Job hunting for academic positions can feel like a maze. The cover letter stands as your first chance to make a good impression on hiring committees. Many qualified candidates miss opportunities because their cover letters fail to highlight their strengths properly.
A strong faculty position cover letter needs to showcase your academic achievements, teaching philosophy, and research goals. This article offers 15 examples to help you craft a letter that gets noticed by university hiring committees.
Sample Cover Letters for Faculty Position
Here are 15 sample cover letters for various faculty positions across different academic disciplines.
1. Assistant Professor of Biology
123 Academic Street
University Town, ST 12345
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: candidate@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Jane Smith
Chair, Biology Department
Great University
456 Campus Drive
College City, ST 67890
Subject: Application for Assistant Professor of Biology Position
Dear Dr. Smith,
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor of Biology position advertised on the Great University website. With a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from East Coast University and three years of postdoctoral research at West Coast Research Institute, my background aligns perfectly with your department’s needs.
My research focuses on cellular regeneration mechanisms, resulting in five peer-reviewed publications in top journals including Cell and Nature. My teaching experience spans undergraduate and graduate courses in general biology, molecular biology, and genetics at Top Research University, where student evaluations consistently rated my courses above 4.8/5.0.
At West Coast Research Institute, I secured $350,000 in grant funding for my work on stem cell differentiation. This research led to a patent application and collaboration with three pharmaceutical companies. My mentorship of four graduate students and six undergraduates resulted in three student-authored publications.
My teaching philosophy centers on active learning and research integration. Students in my classes participate in ongoing research projects, learning biology through authentic scientific practice. This approach has resulted in high student engagement and strong learning outcomes as measured by pre- and post-course assessments.
If selected for this position, I would develop new courses in regenerative biology while contributing to your core curriculum. My research program would complement your department’s strengths while opening new avenues for interdisciplinary collaboration with the medical school.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, teaching approach, and research agenda would contribute to Great University’s mission and the Biology Department’s goals.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Dr. Alex Johnson
2. Associate Professor of Computer Science
456 Tech Boulevard
Innovation City, ST 54321
Phone: (555) 987-6543
Email: techprof@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Robert Chen
Search Committee Chair
Department of Computer Science
Technology University
789 University Avenue
Tech City, ST 09876
Subject: Application for Associate Professor of Computer Science Position
Dear Dr. Chen and Members of the Search Committee,
Your posting for an Associate Professor specializing in artificial intelligence and machine learning caught my attention as it perfectly matches my expertise and career goals. With ten years of experience as an Assistant Professor at Current University and a strong record of research, teaching, and service, I am excited about the possibility of joining your department.
During my time at Current University, I have published 25 peer-reviewed papers in top conferences and journals including ICML, NeurIPS, and IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence. My work on explainable AI algorithms has been cited over 1,200 times and led to two patents. I have successfully secured external funding totaling $1.2 million from NSF, NIH, and industry partners.
My teaching portfolio includes undergraduate and graduate courses in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data structures. I developed a new graduate program in AI applications for healthcare that attracted 45 students in its first year. Student evaluations of my teaching average 4.7/5.0, and I have supervised 8 Ph.D. students to completion, with 5 now in tenure-track positions.
At the department level, I served as Graduate Program Director for three years, during which time applications increased by 40%. I also led a curriculum redesign that better integrated AI concepts throughout our undergraduate program. My professional service includes Associate Editor roles at two journals and program committee service for major conferences.
Technology University’s reputation for interdisciplinary research and your department’s focus on ethical AI applications align perfectly with my research direction. I am particularly interested in the potential for collaboration with your health sciences and social sciences faculties.
Thank you for your consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience and vision could contribute to your department’s continued excellence.
Respectfully,
[Signature]
Dr. Sarah Williams
3. Lecturer in English Literature
789 Literary Lane
Booktown, ST 13579
Phone: (555) 246-8024
Email: litscholar@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Professor James Wilson
English Department Chair
Liberal Arts College
321 Humanities Circle
Academic Village, ST 97531
Subject: Application for Lecturer Position in English Literature
Dear Professor Wilson,
As a recent Ph.D. graduate in English Literature from University of Letters with a specialization in Victorian novels and a passion for undergraduate education, I am thrilled to apply for the Lecturer position advertised on your college website.
