IFSA Sessional Instructor: Fantasy in the Real World: Literature Through the Sociological Lens,[...]

The Institute for Study Abroad is seeking an instructor to teach a course entitled ‘Fantasy in the Real World: Literature Through the Sociological Lens’ for the IFSA London programme over the upcoming Fall semester. Fantasy literature has great power – but does it also have great responsibility? This course looks at mainstream and fringe fantasy literature from the past century and the power that it has in modern society at large. We will examine its creation, consumption, and its ability to impact the real world.

Using works such as Harry Potter, His Dark Materials, The Lord of the Rings, and The Game of Thrones, as well as lesser-known writings, we will embrace the fantasy genre as a safe space to explore sociological topics that are difficult to clarify in the real world, such as race, gender, class, and political processes. Students will take advantage of our London location, exploring sites important to these works and feature guest speakers who have worked on text adaptations.

Along with teaching the class, the instructor will also be responsible for assessment and marking as well as the design of at least two co-curricular activities such as guest speakers, site visits or other appropriate events designed to expose students to new perspectives and help them integrate, apply, and synthesise key learning. The syllabus for the course has been approved by our School of Record, however minor modifications can be made in agreement with the Academic Programs Manager.

This is a great opportunity for faculty, postdocs, and PhD students. The successful candidate will have a minimum of a master’s degree in a related subject and be at least two years into a PhD. The successful candidate will have experience of teaching and assessment in a UK and/or US higher education setting. Prior experience of working with study abroad students is a plus.

IFSA is committed to the professional development of its faculty, and opportunities for professional development will be made available to the successful candidate.

Semester dates: 2 September 2026 - 17 December 2026. While contracts will initially be offered for the Fall term only, we fully intend for the course to run in both Fall and Spring semesters. Contract renewal will be subject to student demand and instructor performance.

Teaching hours: 3 hours teaching per week over 16 weeks (a fall break is provided). Total 45 contact hours. The course will be delivered across two sessions: Tuesday and Thursday 1:30 - 3:00 PM (the timetable is set, so candidates should be available at these times). Our instructors also provide one office hour per week where they are available to meet students.

Candidates will need to have the right to work as self-employed in the UK, as this post is not eligible for visa sponsorship or PAYE. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their CV and cover letter as soon as possible. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis. For any questions or further information please contact Dr Kate Gafner, Academic Programs Manager.

Essential Criteria

• At least 2 years of work towards a PhD in a relevant subject area
• Experience of teaching at university level
• Understanding of teaching principles in a diverse classroom environment
• Commitment to and experience of fostering active learning
• Familiarity with using Virtual Learning Environments
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Desirable Criteria

• Recognised teaching qualification, e.g. Fellowship of Advance HE or similar
• Experience delivering teaching to US study abroad students
• Familiarity with US assessment and degree program structures