Opportunity for The Paris Review Visiting Professor of Literature at the Bard Prison Initiative (BPI)

About the Opportunity
The Paris Review, in partnership with the Bard Prison Initiative (BPI), invites applications for The Paris Review Visiting Professorship of Literature. This is a one- or two-year position beginning in September 2026, designed for a distinguished writer to join Bard College and teach literature courses to students pursuing undergraduate degrees while incarcerated. The professor may also teach at BPI’s microcolleges in New York City.

Eligibility and Qualifications

Emerging or established writer of fiction, poetry, plays, or literary nonfiction with recognized critical acclaim.
Must have published at least one (preferably two or more) books.
Prior college-level teaching experience is required.
Candidates should be skilled in designing engaging, literature-focused courses that foster student participation.
The position requires clearance from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.

Roles and Responsibilities

Design and teach three courses (fall and spring semesters) focusing on the study of literature.
Deliver a public lecture at one or more BPI locations, which may later be presented in The Paris Review (print or online).
Contribute to Bard’s liberal arts curriculum through rigorous and inclusive teaching.

Compensation and Benefits