My dissertation, “Hidden Voices: Class Consciousness in Lesser-Known Victorian Women Writers,” examined works by authors who have been overlooked in the canon. This research has prepared me to teach both your department’s survey courses and specialized offerings in 19th-century British literature and women’s writing.
During my doctoral studies, I served as a teaching assistant for eight courses ranging from Composition to British Literature surveys. For the past two years, I designed and taught my own courses as an adjunct lecturer, including “Introduction to Literary Analysis” and “Women Writers in the Victorian Era.” Student evaluations praised my enthusiasm, accessibility, and ability to make difficult texts approachable, with an average rating of 4.6/5.0.
Beyond teaching, I organized a successful undergraduate research symposium in our department and mentored fifteen students on their first conference presentations. I also served on the Graduate Student Committee that revised the first-year composition curriculum.
Liberal Arts College’s reputation for excellence in undergraduate teaching and your department’s commitment to exposing students to diverse literary voices match my own educational values. I am particularly drawn to your emphasis on close reading skills and writing instruction across the curriculum.
I have enclosed my curriculum vitae, teaching philosophy, sample syllabi, and student evaluations. I would be happy to provide any additional materials or information that would assist your search committee.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications and teaching approach in person.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Dr. Michael Thompson
4. Assistant Professor of Economics
246 Market Street
Economics Town, ST 24680
Phone: (555) 135-7902
Email: economist@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Lisa Wang
Chair, Economics Department
Business University
987 Commerce Avenue
Finance City, ST 86420
Subject: Application for Assistant Professor of Economics Position
Dear Dr. Wang,
I am writing in response to your advertisement for an Assistant Professor of Economics with a focus on development economics. As a Ph.D. graduate from Economy University with five years of postdoctoral research experience at the Global Development Institute, I offer both strong academic credentials and practical field experience.
My research examines microfinance initiatives in Southeast Asia, combining econometric analysis with qualitative field methods. This work has resulted in six publications in journals including the Journal of Development Economics and World Development. My most recent paper, which analyzed the differential impacts of various microfinance models on women entrepreneurs, received the New Researcher Award from the International Development Association.
At Economy University, I taught undergraduate courses in Principles of Economics and Development Economics, as well as a graduate seminar in Field Research Methods. Student evaluations consistently rated my teaching effectiveness at 4.5/5.0 or higher. As a postdoctoral researcher, I have guest-lectured in various courses and mentored junior researchers on field methods and data analysis.
My research has been supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and the Gates Foundation, totaling $475,000. I have established research partnerships with NGOs in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, creating opportunities for student involvement in international research projects.
Business University’s interdisciplinary approach to economics education and research aligns with my own belief that economic problems require understanding of social, political, and cultural contexts. I am particularly interested in contributing to your Center for Global Economic Development and collaborating with colleagues across departments.
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my research agenda and teaching experience could enhance your department’s offerings and contribute to your university’s mission.
With appreciation,
[Signature]
Dr. David Garcia
5. Professor of Mechanical Engineering
135 Engineering Way
Mechtown, ST 35791
Phone: (555) 864-2097
Email: engineer@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Samuel Jones
Chair, Search Committee
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Technical Institute
753 Science Park
Innovation Hub, ST 15937
Subject: Application for Professor of Mechanical Engineering Position
Dear Dr. Jones and Members of the Search Committee,
With 20 years of experience as a mechanical engineering professor and researcher, I am writing to express my interest in the Professor position within your department. My career spans research, teaching, administration, and industry collaboration, making me well-suited for the senior faculty role described in your announcement.
As a tenured professor at Current Engineering University, I have established a research program in advanced materials for sustainable energy applications that has attracted $4.5 million in funding from NSF, DOE, and industry partners. My lab has produced 75 peer-reviewed publications, five patents, and launched a startup company that now employs 12 engineers. I have supervised 15 Ph.D. students and 28 Master’s students to completion, with many now holding leadership positions in academia and industry.
