Visiting Assistant Professors and Fellows

A candidate must show promise that, after participation in the Visiting Assistant Professor (VAP) program, he or she will attain a tenure-track position at a prominent research-focused university. The number of available positions varies from year to year. Consideration of candidates usually occurs in the spring and early summer. Appointments to the VAP program are not appointments to a tenure-track position. Any such appointment requires a separate and independent decision by the faculty, the dean, and the University Provost and Board of Trustees.

Candidates should send an application packet including: the title of the position, a statement of their objectives, highlight of their relevant credentials, curriculum vita, current research paper, and two letters of recommendation. All materials should be sent in electronic form to Abby McCullough, Faculty Affairs Coordinator, unless otherwise noted.

Visiting Assistant Professor (VAP)
Functioning similarly to a post-doctoral program, the Visiting Assistant Professor Programs permit scholars to make progress on research and teaching prior to entering a tenure-track position. VAPs join the Northwestern Law faculty on a full-time basis for at least one semester and typically teach one course per semester while receiving research support. Each VAP is expected to present one or more research papers to the faculty in a workshop series. Upon completion of the program VAPs typically enter a entry-level tenure-track position. VAP Placement Statistics (pdf)

All applications must be received by January 29, 2010 with selection decisions made in early May, 2010.

VAP in Taxation
The VAP in Taxation is a two-year position. Applicants must have completed a JD and either an LLM in Taxation and/or substantial practical experience in tax law prior to beginning the program. Applicants with a JD and a PhD in economics, finance, or other related disciplines who have an interest in tax policy are also welcome. Applicants must have a strong interest in engaging in research on tax law and tax policy. The VAP in Taxation will teach two courses in the Law School's Tax Program, which is designed to provide students with both a firm foundation in the principal areas of tax law and deft facility in dealing with complex real-world transactions. The successful VAP candidate will join in the ongoing research of faculty associated with the Tax Program.

To apply for VAP in Taxation positions, submit your curriculum vita electronically to Philip F. Postlewaite, Director of the Tax Program and Professor of Law. All applications must be received by January 29, 2010 with selection decisions made in early May, 2010.

VAP in Negotiations
The VAP in Negotiations is a one-to-two-year position. Applicants must have completed a J.D. and a preferably hold a Ph.D. in a social science discipline prior to beginning the program. Applicants without a Ph.D. who have an established research program in Negotiation, Dispute Resolution, or a related field may also be considered. VAPs will have the opportunity to participate in seminars and workshops. The VAP in Negotiation and Dispute Resolution will teach two courses in the JD curriculum as well as engage in research.

To apply for VAP in Negotiations positions, submit your curriculum vita electronically to Abby McCullough, Faculty Affairs Coordinator. All applications must be received by January 29, 2010 with selection decisions made by May 2010.