Instructor in Art History

Department: Instruction

Compensation: $4,000

Job Status: Temporary

FLSA: Exempt

Reports to: Director of Academic Research Programs

Schedule: June 13 - June 26, 2027 in residence at Princeton University

Designation: Associate Faculty, non-benefit eligible

Housing: Room and board provided

Travel: Occasional

ART HISTORY SCHOLARS INSTRUCTOR

Located in the scenic Berkshire-Taconic landscape in the quiet northwest corner of Connecticut, The Hotchkiss School is a community in which faculty and staff members build careers and grow as professionals. We seek to identify, recruit, and develop faculty and staff members who bring a diversity of experiences, perspectives, talents, and backgrounds. Collectively, we are dedicated to supporting the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of nearly 600 students who come from around the country and the world.

In the 2026-2027 school year, our student body includes 33% of students receiving financial aid, 19% international students, and 41% U.S. students of color. Geographically diverse, our students represent 38 states and 34 countries, spanning 6 continents. The School is eager to accept applications from individuals who are excited to support an inclusive and warm learning community for students from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences.

Our Program:

The Art History Scholars Program begins with two weeks of research at the Princeton University Art Museum. The summer program is followed by a year-long course at the Hotchkiss School. Working closely with PUAM curators, students conduct research on materials of their choice in the museum’s extensive collections. In conjunction, students are provided with studio space in which to build their own art portfolio. In the evenings, students gather to discuss their findings, work on shared problems in the history of art, and receive individual mentorship on their research projects. Students in the summer program join a course in their Senior year at Hotchkiss with the goal of producing a substantial final thesis on their summer research as well as a fine arts portfolio.

Position Summary:

The Instructor reports to the Director of the Art History Scholars Program and the Director of Academic Research Programs. The bulk of the Instructor’s work involves assisting the Program Director in mentoring students as they undertake their research projects. This process includes one-on-one instruction for each student as their work evolves. This instruction could pertain to concepts and problems from art history and could involve guiding students through the learning of new skills, approaches, and theories. In addition, the instructor might need to mentor students in research and analytical methodologies, including but not limited to: choosing objects, working with curators, and close looking. In the evenings, the Instructor fosters a collaborative spirit in the course by overseeing group discussions, workshops, discrete art historical lessons, and other forms of joint inquiry. Finally, the Instructor will ideally be able to contribute to the fine arts curriculum and assist students during their time in the studio.

Qualifications:

Candidates must be prepared to mentor students on projects in topics in art history. For this reason, candidates must have an advanced degree or significant background knowledge and expertise in art and/or art history. Candidates should also ideally have experience with primary-source research and be prepared to mentor students through the execution of a sustained, deep, and coherent research project based upon museum and library materials.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

In addition to providing academic mentorship and instruction, the person in this role also manages and mentors a Resident Assistant with a background in art history. The Resident Assistant is expected to help with the program’s implementation under the Instructor’s direction. The Instructor can expect to be on duty—and available to help students with their work—every other night for the program’s duration. Finally, the Instructor is expected to accompany students on field trips, provide supervision for smaller outings, and assist as needed with the general administration of the summer program.

Application Information:

Through the online application process, located at Hotchkiss.org/careers, interested candidates should submit a cover letter that addresses interest in teaching at Hotchkiss with particular focus on the ability and interest in working in an intentionally diverse and inclusive residential community. Applicants should also submit their résumé/CV and contact information for three references. If you are matched to a position additional materials may be requested. The School is committed to building and supporting a diverse community where all feel safe, seen, and supported. Successful applicants will address their ability to contribute to a warm, inclusive, and exciting learning environment.

Additional Information

The essential functions and basic skills have been included. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This position description is subject to change at any time.

The Hotchkiss School is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to basing judgments concerning the employment of individuals upon their qualifications and abilities. The School is firmly committed to equal employment and advancement opportunities for all employees and applicants in all phases of the employment process (including recruitment, hiring, assignment, terms and conditions of employment, compensation, benefits, training, promotion, transfer, discipline and termination).

In accordance with applicable law, the School does not discriminate against any individual based on age, ancestry, color, genetic information, learning disability, marital status, past or present history of mental disability, national origin, physical disability, race, religious creed, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.