My teaching experience encompasses the full range of mechanical engineering curriculum, from introductory courses to advanced graduate seminars. I developed a popular course sequence on “Engineering for Sustainability” that has become a model for other programs. My teaching has been recognized with the Outstanding Educator Award from our College of Engineering and consistently positive student evaluations.
In administrative roles, I served as Department Chair for five years, during which time we increased research funding by 35%, improved undergraduate retention rates, and successfully completed ABET accreditation with no deficiencies. I also led a faculty hiring initiative that improved both diversity and research capabilities.
Technical Institute’s focus on linking theoretical research with practical applications and industry partnerships matches my approach to engineering education and research. Your institution’s investment in advanced manufacturing facilities would enable new directions in my research program.
I have included my curriculum vitae, research statement, teaching philosophy, and selected publications. I would be pleased to provide any additional materials that would aid your evaluation.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to the possibility of joining your distinguished faculty.
Respectfully,
[Signature]
Dr. Elizabeth Chen
6. Assistant Professor of Psychology
864 Mind Avenue
Psychville, ST 86420
Phone: (555) 732-9158
Email: psychologist@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Thomas Brown
Psychology Department Chair
Human Sciences University
369 Behavior Boulevard
Mind City, ST 45678
Subject: Application for Assistant Professor of Psychology Position
Dear Dr. Brown,
I am excited to apply for the Assistant Professor position in Clinical Psychology at Human Sciences University. With a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Psychology Institute, clinical licensure, and specialized training in trauma-informed therapeutic approaches, I believe my background makes me an ideal candidate for this role.
My research focuses on developing and testing interventions for trauma survivors from underserved communities. My dissertation study, which adapted evidence-based protocols for use in community health settings, was funded by a $50,000 grant from the American Psychological Association and resulted in three publications in the Journal of Traumatic Stress and Clinical Psychology Review. My current work extends this research to telehealth applications, supported by a $120,000 early career grant.
My clinical experience includes three years as a staff psychologist at Community Mental Health Center, where I provided therapy, supervised graduate students, and developed a group intervention program for trauma survivors. This practical experience informs both my research and teaching, allowing me to connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications.
At Regional College, where I have served as a Visiting Assistant Professor for the past two years, I taught undergraduate courses in Abnormal Psychology and Introduction to Clinical Psychology, as well as graduate seminars in Trauma Treatment and Evidence-Based Therapies. Student evaluations have praised my ability to make complex clinical concepts accessible and my integration of current research into course content.
Human Sciences University’s scientist-practitioner model and commitment to community engagement align perfectly with my professional approach. I am particularly drawn to the possibility of collaborating with your Community Trauma Recovery Center and contributing to your APA-accredited clinical program.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my background and vision could contribute to your department’s mission and growth.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Dr. Rebecca Martinez
7. Associate Professor of History
357 Heritage Road
Pastville, ST 97531
Phone: (555) 159-8264
Email: historian@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Margaret Taylor
Chair, History Department
Heritage University
159 Time Avenue
History Town, ST 13579
Subject: Application for Associate Professor of History Position
Dear Dr. Taylor and Members of the Search Committee,
I am writing to apply for the Associate Professor position in Modern European History advertised on the Heritage University website. As a tenured Associate Professor at Current College with twelve years of teaching experience and a strong publication record, I am excited about the opportunity to join your distinguished department.
My research examines the social and cultural effects of industrialization in 19th-century Britain and France, with particular attention to working-class communities and labor movements. My first book, “Factory Lives: Working Communities in Industrial Britain” (University Press, 2018), received the Historical Society’s Outstanding Monograph Award. My second book, “Across the Channel: Comparative Labor Movements in Britain and France,” is under contract with Academic Press with an expected publication date of early 2026.
My teaching portfolio includes surveys of European history, specialized courses on industrialization and labor history, and graduate seminars on historical methods and comparative history. At Current College, I redesigned the European history curriculum to incorporate more social history and diverse perspectives, resulting in increased enrollments and student engagement. My teaching has been recognized with the College’s Excellence in Teaching Award.
