cover letter academic

Academic Cover Letters

What is this handout about.

The long list of application materials required for many academic teaching jobs can be daunting. This handout will help you tackle one of the most important components: the cover letter or letter of interest. Here you will learn about writing and revising cover letters for academic teaching jobs in the United States of America.

What is an academic cover letter?

An academic cover letter describes your experiences and interest as a candidate for a specific position. It introduces you to the hiring committee and demonstrates how your academic background fits with the description of the position.

What do cover letters for academic teaching jobs typically contain?

At their most basic level, academic cover letters accomplish three things: one, they express your interest in the job; two, they provide a brief synopsis of your research and teaching; and three, they summarize your past experiences and achievements to illustrate your competence for the job. For early-career scholars, cover letters are typically no more than two pages (up to four pages for senior scholars). Occasionally, a third page may make sense for an early-career scholar if the application does not require a separate teaching statement and/or research statement. Digital versions of cover letters often contain hyperlinks to your CV or portfolio page. For some fields, cover letters may also include examples of your work, including music, popular articles, and other multimedia related to your research, service, or teaching available online. Typically, letters appear on departmental or university letterhead and include your signature. Above all, a strong cover letter presents your accomplishments and your familiarity with the institution and with the position.

How should I prepare to write my academic cover letter?

Like all writing, composing a cover letter is a process. The process may be as short as a few hours or as long as several weeks, but at the end the letter should present you as a strong candidate for the job. The following section has tips and questions for thinking through each stage of this writing process. You don’t need to answer all of these questions to write the letter; they are meant to help you brainstorm ideas.

Before you begin writing your cover letter, consider researching the institution, the department, and the student population. Incorporating all three aspects in your letter will help convey your interest in the position.

Get to know the institution. When crafting your cover letter, be aware of the type of institution to which you are applying. Knowing how the institution presents itself can help you tailor your letter and make it more specific.

• Where is the institution located?
• Is it on a quarter-system or semester-system?
• What type of institution is it? Is it an R1? Is it an R2? Is it a liberal arts college? Is it an HBCU? Is it a community college? A private high school?
• What is the institution’s culture? Is it teaching-focused or research-focused? Does it privilege experiential learning? Does it value faculty involvement outside the classroom? Is it affiliated with a specific religious tradition?
• Does it have any specific institutional commitments?
• How does the institution advocate for involvement in its local community?
• What are the professional development opportunities for new and junior faculty?

Learn about the department. Knowing the specific culture and needs of the department can help you reach your audience: the department members who will be reading your documents and vetting you as a candidate.

• Who is on the search committee? Who is the search committee chair?
• What is the official name of the department?
• Which different subfields make up the department?
• Is it a dual appointment or a position in a dual department?
• How does the department participate in specific types of student outreach?
• Does the department have graduate students? Does it offer a terminal Master’s degree, Ph.D., or both? How large are the cohorts? How are they funded?
• Does the department encourage or engage in interdisciplinary work?
• Does the majority of the department favor certain theoretical or methodological approaches?
• Does the department have partnerships with local institutions? If so, which ones?
• Is the department attempting to fill a specific vacancy, or is it an entirely new position?
• What are the typical course offerings in the department? Which courses might you be expected to teach? What courses might you be able to provide that are not currently available?

Consider the students. The search committee will often consider how you approach instructing and mentoring the student body. Sometimes committees will even reserve a position for a student or solicit student feedback on a candidate:

• What populations constitute the majority of the undergraduate population?
• Have there been any shifts in the student population recently?
• Do students largely come from in-state or out-of-state?
• Is there an international student population? If so, from which countries?
• Is the university recruiting students from traditionally underrepresented populations?
• Are students particularly active on campus? If so, how?

Many answers to these questions can be found both in the job description and on the institution’s website. If possible, consider contacting someone you know at the institution to ask about the culture directly. You can also use the institution’s course catalog, recruitment materials, alumni magazine, and other materials to get answers to these questions. The key is to understand the sort of institution to which you are applying, its immediate needs, and its future trajectory.

Remember, there is a resource that can help you with all three aspects—people. Reach out to your advisor, committee members, faculty mentors, and other contacts for insight into the prospective department’s culture and faculty. They might even help you revise your letter based on their expertise. Think of your job search as an opportunity to cultivate these relationships.

After you have done some initial research, think about how your experiences have prepared you for the job and identify the ones that seem the most relevant. Consider your previous research, internships, graduate teaching, and summer experiences. Here are some topics and questions to get you started thinking about what you might include.

Research Experiences. Consider how your research has prepared you for an academic career. Since the letter is a relatively short document, select examples of your research that really highlight who you are as a scholar, the direction you see your work going, and how your scholarship will contribute to the institution’s research community.

• What are your current research interests?
• What topics would you like to examine in the future?
• How have you pursued those research interests?
• Have you traveled for your research?
• Have you published any of your research? Have you presented it at a conference, symposium, or elsewhere?
• Have you worked or collaborated with scholars at different institutions on projects? If so, what did these collaborations produce?
• Have you made your research accessible to your local community?
• Have you received funding or merit-based fellowships for your research?
• What other research contributions have you made? This may include opinion articles, book chapters, or participating as a journal reviewer.
• How do your research interests relate to those of other faculty in the department or fill a gap?

Teaching Experience. Think about any teaching experience you may have. Perhaps you led recitations as a teaching assistant, taught your own course, or guest lectured. Pick a few experiences to discuss in your letter that demonstrate something about your teaching style or your interest in teaching.

• What courses are you interested in teaching for the department? What courses have you taught that discussed similar topics or themes?
• What new courses can you imagine offering the department that align with their aim and mission?
• Have you used specific strategies that were helpful in your instruction?
• What sort of resources do you typically use in the classroom?
• Do you have anecdotes that demonstrate your teaching style?
• What is your teaching philosophy?
• When have you successfully navigated a difficult concept or topic in the classroom, and what did you learn?
• What other opportunities could you provide to students?

Internships/Summer/Other Experiences. Brainstorm a list of any conferences, colloquiums, and workshops you have attended, as well as any ways you have served your department, university, or local community. This section will highlight how you participate in your university and scholarly community. Here are some examples of things you might discuss:

• Professional development opportunities you may have pursued over the summer or during your studies
• International travel for research or presentations
• Any research you’ve done in a non-academic setting
• Presentations at conferences
• Participation in symposia, reading groups, working groups, etc.
• Internships in which you may have implemented your research or practical skills related to your discipline
• Participation in community engagement projects
• Participation in or leadership of any scholarly and/or university organizations

In answering these questions, create a list of the experiences that you think best reflect you as a scholar and teacher. In choosing which experiences to highlight, consider your audience and what they would find valuable or relevant. Taking the time to really think about your reader will help you present yourself as an applicant well-qualified for the position.

