Research Assistant for the journal Modern Philology

Opportunity Description:


We are looking for an undergraduate researcher who would be willing to read through the archive of the journal Modern Philology, in order to help to produce a database of articles by subject matter and critical method.  The goal is to produce a searchable record of themes and approaches over the journal’s history, stretching back to its first issue in 1903, in order to gain a stronger sense of trends in literary criticism over time.   The intern will work closely with a graduate intern, whose role is to communicate information about our past and current issues by social media.  

Primary Responsibilities: 

The undergraduate researcher will be expected to research the archive of articles, in print (in Regenstein Library) and online, to contribute to the journal’s database of articles.   They will keep a record of topics covered, themes, and approaches employed in the articles, and write a short report at the end of the internship containing their observations regarding broad critical trends.  In consultation with the graduate intern, they will identify topics from the archive that resonate with themes in our more recent issues of the journal.   

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements: 

The student should be able to read scholarly articles in a learned journal, identify topics, themes and critical methods, and work with spreadsheets.    


Preferred Skills: 

Some familiarity with spreadsheets would be desirable.  

Knowledge or skills gained from the experience: 

The student will gain skills in archival research, data management, and report writing.   

Application Process: 

To apply for this opportunity, please submit in *one* pdf document, the following materials: 

  • Current CV with the names and contact details of two references at the end;
  • 350 word statement of interest in the opportunity (not a cover letter);
  • Unofficial transcript

Email your complete application to Dr. Nichole Fazio, Exec. Director of the CCRF at nfazio@uchicago.edu. Please do not email your materials directly to Professor Campbell. Your materials will be reviewed and you may be invited to interview with Professor Campbell or Professor Jo McDonagh. 

Application Requirements: 

  • Submit CV
  • 350 Word Statement of Interest
  • Names of Two References
  • Unofficial Transcript
    • For more information on this opportunity, please contact:

    Timothy Campbell
    nfazio@uchicago.edu
    Faculty Title: 
    Associate Professor
    Department: 
    English Language and Literatures
    Website/CV: 
    CV