I have supervised six Master’s theses and served on twelve Ph.D. committees. Four of my advisees have gone on to Ph.D. programs at leading universities. At the departmental level, I chaired the Undergraduate Curriculum Committee and served on the Faculty Senate, contributing to a major revision of the general education requirements.
Heritage University’s reputation for combining rigorous scholarship with innovative teaching approaches appeals to me greatly. I am particularly interested in the potential to contribute to your Atlantic World Studies program and to develop courses that connect European history with global contexts.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and how I might contribute to your department’s continued excellence.
With appreciation,
[Signature]
Dr. Benjamin Wilson
8. Clinical Assistant Professor of Nursing
159 Health Street
Caretown, ST 75319
Phone: (555) 426-8013
Email: nurse.educator@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Nancy Rodriguez
Dean, School of Nursing
Healthcare University
426 Wellness Way
Medical City, ST 86420
Subject: Application for Clinical Assistant Professor of Nursing Position
Dear Dr. Rodriguez,
I am pleased to apply for the Clinical Assistant Professor position in the School of Nursing at Healthcare University. With an MSN and DNP from Nursing College, board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, and ten years of clinical experience combined with five years of nursing education experience, I offer a strong blend of practical and academic qualifications.
My clinical background includes work in primary care, community health centers, and most recently, a leadership role at City Hospital where I coordinate care for complex patients. This experience has given me insight into the challenges new nurses face and the skills they need to succeed in today’s healthcare environments. I maintain an active practice one day per week, ensuring my teaching remains grounded in current clinical realities.
For the past five years, I have taught in the BSN program at Regional Nursing School, where I led clinical groups, taught health assessment and community health nursing, and redesigned the clinical simulation program. Student evaluations consistently rate my teaching as “excellent,” with particular praise for my ability to bridge theory and practice. I have also mentored students in quality improvement projects, with three student teams presenting their work at regional nursing conferences.
My DNP project focused on implementing evidence-based practice protocols in primary care settings, resulting in two publications in the Journal of Nursing Education and Clinical Nurse Specialist. I continue to work on quality improvement initiatives and have developed expertise in teaching evidence-based practice methods to nursing students.
Healthcare University’s reputation for excellence in nursing education and your focus on preparing nurses to address health disparities attract me to this position. I am particularly interested in contributing to your simulation program and community health partnerships.
Thank you for considering my application. I would be happy to provide additional information about my teaching approach or clinical background.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Dr. Maria Gonzalez, DNP, FNP-BC
9. Assistant Professor of Chemistry
753 Science Boulevard
Labtown, ST 31415
Phone: (555) 927-1828
Email: chemist@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. William Lee
Chair, Chemistry Department
Science University
314 Research Park
Discovery City, ST 27182
Subject: Application for Assistant Professor of Chemistry Position
Dear Dr. Lee and Members of the Search Committee,
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in Organic Chemistry advertised in the American Chemical Society’s job listings. With a Ph.D. from Chemistry Institute and four years of postdoctoral research at National Laboratory, I have developed the research skills, teaching experience, and professional network needed to establish a successful academic career at Science University.
My research focuses on developing catalytic methods for sustainable organic synthesis, with an emphasis on reducing waste and energy consumption in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. This work has resulted in seven publications in journals including the Journal of the American Chemical Society and Organic Letters, with three as first author and one as corresponding author from my independent work as a postdoctoral fellow. My research has attracted funding from the American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund and a National Science Foundation postdoctoral fellowship.
As a graduate teaching assistant and later as a postdoctoral instructor, I taught organic chemistry lectures and laboratories at all undergraduate levels. I developed a new laboratory curriculum incorporating green chemistry principles, which was adopted department-wide at my postdoctoral institution. Student evaluations consistently rated my teaching above departmental averages, particularly for clarity of explanations and availability to help students.
At National Laboratory, I mentored five undergraduate researchers and two graduate students, all of whom presented their work at regional or national conferences. Three of these students are now pursuing Ph.D. degrees in chemistry, speaking to my ability to nurture the next generation of scientists.
