UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

POSITION IN ARAB STRATEGIC RELATIONS

The University of Montana seeks a contemporary Arab specialist to develop curriculum and provide instruction for a Defense Critical Language/Culture program funded by the Department of Defense, starting on or about August 1, 2008. The primary initial need is for the development and instruction of intensive short-term “operational culture” courses for members of the US military, in which information on military, strategic and decision-making processes in various regimes in the Middle East are combined with information on the relevant cultures and economic and political systems to give trainees a broad understanding of the region. The successful candidate will help develop similar instruction on-line at various levels of sophistication for primarily military use. Finally, the candidate chosen will perform some university teaching in an area that can contribute to an undergraduate and graduate program in International Relations.

The successful candidate will work on twelve month contracts at a salary which reflects his/her specialized skills and knowledge. The exact salary level will be based on the qualifications and experience level of the successful candidate. This is a three year, term appointment, subject to the anticipated approval from our funder. There is some prospect for renewal. 

Applicants must have a Ph. D. in political science or a related field with a specialization in contemporary Arab/SW Asian military, strategic, political or foreign affairs. A lesser degree combined with very significant off-setting relevant Middle East experience will be considered. A thorough understanding of the Middle East – preferably attained through residence or extensive travel in the region – is essential. Proficiency in Arabic language is preferred, as is teaching experience or a proven ability to communicate in an educational or training environment.

Program faculty will report to the Defense Critical Language/Culture program director Janice L. Trickel and to the director of the Maureen & Mike Mansfield Center at the University (http://www.umt.edu/mansfield/) which will oversee the new program. The new instructor will have faculty associate status at the Mansfield Center.

Applicants are asked to submit a letter of application, a detailed resume, and the names and contact information for three references to the following address by June 6, 2008. We anticipate making a final decision by mid June..

Janice L. Trickel, Program Director
Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center
Mansfield Library, 4th Floor
University of Montana
Missoula, Montana 59812
Fax: (406) 243-2278
Email: Janice.trickel@mso.umt.edu 

The University of Montana is located in Missoula, Montana -- in the heart of the Northern Rockies (and the warmer western part of the state). Missoula offers a stunning natural mountain landscape where five valleys and three major rivers converge. 

The University of Montana is one of two primary universities in the Montana University System. The campus in Missoula is located in a cosmopolitan Rocky Mountain community of 100,000 often singled out in national publications for its arts scene and quality of life. As a research-oriented, doctorate-granting institution, The University of Montana-Missoula has responsibility for the liberal arts and sciences and selected professional and technical education in the State of Montana. The Missoula campus enrolls approximately 14,000 students with a faculty of some 800. The University of Montana has a strong commitment to excellence in teaching, research and service. 

For more information or to express interest, please contact Janice L. Trickel the Director of the Defense Critical Language /Culture Program, Maureen & Mike Mansfield Center, University of Montana at (406) 243-2278 or Janice. Trickel@mso.umt.edu. Applications may also be sent by e-mail.

AA/EOE/ADA/Veteran’s Preference Employer. This position description can be made available in alternative formats upon request.