Visiting Scholars

The Feminist Studies Department typically hosts two or three visiting scholars per academic year, and welcomes the opportunity to connect with scholars in related fields from other institutions and around the world.  These positions are unpaid, so interested parties should secure outside funding for the appointment.  The Feminist Studies Department will write letters of confirmation to support funding applications, as needed.

Visiting Scholar appointments are approved at the discretion of the Humanities Division Dean, at the recommendation of the Department.  Unfortunately, the Feminist Studies Department cannot support all requests.  Higher priority will be given to requests that involve significant scholarly contribution to the department.  For consideration, prospective visiting scholars should follow the instructions below.

Timeline and Deadline:

Interested parties should plan to apply well in advance, at least 6 months prior to the anticipated visit date for international applicants, and 4 months in advance for U.S. citizens.  The differences in timeline are due to the visa application process for international scholars.

Applications for the following academic year, starting in September or October, should be submitted by March 31 or earlier. 

Required Materials for Application:

• Cover Letter (1-2 pages)
  • Identify proposed dates of visit
  • Describe funding
  • Describe reason for applying to UCSC FMST
  • Include any possible contributions to the department or division during the stay
• CV
• Research Agenda/Proposal
• Writing Sample (20 pages maximum)

Instructions

Email the materials to the faculty member with whom you wish to work (the faculty host), and cc the Department Manager (Laura Wilson: latawils@ucsc.edu).  If the faculty host is supportive of your application, he/she/they will forward your materials to the Department Chair, who will bring the dossier to the department for a vote. 

Required Materials for Appointment:

Should you be selected as a visiting scholar, the department will contact you for further documentation.  International scholars must provide a:

• Request for DS-2019
• Financial Certification Letter (if not funded by UCSC)
• Valid Passport for a J1 and each J2

Visiting Scholar Benefits

The Feminist Studies Department only employs visiting scholars as a courtesy appointment without salary.  The courtesy appointment provides official recognition of the affiliation, a UCSC email address, and library privileges.  The department will provide access to the Feminist Studies Library and Grad Lounge, a copying account, and mailbox.  The faculty host may provide access to their office, at their discretion.  

Visiting Scholars are expected to participate in department activities, such as academic talks, and are welcome to participate in classes with permission from the instructor.  Visiting scholars are also encouraged to give an academic talk or workshop during their visit.