Writing a draft

Remember that the job letter is an opportunity to introduce yourself and your accomplishments and to communicate why you would be a good fit for the position. Typically, search committees will want to know whether you are a capable job candidate, familiar with the institution, and a great future addition to the department’s faculty. As such, be aware of how the letter’s structure and content reflect your preparedness for the position.

The structure of your cover letter should reflect the typical standards for letter writing in the country in which the position is located (the list below reflects the standards for US letter writing). This usually includes a salutation, body, and closing, as well as proper contact information. If you are affiliated with a department, institution, or organization, the letter should be on letterhead.

• Use a simple, readable font in a standard size, such as 10-12pt. Some examples of fonts that may be conventional in your field include Arial, Garamond, Times New Roman, and Verdana, among other similar fonts.
• Do not indent paragraphs.
• Separate all paragraphs by a line and justify them to the left.
• Make sure that any included hyperlinks work.
• Include your signature in the closing.

Before you send in your letter, make sure you proofread and look for formatting mistakes. You’ll read more about proofreading and revising later in this handout!

The second most important aspect of your letter is its content. Since the letter is the first chance to provide an in-depth introduction, it should expand on who you are as a scholar and possible faculty member. Below are some elements to consider including when composing your letter.

Identify the position you are applying to and introduce yourself. Traditionally, the first sentence of a job letter includes the full name of the position and where you discovered the job posting. This is also the place to introduce yourself and describe why you are applying for this position. Since the goal of a job letter is to persuade the search committee to include you on the list of candidates for further review, you may want to include an initial claim as to why you are a strong candidate for the position. Some questions you might consider:

• What is your current status (ABD, assistant professor, post-doc, etc.)?
• If you are ABD, have you defended your dissertation? If not, when will you defend?
• Why are you interested in this position?
• Why are you a strong candidate for this position?

Describe your research experience and interests. For research-centered positions, such as positions at R1 or other types of research-centered universities, include information about your research experience and current work early in the letter. For many applicants, current work will be the dissertation project. If this is the case, some suggest calling your “dissertation research” your “current project” or “work,” as this may help you present yourself as an emerging scholar rather than a graduate student. Some questions about your research that you might consider:

• What research experiences have you had?
• What does your current project investigate?
• What are some of the important methods you applied?
• Have you collaborated with others in your research?
• Have you acquired specific skills that will be useful for the future?
• Have you received special funding? If so, what kind?
• Has your research received any accolades or rewards?
• What does your current project contribute to the field?
• Where have you presented your research?
• Have you published your research? If so, where? Or are you working on publishing your work?
• How does your current project fit the job description?

Present your plans for future research. This section presents your research agenda and usually includes a description of your plans for future projects and research publications. Detailing your future research demonstrates to the search committee that you’ve thought about a research trajectory and can work independently. If you are applying to a teaching-intensive position, you may want to minimize this section and/or consider including a sentence or two on how this research connects to undergraduate and/or graduate research opportunities. Some questions to get you started:

• What is your next research project/s?
• How does this connect to your current and past work?
• What major theories/methods will you use?
• How will this project contribute to the field?
• Where do you see your specialty area or subfield going in the next ten years and how does your research contribute to or reflect this?
• Will you be collaborating with anyone? If so, with whom?
• How will this future project encourage academic discourse?
• Do you already have funding? If so, from whom? If not, what plans do you have for obtaining funding?
• How does your future research expand upon the department’s strengths while simultaneously diversifying the university’s research portfolio? (For example, does your future research involve emerging research fields, state-of-the-art technologies, or novel applications?)

Describe your teaching experience and highlight teaching strategies. This section allows you to describe your teaching philosophy and how you apply this philosophy in your classroom. Start by briefly addressing your teaching goals and values. Here, you can provide specific examples of your teaching methods by describing activities and projects you assign students. Try to link your teaching and research together. For example, if you research the rise of feminism in the 19th century, consider how you bring either the methodology or the content of your research into the classroom. For a teaching-centered institution, such as a small liberal arts college or community college, you may want to emphasize your teaching more than your research. If you do not have any teaching experience, you could describe a training, mentoring, or coaching situation that was similar to teaching and how you would apply what you learned in a classroom.

• What is your teaching philosophy? How is your philosophy a good fit for the department in which you are applying to work?
• What sort of teaching strategies do you use in the classroom?
• What is your teaching style? Do you lecture? Do you emphasize discussion? Do you use specific forms of interactive learning?
• What courses have you taught?
• What departmental courses are you prepared to teach?
• Will you be able to fill in any gaps in the departmental course offerings?
• What important teaching and/or mentoring experiences have you had?
• How would you describe yourself in the classroom?
• What type of feedback have you gotten from students?
• Have you received any awards or recognition for your teaching?

Talk about your service work. Service is often an important component of an academic job description. This can include things like serving on committees or funding panels, providing reviews, and doing community outreach. The cover letter gives you an opportunity to explain how you have involved yourself in university life outside the classroom. For instance, you could include descriptions of volunteer work, participation in initiatives, or your role in professional organizations. This section should demonstrate ways in which you have served your department, university, and/or scholarly community. Here are some additional examples you could discuss:

• Participating in graduate student or junior faculty governance
• Sitting on committees, departmental or university-wide
• Partnerships with other university offices or departments
• Participating in community-partnerships
• Participating in public scholarship initiatives
• Founding or participating in any university initiatives or programs
• Creating extra-curricular resources or presentations

Present yourself as a future faculty member. This section demonstrates who you will be as a colleague. It gives you the opportunity to explain how you will collaborate with faculty members with similar interests; take part in departmental and/or institution wide initiatives or centers; and participate in departmental service. This shows your familiarity with the role of faculty outside the classroom and your ability to add to the departmental and/or institutional strengths or fill in any gaps.

• What excites you about this job?
• What faculty would you like to collaborate with and why? (This answer may be slightly tricky. See the section on name dropping below.)
• Are there any partnerships in the university or outside of it that you wish to participate in?
• Are there any centers associated with the university or in the community that you want to be involved in?
• Are there faculty initiatives that you are passionate about?
• Do you have experience collaborating across various departments or within your own department?
• In what areas will you be able to contribute?
• Why would you make an excellent addition to the faculty at this institution?

Compose a strong closing. This short section should acknowledge that you have sent in all other application documents and include a brief thank you for the reader’s time and/or consideration. It should also state your willingness to forward additional materials and indicate what you would like to see as next steps (e.g., a statement that you look forward to speaking with the search committee). End with a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Kind Regards” followed by your full name.