Science University’s investment in sustainable chemistry research and your department’s collaborative atmosphere make it an ideal environment for my research program. If selected, I would establish a research group focused on developing novel catalysts for pharmaceutical synthesis, with potential for collaboration with your medicinal chemistry and materials science faculty.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my research plans and teaching philosophy with your committee.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Dr. Andrew Park
10. Assistant Professor of Social Work
246 Community Lane
Helptown, ST 86753
Phone: (555) 309-1267
Email: socialworker@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Rachel Green
Director, School of Social Work
Community University
852 Service Road
Care City, ST 42673
Subject: Application for Assistant Professor of Social Work Position
Dear Dr. Green and Search Committee Members,
I am applying for the Assistant Professor position in the School of Social Work at Community University. With an MSW and Ph.D. in Social Work from Social Justice University, clinical licensure (LCSW), and experience spanning direct practice, research, and teaching, I am well-prepared to contribute to your program’s excellence in social work education.
My research examines community-based interventions for families experiencing housing instability, with a focus on programs that build on family strengths and community assets. My dissertation study, which evaluated an innovative housing-first program for families, was funded by a dissertation grant from the Society for Social Work Research and resulted in publications in Social Work Research and the Journal of the Society for Social Work and Research.
My practice background includes five years as a family therapist and program coordinator at Urban Family Services, where I worked primarily with families facing housing and economic challenges. This experience grounds my research and teaching in the realities faced by clients and practitioners. I maintain a small private practice to stay connected to direct service work.
For the past three years, I have taught BSW and MSW courses at Regional University, including Practice with Families, Social Policy, and Research Methods. I also supervised MSW students in their field placements, providing guidance on integrating theory and practice. Student feedback has been consistently positive, highlighting my practice examples, clear expectations, and supportive approach to student learning.
Community University’s commitment to social justice and community engagement aligns with my own professional values. I am particularly drawn to your school’s partnerships with local service organizations and the opportunities these present for community-based research and teaching.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background and approach to social work education could contribute to your program’s mission.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Dr. Jennifer Lopez, Ph.D., LCSW
11. Assistant Professor of Marketing
531 Business Plaza
Markettown, ST 24689
Phone: (555) 713-9802
Email: marketer@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Robert Johnson
Chair, Marketing Department
Business School
University of Commerce
975 Trade Avenue
Enterprise City, ST 86420
Subject: Application for Assistant Professor of Marketing Position
Dear Dr. Johnson and Search Committee Members,
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor of Marketing position at the University of Commerce Business School. As a Ph.D. candidate in Marketing at Business University with expected completion in May 2025, along with five years of industry experience as a marketing analyst, I offer a combination of rigorous academic training and practical business insight.
My research focuses on digital marketing analytics, specifically how firms can better analyze consumer behavior across multiple online platforms to create integrated marketing strategies. My dissertation research uses machine learning techniques to analyze social media engagement patterns and their relationship to purchasing behavior. This work has resulted in two publications in the Journal of Marketing Research and the Journal of Interactive Marketing, as well as conference presentations at the American Marketing Association and Marketing Science conferences.
Prior to pursuing my Ph.D., I worked as a marketing analytics specialist at Global Brands Corporation, where I developed campaign performance metrics and consumer segmentation models. This experience informs my research questions and helps me connect theoretical concepts to business applications in the classroom.
During my doctoral program, I taught Marketing Research Methods and Digital Marketing as the instructor of record for four semesters, earning teaching evaluations averaging 4.7/5.0. Students particularly appreciated my integration of real-world cases and hands-on analytics projects. I also co-developed a workshop series on marketing analytics tools that is now a regular offering for MBA students.
The University of Commerce’s reputation for bridging academic research with industry relevance makes it an ideal fit for my career goals. I am particularly interested in contributing to your Center for Digital Marketing and potentially collaborating with your Consumer Behavior Lab.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my research agenda and teaching approach align with your department’s needs and strategic direction.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Jordan Taylor, MBA, Ph.D. (candidate)
12. Professor of Public Health
975 Health Boulevard
Wellnesstown, ST 36912
Phone: (555) 487-2391
Email: healthprof@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Susan Williams
Dean, School of Public Health
Health Sciences University
639 Wellness Way
Prevention City, ST 14703
Subject: Application for Professor of Public Health Position
Dear Dean Williams and Members of the Search Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the Professor position in Epidemiology at the School of Public Health. As a tenured Professor with 18 years of experience at Current Public Health School and a nationally recognized research program in infectious disease epidemiology, I am excited about the possibility of bringing my expertise to your institution.
