The World History Center and Asian Studies Center at the University of Pittsburgh seek applicants for a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in Japan in World history beginning August 1, 2026. Applicants are required to have a Ph.D. in the history of Japan or a related discipline from an accredited university before the appointment begins.  We welcome international applications.

We seek candidates who have an active research agenda in the history of Japan in a global context, in any topic or time period. An interest in public history and/or digital history is desirable but not required. In addition to engaging in their own research, the postdoctoral fellow will actively participate in World History Center activities and intellectual community, give one public lecture about their own research, collaborate with the Director and faculty on current research initiatives, and teach a one-semester course on Japan in world history per year. In order to fully participate in Center activities, the postdoctoral fellow will have to reside in the Pittsburgh area.

Salary and benefits are competitive. Applicants must submit through the University of Pittsburgh Talent Center a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and an article-length writing sample in English. Your application will not be considered complete until all materials are received. The search committee will request letters of reference and a sample syllabus from semi-finalist candidates, who will also be invited for an online interview. Questions can be directed to Vicky Shen at whc@pitt.edu. The deadline for applications is February 15, 2026.

About World History Center - University of Pittsburgh

The World History Center at the University of Pittsburgh was founded by Andrew W. Mellon Professor Dr. Patrick Manning in 2008 to promote critical research and teaching about human communities in motion and the forces that have shaped our global past and present. The center is led by Director Raja Adal and Associate Director Pernille Røge. Reflecting a commitment to interdisciplinary inquiry, the Center's Advisory Board consists of faculty and researchers from various departments and disciplines. Administratively situated within the Department of History , the WHC is funded by the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. While the World History Center does not offer degrees, it supports the educational mission of the History Department and of world historical inquiry across the university through initiatives that include fellowships, pedagogy workshops, and student internships.

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