If you are finding it difficult to write the different sections of your cover letter, consider composing the other academic job application documents (the research statement, teaching philosophy, and diversity statement) first and then summarizing them in your job letter.

Different kinds of letters may be required for different types of jobs. For example, some jobs may focus on research. In this case, emphasize your research experiences and current project/s. Other jobs may be more focused on teaching. In this case, highlight your teaching background and skills. Below are two models for how you could change your letter’s organization based on the job description and the institution. The models offer a guide for you to consider how changing the order of information and the amount of space dedicated to a particular topic changes the emphasis of the letter.

Research-Based Position Job Letter Example:

Teaching-Based Position Job Letter Example:

Remember your first draft does not have to be your last. Try to get feedback from different readers, especially if it is one of your first applications. It is not uncommon to go through several stages of revisions. Check out the Writing Center’s handout on editing and proofreading and video on proofreading to help with this last stage of writing.

Potential pitfalls

Using the word dissertation. Some search committee members may see the word “dissertation” as a red flag that an applicant is too focused on their role as a graduate student rather than as a prospective faculty member. It may be advantageous, then, to describe your dissertation as current research, a current research project, current work, or some other phrase that demonstrates you are aware that your dissertation is the beginning of a larger scholarly career.

Too much jargon. While you may be writing to a specific department, people on the search committee might be unfamiliar with the details of your subfield. In fact, many committees have at least one member from outside their department. Use terminology that can easily be understood by non-experts. If you want to use a specific term that is crucial to your research, then you should define it. Aim for clarity for your reader, which may mean simplification in lieu of complete precision.

Overselling yourself. While your job letter should sell you as a great candidate, saying so (e.g., “I’m the ideal candidate”) in your letter may come off to some search committee members as presumptuous. Remember that although you have an idea about the type of colleague a department is searching for, ultimately you do not know exactly what they want. Try to avoid phrases or sentences where you state you are the ideal or the only candidate right for the position.

Paying too much attention to the job description. Job descriptions are the result of a lot of debate and compromise. If you have skills or research interests outside the job description, consider including them in your letter. It may be that your extra research interests; your outside skills; and/or your extracurricular involvements make you an attractive candidate. For example, if you are a Latin Americanist who also happens to be well-versed in the Spanish Revolution, it could be worth mentioning the expanse of your research interests because a department might find you could fill in other gaps in the curriculum or add an additional or complementary perspective to the department.

Improper sendoff. The closing of your letter is just as important as the beginning. The end of the letter should reflect the professionalism of the document. There should be a thank-you and the word sincerely or a formal equivalent. Remember, it is the very last place in your letter where you present yourself as a capable future colleague.

Small oversights. Make sure to proofread your letter not just for grammar but also for content. For example, if you use material from another letter, make sure you do not include the names of another school, department, or unassociated faculty! Or, if the school is in Chicago, make sure you do not accidentally reference it as located in the Twin Cities.

Name dropping. You rarely know the internal politics of the department or institution to which you are applying. So be cautious about the names you insert in your cover letters. You do not want to unintentionally insert yourself into a departmental squabble or add fire to an interdepartmental conflict. Instead, focus on the actions you will undertake and the initiatives you are passionate about.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Ball, Cheryl E. 2013. “Understanding Cover Letters.” Inside Higher Ed , November 3, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/11/04/essay-cover-letter-academic-jobs .

Borchardt, John. 2014. “Writing a Winning Cover Letter.” Science Magazine , August 6, 2014. https://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2014/08/writing-winning-cover-letter# .

Helmreich, William. 2013. “Your First Academic Job.” Inside Higher Ed , June 17, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/06/17/essay-how-land-first-academic-job .

Kelsky, Karen. 2013. “How To Write a Journal Article Submission Cover Letter.” The Professor Is In (blog), April 26, 2013. https://theprofessorisin.com/2013/04/26/how-to-write-a-journal-article-submission-cover-letter/ .

Tomaska, Lubomir, and Josef Nosek. 2008. “Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Cover Letter to Accompany a Job Application for an Academic Position.” PLoS Computational Biology 14(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1006132 .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Academic Cover Letter Sample

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November 2, 1998

Dr. Naomi Sellers Chair, English Search Committee Box 58 Baxter College Arcadia, WV 24803

Dear Dr. Sellers:

I am writing to apply for the position as assistant professor of English with an emphasis in rhetoric and composition that you advertised in the October MLA Job Information List. I am a graduate student at Prestigious University working on a dissertation under the direction of Professor Prominent Figure. Currently revising the third of five chapters, I expect to complete all work for the Ph.D. by May of 1999. I believe that my teaching and tutoring experience combined with my course work and research background in rhetoric and composition theory make me a strong candidate for the position outlined in your notice.

As my curriculum vitae shows, I have had excellent opportunities to teach a variety of writing courses during my graduate studies, including developmental writing, first-year writing for both native speakers and second language students, advanced writing, and business writing. I have also worked as a teaching mentor for new graduate students, a position that involved instruction in methods of composition teaching, development of course materials, and evaluation of new graduate instructors. Among the most satisfying experiences for me as a teacher has been instructing students on an individual basis as a tutor in our university Writing Lab. Even as a classroom instructor, I find that I always look forward to the individual conferences that I hold with my students several times during the semester because I believe this kind of one-on-one interaction to be essential to their development as writers.

My work in the composition classroom has provided me with the inspiration as well as a kind of laboratory for my dissertation research. My project, The I Has It: Applications of Recent Models of Subjectivity in Composition Theory, examines the shift since the 1960s from expressive models of writing toward now-dominant postmodern conceptions of decentered subjectivity and self-construction through writing. I argue that these more recent theoretical models, while promising, cannot have the liberating effects that are claimed for them without a concomitant reconception of writing pedagogy and the dynamics of the writing classroom. I relate critical readings of theoretical texts to my own pedagogical experiments as a writing teacher, using narratives of classroom successes and failures as the bases for critical reflection on postmodern composition theory. After developing my dissertation into a book manuscript, I plan to continue my work in current composition theory through a critical examination of the rhetoric of technological advancement in the computer-mediated writing classroom.

My interest in the computer classroom has grown out of recent experience teaching composition in that environment. In these courses my students have used computers for writing and turning in notes and essays, communicating with one another and with me, conducting library catalogue research and web research, and creating websites. I have encouraged my students to think and write critically about their experiences with technology, both in my class and elsewhere, even as we have used technology to facilitate our work in the course. Syllabi and other materials for my writing courses can be viewed at my website: http://machine.prestigious.edu/~name. In all of my writing courses I encourage students to become critical readers, thinkers, and writers; my goal is always not only to promote their intellectual engagement with cultural texts of all kinds but also to help them become more discerning readers of and forceful writers about the world around them.