My research program has focused on modeling disease transmission dynamics and evaluating public health interventions, with particular emphasis on respiratory infections and vaccine-preventable diseases. This work has been continuously funded for 15 years through NIH, CDC, and foundation grants totaling over $8 million. I have published 112 peer-reviewed articles in journals including the New England Journal of Medicine, The Lancet, and the American Journal of Public Health. My COVID-19 modeling work informed state and national policy decisions and was featured in major media outlets.
Throughout my career, I have taught epidemiological methods, infectious disease epidemiology, and public health surveillance at all levels from undergraduate to doctoral. I developed an innovative course on computational methods in epidemiology that has been adapted by several other programs. My teaching has been recognized with the Excellence in Teaching Award from my current institution.
As a mentor, I have supervised 14 Ph.D. students and 26 Master’s students to completion. My mentees have gone on to positions at the CDC, state health departments, major research universities, and global health organizations. I am particularly proud of my record of mentoring students from groups traditionally underrepresented in public health research.
In leadership roles, I have served as Department Chair for six years and as Associate Dean for Research for three years. During these tenures, I led strategic planning processes, developed new research initiatives, and strengthened community partnerships. I also served on the governing council of the American Public Health Association and on NIH study sections.
Health Sciences University’s interdisciplinary approach to public health challenges and your school’s commitment to health equity align with my own professional values. The opportunity to contribute to your newly established Center for Pandemic Preparedness is particularly appealing.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my experience could contribute to your school’s continued growth and impact.
Respectfully,
[Signature]
Dr. Richard Washington, MD, Ph.D.
13. Assistant Professor of Environmental Science
842 Nature Way
Ecotown, ST 27513
Phone: (555) 628-4739
Email: envscientist@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Helen Martinez
Chair, Environmental Science Department
Sustainability University
157 Green Campus
Earth City, ST 63048
Subject: Application for Assistant Professor of Environmental Science Position
Dear Dr. Martinez,
I am applying for the Assistant Professor position in Environmental Science with a focus on climate change adaptation strategies. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Ecology University and three years of postdoctoral research at the Climate Research Center, I combine strong research skills with teaching experience and a commitment to community-engaged scholarship.
My research examines how coastal communities can adapt to sea level rise and increased storm activity, integrating physical science, policy analysis, and community-based participatory methods. This interdisciplinary approach has resulted in publications in journals including Global Environmental Change, Climate Policy, and Ecology and Society. My work has been supported by $275,000 in grants from the National Science Foundation and the Environmental Protection Agency.
During my postdoctoral appointment, I taught Environmental Policy and Climate Science courses, receiving teaching evaluations averaging 4.6/5.0. I designed course projects that engaged students in real-world climate adaptation planning with local communities, resulting in student-authored policy briefs that were presented to local officials. These experiences shaped my teaching philosophy, which emphasizes active learning and civic engagement.
I have mentored eight undergraduate researchers and three Master’s students, all of whom have presented at regional or national conferences. Two of these students received competitive research fellowships, and one was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to continue related research internationally.
Sustainability University’s commitment to environmental justice and your department’s interdisciplinary approach to environmental challenges make it an ideal setting for my work. I am particularly interested in contributing to your Coastal Resilience Initiative and developing new courses that connect climate science with adaptation strategies.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my research and teaching could contribute to your department’s mission of preparing students to address pressing environmental challenges.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Dr. Amanda Nelson
14. Assistant Professor of Philosophy
369 Wisdom Lane
Thoughtville, ST 78902
Phone: (555) 143-9267
Email: philosopher@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dr. Stephen Clark
Chair, Philosophy Department
Wisdom University
852 Reflection Road
Logic City, ST 34761
Subject: Application for Assistant Professor of Philosophy Position
Dear Dr. Clark and Members of the Search Committee,
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in Ethics and Applied Philosophy advertised on the American Philosophical Association job list. Having recently completed my Ph.D. in Philosophy at Thought University with a dissertation on ethical implications of emerging technologies, I am excited about the opportunity to join Wisdom University’s distinguished philosophy faculty.
