and names of three recommenders, at least one of whom can speak to your teaching, with contact information. Recommendation letters and writing samples will be requested for candidates selected for first-round interviews. Apply at: apply.interfolio.com/165877

Applicants with questions are encouraged to contact Professor Patricia White, Aydelotte Foundation Director: pwhite1@swarthmore.edu.

Review of applications will begin on April 22, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled.

Swarthmore College actively seeks and welcomes applications from candidates with exceptional qualifications, particularly those with demonstrable commitments to a more inclusive society and world. Swarthmore College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

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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