I have included my curriculum vitae and would be happy to send you additional materials such as a dossier of letters of reference, writing samples, teaching evaluations, and past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you for an interview at either the MLA or the CCCC convention, or elsewhere at your convenience. I can be reached at my home phone number before December 19; between then and the start of the MLA convention, you can reach me at (123) 456-7890. I thank you for your consideration and look forward to hearing from you.

First Lastname

Points to Remember

• Use the form of address and title of the contact person as they appear in the job notice.
• Refer to the job title as it appears in the notice, and state where you learned of the position.
• Mention your major professor by name, especially if he or she is well known in your field. Also, mention your expected completion date.
• Make a claim for your candidacy that you will support in the body of the letter.
• For a position at a small undergraduate college, emphasize teaching experience and philosophy early in the letter.
• Describe your dissertation and plans for future research. Emphasize links between your teaching and research interests.
• Mention specific teaching experience that is relevant to the job notice or is otherwise noteworthy.
• Refer to relevant materials available on the web.
• State your willingness to forward additional materials and to meet for an interview.
• Mention any temporary changes in contact information.

Crafting The Perfect Academic Cover Letter: A Step-By-Step Guide

Land your dream academic position! Craft a compelling academic cover letter that highlights your skills and experience.

This guide will help you create a winning academic cover letter! Here you’ll find everything you need, whether you’re an experienced academic or a fresh graduate seeking your dream job in academia. We’ll discuss how to write an academic cover letter that grabs attention while highlighting your skills and experiences.

Making a positive impression on hiring committees and search panels begins with a well-crafted academic cover letter. This document serves as your introduction , demonstrating your passion for your field, your qualifications, and your fit for the institution and position you are applying for.

A great cover letter can make all the difference in the competitive world of academia, where job openings are often limited and highly sought after. A cover letter provides context to your CV or resume, allowing you to highlight specific experiences, projects, or accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for the position. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide you with tips, strategies, and examples to help you craft a compelling academic cover letter that sets you apart from the competition. So let’s dive in and start crafting your path to academic success !

The Purpose (Why Do You Need A Cover Letter?)

It is imperative to include a cover letter in your job application package when applying to academic jobs. A cover letter serves as a personal introduction, adding depth and context to your CV or resume. In order to better understand its specific purpose, let’s look at:

1. Explaining How you fit the position and Interest: In your cover letter, you can explain why you are interested in the position and institution. It gives you the chance to explain why you are applying, whether it is the institution’s reputation, specific research opportunities, or alignment with your career objectives. You can also express your interest in the program and describe how it fits into your future goals. Additionally, you should demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the program.

2. Highlighting Your Qualifications: In contrast to CVs and resumes, cover letters provide you with an opportunity to highlight and contextualize specialized experiences or qualifications relevant to the role. In order to demonstrate your suitability for the job, you can highlight specific projects, publications, teaching experiences, or other accomplishments.

3. Personalizing Your Application: Unlike a CV or resume, which tends to be more standardized, a cover letter offers you the chance to personalize your application for a specific job and institution. By addressing the hiring committee directly and tailoring your content to the institution’s values, mission, and goals, you can demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment.

4. Adding Context: At times, you may need to explain or contextualize certain aspects of your application. It can be helpful to include a cover letter if you are transitioning from one field within academia to another, or if there are gaps in your employment history.

5. Showcase Your Communication Skills: In academia, effective communication is paramount. An important skill that hiring committees look for is the ability to communicate clearly and persuasively in writing. You can demonstrate your writing style, professionalism, and attention to detail with a well-crafted cover letter.

6. Stand Out From Other Candidates : Being able to stand out from other applicants is essential in a competitive job market. With a thoughtfully written cover letter, you can convey aspects of your personality, work ethic, and passion for your field not readily apparent from your CV.

Research About The Institution

The first step in writing an academic cover letter is to thoroughly research the institution as well as the role for which you’re applying. By taking this step, you not only demonstrate your genuine interest in the position, but you also tailor your cover letter to make it more compelling to hiring managers.

Importance Of Research Before The Interview

You demonstrate your genuine interest in joining the academic community by demonstrating your knowledge about the institution and the position. You can align your qualifications and experience with what they are seeking in a candidate if you understand the institution’s values, mission, and goals. By researching the department, faculty members, and ongoing projects, you can use your insights to enhance the relevance and impact of your cover letter.

Tips for researching about the Institution:

• Explore the Institution’s Website: Start by thoroughly exploring the institution’s official website. Learn about the faculty members, research areas, academic programs, and recent achievements of the department you’re applying to.
• Read Faculty Profiles and Publications: Take the time to read faculty profiles and publications related to your field of expertise. Furthermore, this will help you identify potential collaborators or mentors within the department.
• Review Recent News and Press Releases: Check for any recent news articles or press releases about the institution. It can provide valuable insights into the Lab’s accomplishments, partnerships, or current initiatives.
• Utilize Professional Networks: Reach out to your professional network, including colleagues, mentors, or alumni who may have insights or connections related to the institution or position. You might find valuable information or advice from them that you couldn’t find through traditional research methods.
• Attend Departmental Events or Webinars: If possible, attend departmental events, seminars, or webinars hosted by the institution. In addition to learning more about their academic community, you will also have an opportunity to network with faculty and students.

Tailoring Your Cover Letter

As soon as you have gathered enough information about the institution and the position, you can tailor your cover letter accordingly. Here are some tips for writing a targeted and impactful cover letter:

• Start your cover letter with the name of the institution and the position you are applying for. It shows that you have done your homework and immediately grabs the reader’s attention.
• Provide examples from your background that are directly related to the institution’s research areas, teaching philosophy, or academic initiatives. By doing so, you demonstrate how your skills and experience are in line with their requirements.
• Refer to specific projects, programs, or initiatives in your cover letter if the institution has them. Explain how your expertise or interests make you a good candidate for participation or contribution.
• Describe how you align with the institution’s values, mission, and academic culture. In this way, you demonstrate your commitment to excellence and innovation in education and research.

Academic Cover Letter Structure

Your introduction serves three purposes: grabbing the reader’s attention, expressing your interest in the position, and briefly describing your qualifications. The following is a list of what to include:

• A strong opening sentence or paragraph that captures the reader’s interest.
• The position you are applying for and where you learned about it.
• A brief introduction of yourself and your interest in the position and institution .

