When applying for academic positions, whether for a faculty role, research fellowship, or postdoctoral appointment, the cover letter is your chance to make a compelling first impression. Unlike standard job cover letters, academic cover letters must balance scholarly tone, research detail, and teaching philosophy. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to one that showcases your academic credentials, research focus, and suitability for the institution.
What Is an Academic Cover Letter?
An academic cover letter is a formal letter sent along with a curriculum vitae (CV) when applying for academic positions. It typically accompanies applications for positions like:
- Assistant or Associate Professor
- Postdoctoral Fellow
- Research Scientist
- Lecturer or Adjunct Instructor
- Visiting Scholar
This letter contextualizes your CV, explains your research interests, outlines your teaching philosophy, and aligns your academic work with the department or institution you’re applying to.
Key Elements
A strong academic cover letter should include the following components:
1. Header & Salutation
Start with your contact information and the department’s details. Use a formal salutation, ideally addressing the search committee chair by name.
Example:
Dr. Jane Smith
Chair, Search Committee
Department of History
University of Example
123 Academic Lane
College Town, ST 12345
Dear Dr. Smith,
2. Opening Paragraph
Mention the specific position you are applying for and how you learned about it. Provide a one-sentence summary of your research area or academic background.
3. Research Summary
This is typically the heart of an academic cover letter. Explain your dissertation or current research, key findings, and scholarly contributions. Be specific but concise.
4. Teaching Experience
Describe your teaching background, including courses taught, student levels, and pedagogical approaches. If the position emphasizes teaching, dedicate more space to this section.
5. Fit with the Institution
Demonstrate how your research and teaching align with the department’s goals, existing faculty interests, or university mission. This shows you did your homework.
6. Conclusion & Attachments
Express enthusiasm and gratitude. Mention the attached materials (CV, reference letters, teaching/research statements) and invite further contact.
Tips for Writing a Standout Academic Cover Letter
- Tailor each letter. Don’t use the same letter for every application. Reference the specific department and faculty members.
- Use formal language. Maintain a professional and academic tone throughout.
- Avoid jargon. Be clear and precise without assuming deep familiarity with your field.
- Stay concise. Keep it to 1-2 pages, ideally one.
- Get feedback. Ask mentors or peers to review your letter.
Sample:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Email] | [Phone Number] | [Date]
[Recipient's Name]
[University Name]
[Department]
[University Address]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in the Department of English at University X, as advertised on your careers portal. I am currently completing my PhD in English Literature at ABC University, where my research focuses on 19th-century transatlantic literary networks.
My dissertation, "Circuits of Influence: American and British Women Writers, 1830-1900," explores... [summary of research]. I argue that... [your key contribution]. This research builds on archival work supported by a Mellon Fellowship and has resulted in publications in peer-reviewed journals such as XYZ Quarterly.
In addition to my research, I have taught literature and writing courses for four years, receiving strong student evaluations. My teaching emphasizes critical thinking, diverse perspectives, and active engagement with texts. I would be excited to contribute to your undergraduate curriculum and supervise graduate students.
University X’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and its strength in digital humanities strongly align with my academic interests. I am particularly drawn to the department’s recent collaborations with the School of Information Studies.
Enclosed are my CV, teaching statement, and three letters of recommendation. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience and research would benefit your department.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]Final Thoughts
Writing an effective academic cover letter requires balancing professionalism, scholarly depth, and enthusiasm. It’s more than just a formality—it’s your opportunity to introduce yourself as a thoughtful scholar, teacher, and future colleague. With attention to structure, tone, and fit, you can craft a cover letter that sets you apart in a competitive academic job market.