My research examines ethical frameworks for evaluating technological innovations, with particular focus on artificial intelligence and biotechnology. This work bridges traditional ethical theory with contemporary technological challenges, engaging both philosophical traditions and real-world policy questions. My dissertation, “Moral Agency in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” received the Distinguished Dissertation Award from my university. I have published articles in the Journal of Applied Philosophy, Ethics and Information Technology, and the Journal of Medical Ethics.
My teaching experience includes courses in Introduction to Philosophy, Ethics, Bioethics, and Philosophy of Technology. As sole instructor for six courses and teaching assistant for eight others, I have developed effective approaches for engaging students from diverse backgrounds and majors. Student evaluations consistently rate my teaching above department averages, particularly for creating an inclusive classroom environment and connecting abstract philosophical concepts to students’ lives and current events.
Beyond the classroom, I organized a public lecture series on “Technology and the Human Future” that brought together scholars from philosophy, computer science, and public policy. This experience reinforced my commitment to making philosophical inquiry relevant and accessible to broader audiences.
Wisdom University’s emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches to philosophical questions and your department’s strengths in applied ethics align perfectly with my research and teaching interests. I am particularly drawn to the potential for collaboration with your Science, Technology, and Society Program.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my research, teaching philosophy, and potential contributions to your department.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Dr. Daniel Jackson
15. Clinical Professor of Law
741 Justice Avenue
Lawtown, ST 59273
Phone: (555) 385-9102
Email: lawprofessor@email.edu
April 20, 2025
Dean Patricia Roberts
Law School
Justice University
963 Legal Lane
Court City, ST 84672
Subject: Application for Clinical Professor of Law Position
Dear Dean Roberts and Members of the Search Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the Clinical Professor position directing the Community Economic Development Clinic at Justice University Law School. With a J.D. from Legal University, 15 years of practice experience in community development law, and five years of clinical teaching experience, I am well-prepared to lead this important program.
My legal career has focused on providing transactional legal services to nonprofit organizations, small businesses, and community development corporations in underserved communities. As a partner at Public Interest Law Group, I supervised teams representing clients in entity formation, contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, and financing arrangements. This work has given me extensive experience in the substantive areas of law covered by your clinic, as well as insights into the challenges facing community-based organizations.
For the past five years, I have directed the Nonprofit Law Clinic at Regional Law School, where I supervise students representing community organizations while teaching the accompanying seminar. Under my leadership, the clinic expanded its client base by 40% and developed new partnerships with the business school and urban planning department. Student evaluations consistently praise the hands-on experience and individualized feedback they receive in my clinic.
My approach to clinical education emphasizes building both practical legal skills and professional identity. Students in my clinic learn to balance zealous advocacy with community-centered lawyering, developing cultural competence and reflective practice habits. I have published articles on clinical pedagogy in the Clinical Law Review and presented workshops on teaching transactional skills at clinical conferences.
Justice University Law School’s commitment to social justice and your strong tradition of clinical education make this position particularly appealing. The Community Economic Development Clinic offers an opportunity to combine my practice expertise and teaching experience while making a meaningful impact on both student education and community empowerment.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the chance to discuss my vision for the clinic and how my background would benefit your students and the communities they serve.
Respectfully,
[Signature]
Professor Michelle Washington, J.D.
Wrap-up: Faculty Cover Letters
A strong faculty position cover letter can make the difference between getting an interview and having your application overlooked. The 15 examples above show how to highlight your academic qualifications, teaching experience, and research accomplishments effectively for various disciplines and career stages.
When writing your own faculty cover letter, customize it to match the specific position and institution. Research the department thoroughly and explain why you would be a good fit for their particular needs and culture. Focus on what you can contribute rather than simply listing qualifications.
Follow standard business letter format, keep your letter concise but comprehensive, and have colleagues review it before submission. With careful preparation and attention to detail, your cover letter will help you stand out in a competitive academic job market.