Here is a simple Example:

“Dear Hiring Committee/Department Chair, I am writing to express my interest in the Specific Position at the Institution , as advertised on XYZ . With a passion for mentioning your field or research interest , coupled with relevant experience or qualification , I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Institution’s name or department .”

Body Paragraphs

Describe your qualifications, relevant experiences, and how they are aligned with the job requirements in the body paragraphs. The following is a list of what to include:

• Detailed discussion of your academic background, research experience, teaching experience if any, and any other relevant skills or accomplishments.
• Specific examples and achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the position.
• Alignment of your qualifications with the institution’s mission, values, and goals.

“As a research assistant at [University/Institute], I conducted groundbreaking research in [specific area], resulting in [mention of any publications, grants, or awards]. In addition to my expertise in [relevant technique or methodology ], I am particularly drawn to [Institution’s name or department] due to the institution’s commitment to [mention any specific initiatives or focus areas].”

In the conclusion, you express gratitude for the opportunity to apply, summarize your interest, and offer a call to action. The following is a list of what to include:

• A summary of your interest in the position and how you can contribute to the institution.
• Expression of gratitude for the opportunity to apply and the reader’s consideration.
• A call to action, such as expressing readiness for an interview or providing additional materials if needed.

“Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to contributing to [Institution’s name or department]’s mission of [mention the institution’s mission or goals] with my expertise in [your field]. It would be my pleasure to provide any additional information you may need. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience align with the needs of [Institution].”

Academic Cover Letter Template

Dear Hiring Committee, Dear Hiring Committee/Department Chair, I am writing to express my interest in the Specific Position at Institution , as advertised on XYZ . With a passion for mentioning your field or research interest , coupled with relevant experience or qualification , I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Institution’s name or department . As a research assistant at [University/Institute ], I conducted groundbreaking research in [ specific area ], resulting in [ mention any publications, grants, or award s]. In addition to my expertise in [ relevant technique or methodology ], I am particularly drawn to [ Institution’s name or department ] due to the institution’s commitment to [ mention any specific initiatives or focus areas ]. Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to contributing to [ Institution’s name or department] ‘s mission of [ mention the institution’s mission or goals ] with my expertise in [ your field ]. It would be my pleasure to provide any additional information you may need. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience align with the needs of [I nstitutio n]. Sincerely, Name

Using this structure , you can craft an effective cover letter for an academic position. Personalize each section based on your experiences and the specific requirements of the position and institution you are applying for.

Polishing And Final Touch

You should polish your academic cover letter after you draft it to ensure that it effectively conveys your qualifications and professionalism. During this final step, you will check your letter for errors, edit it, and ask for feedback to ensure that it is as good as possible.

Proofreading and Editing

You should proofread your cover letter to ensure it contains no grammatical, spelling, punctuation, or clarity errors. The following tips will help you proofread effectively:

• Take your time when reviewing your cover letter. Make sure you don’t rush through proofreading.
• The best way to catch awkward phrasing, repetitions, and grammatical errors in your cover letter is to read it aloud to yourself.
• Take advantage of spelling and grammar checkers available in word processing software like Microsoft Word or Grammarly. It is important to remember that these tools may not detect all errors, so don’t rely on them solely.
• Be clear and concise in your sentences. Use simple language rather than overly complex jargon that might confuse the reader.
• Your cover letter should be consistent in terms of formatting, punctuation, and writing style.

Professional Tone and Formatting

Making a positive impression on potential employers requires a professional tone and formatting. You can ensure professionalism in your cover letter by following these steps:

• Write in a formal tone appropriate for academic and professional settings. Don’t use slang, contractions, or language that is too casual.
• Follow a standard business letter format, including your contact information, the recipient’s information, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You should use a professional font and a standard font size (e.g., Times New Roman, 12-point).
• When possible, address the recipient by name and title . Use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Committee” or “Dear Search Committee” if you’re unsure of the recipient’s name.
• Double-check your contact information, including your email address and phone number.

Seeking Feedback

Your cover letter can be improved by getting feedback from others. Feedback can be obtained from the following sources:

• Review your cover letter with trusted classmates or colleagues and ask for constructive criticism. It is possible for them to offer fresh perspectives and catch errors that might have slipped your mind.
• Find mentors with experience in your field of study or academia who can provide feedback. It is possible to get guidance from them on how to tailor your cover letter for a particular academic position.
• If your university has a career center or academic advising office, make use of those resources. Academic cover letters can be tailored to different positions by career advisors.

To ensure your academic cover letter presents you to potential employers in the best light, be sure to proofread, maintain a professional tone and format, and seek feedback from peers, mentors, and career advisors.

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ImPACKful Tips: How to Write a Better Academic Cover Letter

Everybody has a story. The ability to identify the narrative arc of that story, and share it in a concise and compelling way, is what separates a good cover letter from the slush pile. Want to write an excellent cover letter? Make sure you know—and care—enough about your audience so that you can adapt your storyline to complement theirs.

What is an academic cover letter, and why do I need to write one?

Essentially, the cover letter introduces you to the search committee. (An academic cover letter should be one to two pages long.) It works in tandem with the CV to make an argument about your suitability for the advertised position—in other words, your “fit.”

It is my contention that there are two kinds of search committee members in the world:

• those who start with the CV, and
• those who start with the cover letter.

For that reason, your cover letter needs to stand on its own as a meaningful document . It interprets the timeline you set out in your CV without reiterating it. So if there’s something you want the committee to see in your CV, or understand about you as a candidate, you need to address it in your cover letter.

Think about it this way: your cover letter, working together with your CV, is what persuades the search committee to read the rest of your application package.

What do most cover letters look like and why are they boring?

Most cover letters are, at least in my experience, about the applicant. They focus on what the applicant has done and is currently doing, what the applicant likes or dislikes, and the applicant’s hopes and dreams for the future.

An analogy to the world of dating is apt here: imagine that you’ve met someone who wants to establish a lifelong (tenured or contract renewable!) relationship with you. You’re open to hearing how the two of you will forge a better life together—and then your date starts talking about their amazing qualities, their past relationships, their five-year plan for personal fulfillment, and in the last five minutes of the date they mention that you’re a great listener.

In short, most cover letters are one-sided and therefore, of limited interest to the reader who (in the vast majority of academic job searches) is an actual human.

How do I write a better cover letter?

Step one:  read the job ad carefully & adapt accordingly.

The first step is to read the job advertisement very carefully, and then adapt your message accordingly. If, for example, the advertised position is for a 4/4 course load at a teaching-intensive liberal arts college, focusing your cover letter on your cutting-edge research agenda is unlikely to be effective. A better strategy is to address how your research informs your teaching practice and how you would involve undergraduates in a meaningful way.

Conversely, a cover letter for a research-focused position should emphasize past, current, and future research directions as they align with the department’s priorities.

Step Two: Align your experience and future plans with the job description

The order in which the job ad outlines responsibilities and priorities gives you a basic template for your letter. If you find yourself resisting this order—struggling to talk about teaching or research in a way that aligns with the advertised position, for example—it’s a sign that you might not want to invest your time in applying for that position.

You’re thinking about getting a job—but the search committee wants to hire someone who will be successful in the advertised role. Your goal in the cover letter is not just to impress the search committee with what you’ve done; it’s to demonstrate that you will be a solid long-term investment as a colleague .

Step Three: Focus only on the positions that match your research & teaching profile and that you’re most excited about!

At this point, most would ask, “In this job market, shouldn’t everyone apply for everything?” Not everyone will agree with me on this, but I say no. Having analyzed the data from my own academic job searches, I can affirm that I achieved equivalent or better results (measured in quantity and quality of interviews) by focusing only on the positions that best matched my research and teaching profile instead of adopting the scattershot approach of my first full-scale job search.

By limiting the number of positions you apply to, you will be able to devote more time to researching the department, the institution, the student demographics, the geographical region—anything and everything that will help you connect with the audience reading your cover letter, demonstrate your fit for the position , and convey your enthusiasm.

And while we’re on the subject, showing time and care and attention in your cover letter will express your enthusiasm far more effectively than resorting to everyone’s default sentence, I am passionate.

This sounds like a lot of time to spend, and a lot of effort!

• be able to use all of this information in an interview setting;
• accept an offer with confidence in your chances of success and happiness;
• have a realistic plan when you step into your new role as a faculty member; and
• show respect for your potential future colleagues.

You’re making a significant investment of time and energy in your job search—why not make every word count?

Interested in learning more about cover letters and getting feedback on your work in progress?

Attend one of our cover letter workshops or ask a member of your PACK to read your letter. You can view sample cover letters from the UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development and from our own postdoc manager, Dr. Christopher Smith .

Dr. Erin Frey (postdoctoral teaching fellow, CVM) writes,

“I was able to transform my cover letter into an authentic statement that highlighted personal stories of my passion and vision for the position and for the department.”

She adds that working with the professional development team “ helped me to understand what resonates with search committees and how to use concrete experiences to demonstrate my clinical teaching philosophies.”

Sign up for one of our workshops in the fall or ask someone in your PACK to help you with your cover letter today. Using our ImPACKful tips and resources, your story will shine bright in your cover letter.

Have suggestions on content you would like to see in the future?

Let us know your ideas here .

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3 Academic Cover Letter Examples Created for 2024 

• Academic Cover Letter
• Academic Advisor Cover Letter
• Academic Advisor No Experience Cover Letter
• Write Your Academic Cover Letter

Whether you work as a teacher or an academic advisor, your students know they can count on you to answer their questions and assist them with paperwork. You also process student records and monitor academic progress to provide personalized advice for student success.

But how can you write a cover letter that’s as pleasant and user-friendly as those syllabus guides you hand out?

Don’t worry! We’ve been helping academic professionals find their dream jobs for years. And with our three academic cover letter examples and free AI cover letter generator , you’ll be all set for success!

Academic Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your academic cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Austin, TX 76208 (123) 456-7890

September 10, 2023

Emma Moore Baltimore International Academy 123 Fictional Lane Baltimore, MD 21201

Dear Ms. Moore,

I am inspired by Baltimore International Academy’s dedication to fostering a rich learning environment and shaping the next generation of global citizens. Your school’s focus on language immersion and cultural exposure aligns with my approach to education. It would be a privilege to join your esteemed faculty as a teacher, utilizing my skills in Learning Management Systems (LMS), online assessment tools to invigorate the educational experience in your school.

During my tenure at Friends School of Baltimore, I implemented LMS platforms like Canvas and Blackboard to streamline lesson planning and resource sharing with 372 students. The seamless integration of these online tools surged in-class engagement by 17% and average test scores by 12%.

My experience at Garrison Forest School allowed me to embrace online assessment tools, like Kahoot, to develop captivating quizzes that reinforced learning objectives among my students. We observed a 9% improvement in academic performance and heightened class participation.

At the Park School of Baltimore, I incorporated multimedia presentations using Prezi to enliven course material and spur student interaction in my lessons. This innovative addition resulted in a 13% rise in course completions and a tangible increase in thought-provoking in-class discussions.

Thank you for your consideration. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how I could further your school’s mission to foster global-minded learners.

Olga Petrov

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Teaching Certificate

Why this cover letter works

• In line with the demands of modern learning, demonstrate expertise in various learning management, assessment, and presentation tools like Kahoot, Blackboard, and Prezi.

Pair Your Cover Letter with a Matching Academic Resume

or download as PDF

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Academic Advisor Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your academic advisor cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Atlanta, GA 30033 (123) 456-7890

James Lewis Clark Atlanta University 123 Fictional Lane Atlanta, GA 30033

Dear Mr. Lewis,

Nurturing my deep interests in academia while serving at Georgia State University (GSU), I realized the profound influence of well-structured academic advising. With this valuable insight, I am drawn to the academic advisor position at Clark Atlanta University.

My methodology as an academic advisor is centered on elucidating the comprehensive significance of selected courses. This ideology stemmed from my career at Emory University, where I used my expertise in the Banner SIS system to manage student records. This practice increased efficiency by 33% in tracking students’ progression within my first advising year.

Recognizing from a 2008 study that approximately 21% of students usually change their initial majors, my solutions-driven approach led to a significant 38% reduction in major shifts among a study size of 4,122 students at GSU over three years. Additionally, a promising 22% of these students, around 1,987 scholars, are currently engaged in postgraduate studies.

Academic advising extends beyond merely course selection; it’s a nuanced task. Encountering such subtleties at Spelman College, I collaborated with the IT department to apply my knowledge in online course design using Microsoft Office Suite. This project facilitated the creation of 37 streamlined online courses, improving course accessibility by 42% for over 1,523 students.

Addressing students’ academic apprehensions means more than just clarifying their doubts. These instances mark the onset of an expansive academic exploration journey. If these accomplishments resonate with the ethos of Clark Atlanta University, I anticipate the possibility of contributing to your student’s academic exploration journey and their potential success. Thank you for your consideration.

Fatima Faris

• This example takes it a notch higher with statistics unique to the potential employer’s sector, accomplishments supported by concrete numbers, and prowess in tools like the Banner SIS system.

Academic Advisor No Experience Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your academic advisor no experience cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Portland, OR 97211 (123) 456-7890

James Hernandez Portland State University 123 Fictional Lane Portland, OR 97211

Dear Mr. Hernandez,

While pursuing my business administration degree in Atlanta, Georgia, I watched a friend wrestle his way through college planning and course selection—an ordeal that unfortunately extended his graduation date. This personal experience ignited my resolve to ensure no student has to face similar struggles. I aim to bring my proficiency in institutional and advising experience, strategic thinking skillset, and expertise with Student Information System (SIS) platforms, like DegreeWorks, into the academic advising assistant role at Portland State University.

I have honed my skills in constructing academic plans, devising strategic pathways, and steering students toward fruitful academic outcomes through various internships and volunteering experiences. I partnered with 42 faculty members at Reed College to gather feedback and convert it into comprehensive progress reviews. By utilizing data from these reports and employing SIS platforms like DegreeWorks, I detected gaps in academic planning, mitigated these concerns, and ultimately boosted student satisfaction by 38%.

I have been empowering student populations of diverse backgrounds, enhancing my interpersonal skills, and preparing myself to guide students effectively in their academic journey. Notably, while volunteering at Multnomah University, I collaborated with a team of 4 other volunteers using academic planning tools like MyPlan to overhaul an archaic academic pathway. This initiative led to a 24% decline in student complaints and a 19% uptick in successful course completion rates. Moreover, my capacity to interpret and analyze multi-layered insights from DegreeWorks facilitated the creation of 768 unique academic plans.

Insightful adaptability, robust relationship management skills, and the belief in a collaborative work culture have defined my professional journey and will hold me in good stead in this role as well. Thank you, and I am grateful for your time in reviewing my application. I relish the prospect of demonstrating how I can contribute to the academic success of the students at Portland State University.

Alexei Orlov

• Even without formal experience, highlight the impacts you facilitated when interning or volunteering. Then conclude your academic advisor no experience cover letter by reinstating your interest in the role and requesting further discussion.

Related cover letter examples

• Career Change
• Teacher Assistant
• Elementary Teacher

How to Format an Academic Cover Letter

Make sure you’re writing your cover letter to the place where you’re applying and not just anywhere. Address the institution by name somewhere in your letter and hearken to their values with keywords inspired by the job ad and About page.

You’ll also want to provide details about your qualifications that specifically match the job description . If you have what they’re looking for, like a background in IT, make sure you mention it.

Academic cover letter introduction

As with any letter, you’ll need to address your academic cover letter to someone by name! It might take a bit of homework to research who that is, but it’s worth the extra effort. No one wants to see another “To Whom It May Concern” letter!

You’ll need a good hook, too, so don’t give away all your best qualities right away. Not only should this paragraph be sleek and powerful, but you’ll want to allude to the fact that you also have more abilities, fostering an interest in learning more.

When you state that you’re the right fit for the job, give a cursory overview of why. What notable schools or projects have you worked with? Where’s the best overlapping area where you can establish a connection with the company? Your cover letter should lay out what qualifications you have and how they benefit the organization.

And stay formal, too! Match the vibe of the institution instead of coming off as too informal and unenthusiastic:

Hi, I can’t wait to get started working for your company. There’s plenty of stuff I’ve done that makes me good.

It’s way better to address the institution (and letter recipient!) by name and connect with the values they represent, like in this opener:

That’s much better!

Nurturing my deep interests in academia while serving at Georgia State University (GSU), I realized the profound influence of well-structured academic advisement. With this new and valuable insight, I am eager to elevate the faculty at Clark Atlanta University through the academic advisor position.

Academic cover letter body

Now that you’ve laid down a solid foundation for qualifications and left the reader wanting more, it’s time to deliver! What have some of your greatest academic successes been?

Recruiters and hiring managers need to see that you’ve already made a positive impact in your field. Your body paragraphs should each contain one main point about your qualifying experiences that have left a measurable impact. The overall body of your cover letter should tell a story of how you’ve become increasingly able to pave the way for academic excellence.

What kinds of GPA improvements, personal ratings, or boosts in overall department or school ratings can you cite as quantifiable metrics for your success? Make sure you work in a smooth reference to an impressive extra certification or two if you have some!

Make sure you tailor these paragraphs to the job description . Emphasize things that overlap with the job requirements as you pick which body paragraphs work best.

Example of an impressive body paragraph

Academic cover letter closing

Your closing paragraph should sum up how your past work experiences that you listed in your body paragraphs make you an excellent hire. Refer to the job description and institution’s website to get an idea of which obstacles they currently face, and mention your ability to help.

Include a call to action that tells your reader to reach out to you again for more information so that you can share even more about how you can excel in your new job role! And don’t forget to hearken to the company’s values to reinforce that connection you’ve built.

Make sure you thank the reader for their time, too! You can do this either in your closing paragraph or your signoff.

Don’t use an informal signoff with no intrigue or call to action, like this one:

I’d be great at working for your school because I have a lot of experience with it. And I can do all kinds of academic stuff.

End with a strong recap of why you align with the institution already, and invite further discussion of your qualifications with a thankful attitude and formal signoff:

Much nicer:

Insightful adaptability, robust relationship management skills, and the belief in a collaborative work culture have defined my professional journey and will hold me in good stead in this role as well. Thank you, and I am grateful for your time in reviewing my application. I relish the prospect of demonstrating how I can contribute to that academic success of the students at Portland State University.

You’ll usually address the hiring manager or a recruiter when you write your academic cover letter, so start by looking for them in the original job post. If you’re having trouble finding names, check the company’s website or social media accounts like LinkedIn.

While you have the job description and company website open, try to get a feel for their company culture. Are you applying to an institution that sounds more formal or laid-back? Whatever level of formality they use, match it!

Keep it to just one page! Recruiters don’t have much time to review your application, so it’s important to keep your academic cover letter easy to skim. Plus, they’ll still need time to look over your academic resume and any other application materials, too!

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How to Write a Cover Letter for Academic Jobs

The purpose of your cover letter

The power of the cover letter in making an effective job application should never be underestimated. A good cover letter will grab the employer’s attention and make them want to read your CV. The purpose of your cover letter and CV together is to whet the employer’s appetite, to establish you as a serious contender for the post and to persuade the recruiter that you are worth an interview.

The cover letter exists to:

• Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the post, based on the research you have done about the role and the institution
• Explain your rationale for applying and how the role fits with your career plans
• Answer the question “Why should we hire you?” by demonstrating how you meet the key criteria for the post and what sets you apart from other candidates
• Provide evidence of your written communication and language skills, including the ability to be clear, succinct and articulate. This is especially important for teaching roles as the ability to communicate the nature and impact of your academic work to a non-academic audience is crucial.

This article focuses on cover letters for roles in Academia and addresses:

When to send a cover letter

• What format to use
• How to tailor it to a particular role
• Marketing yourself in the cover letter
• The dos and don’ts of cover letter writing
• An example ‘before’ and ‘after’ cover letter with detailed explanations of the improvements made
• A checklist for you to ensure your cover letter is as effective as possible.

You should always send a cover letter with your CV unless you are expressly asked not to. The only exception is if you are posting your CV on a database/with an agency where it will be seen by numerous employers, in which case a Profile on the CV itself is helpful.

Even if you have explained your motivation for applying on the application form, it is still worth sending a separate cover letter. This is because the cover letter gives you another opportunity to market yourself and can strengthen your chances.

The format of a cover letter

For jobs in academia, the length of the cover letter will depend on the seniority of the post. In any event, you should ensure the letter is no longer than two pages; one and a half pages is better still. In order to make an impact, and to prove that you can explain ideas fluently and clearly, the letter needs to be succinct. This is not the place to give in-depth detail about your research and academic interests; remember that the letter may be read by non-academics too, such as staff from Human Resources. You can always give further details of your academic and research activities on your CV or in an Appendix to your CV.

Keep paragraphs short and your typeface clear (a font size of 11 or 12 is recommended) as the employer’s attention span will be brief.

It is traditional to write the cover letter in paragraph format, and this is the format we have used for our example letter, although some candidates choose to use bullet points and/or bold to highlight key points.

The order of paragraphs is not critical, but the following is recommended:

• Address and salutation: Address the letter to a named person i.e. the Head of Department.
• First paragraph: An introduction, explaining which post you are applying for, how you heard about it, and some brief background on who you are e.g. in terms of your research interests and academic background.
• Middle section: Evidence of your academic career in terms of your research interests and achievements as well as teaching and administrative experience. Also mention your future research plans. The balance between research, teaching and administration will depend on the nature of the institution and department’s work.
• Final section: Explain what attracts you to this role in this institution and department and how the role fits in to your career plans.
• Concluding paragraph: A conclusion summarising what makes you suitable for the job and a statement expressing interest in an interview.

Tailoring your letter

The best way to tailor your letter effectively is to:

Do your research

Your cover letter needs to show what a great match you are for the job. The job and person specification will only give you so much. In order to understand the job context, how your own research interests will fit into the department’s academic offering, what the recruiters are really looking for and how the department and job might develop in future you need to make your own enquiries.

This could include:

Online research

For example: into the University and Department’s academic programmes, it’s research and student profile, the research interests of key staff and so on. There is much information available publicly (for example, the institution’s and department’s external websites, the department’s latest research ranking, academic forums and even Good University Guides). For external  appointments, you may be limited to what is available publicly so do use your networks to access these.

Discussion with the Head of Department

Most recruiters are only too happy to answer questions about the job from potential applicants beforehand. This can also help you get your ‘name in the frame’ early. Just ensure that your  questions are well researched and be warned that the conversation might turn into an informal interview. You should reflect on why the department should hire you, and refine your ‘elevator pitch’ before arranging the call.

Conversations with other academics in the department and institution

You can also speak to people who previously worked there, who have worked with key staff in the department at some point in their career, as well as support staff. This will give you a better idea of the culture of the institution and the work of the department. For internal roles, you can use your internal networks to find these people. For external roles, you might ask the Head of  Department to put you in touch with other staff – or use your networks to see who knows someone in the right department and institution.

The depth of your research will show in your application and can really distinguish serious applicants from the rest of the pack. It’s also great preparation for the interview stage.

Be selective

The best way to tailor your letter is to pick out only the top three or four criteria for the post and focus your evidence on these. If the employer is convinced you have the right credentials,  experience and skills for the areas that matter most, the chances are that they will invite you to interview. Your CV and your interview can cover the rest.

Remember to include your skills outside research

Whilst the focus of your cover letter may be about communicating the relevance and depth of your academic experience, don’t forget to give evidence of those softer skills which may also be relevant to the job. These are likely to be outlined in the person specification and may include supervising PhD students, writing funding bids, managing other staff and project planning.

Marketing yourself effectively

Before you write your letter, you need to be clear on what your Unique Selling Points are for the role in relation to the key job criteria.

Think about what will differentiate you from the competition. Consider who else might apply, internally and externally, and what they might offer. Consider what makes you stand out from them. This might include:

• Greater depth of expertise in this field or a higher research profile than other likely applicants
• A particular blend of experiences which give you a unique perspective (e.g. international experience, having worked in both academia and industry, or having held posts in more than one academic discipline)
• Specific achievements in your current and previous roles
• A passion for and commitment to this area of research or working for this institution (e.g. perhaps you completed your PhD there)
• Well developed research or funding networks which could prove helpful in the job
• Or anything else you think might make the stand out in a way which is relevant to the role.

Tips for success

• Put your most convincing evidence first. You need to make an impact in the first few sentences. Talk about your current or most relevant job first
• Focus on achievements in your current and previous roles rather than merely your responsibilities (publications, new courses developed, funding awards won and so on). Quantify these wherever possible
• Illustrate your achievements with brief but specific examples, explaining why these are relevant to this role. You can refer the employer to the CV for more detail
• Concentrate on the areas which differentiate you from the competition rather than the basic job criteria
• Demonstrate how well you have researched the role and the job context when explaining your career motivation
• Explain your rationale if you are seeking a career change or sideways move
• Be succinct. Ask someone to go through it with you and edit out any wordy sentences and redundant words. Some academic institutions offer a confidential careers advice service to staff members through their University Careers Service
• End on a note of enthusiasm and anticipation.
• Try to summarise your CV or give too much detail – you need to be selective about the points that you highlight
• Make unsubstantiated statements about relevant skills and experience without giving examples
• Send the same or a similar letter to more than one employer. Never ‘cut and paste’ as employers will suspect a lack of research and career focus
• Make generalised statements about why you want to work for the institution (e.g. referring to ‘a top 50 global institution’ or ‘a department with a high reputation’)
• Use jargon specific to your employer or profession which the employer might not understand
• Focus on what the employer can do for you – it’s more about what you can do for the employer.

Example cover letter – with comments

Example cover letter – improved version

Cover letter checklist

Before you send off your letter, use our final checklist to ensure your letter is as strong as possible.

• Done your homework so that you are clear about what the employer wants?
• Given clear evidence of how you meet the most important criteria of the job?
• Kept it to two pages or less?
• Put your most important evidence in the first half of the letter?
• Explained your academic interests clearly in a way that non-academics could understand?
• Asked a friend to proof read it and ensure the language is succinct and clear?
• Addressed it to the right person?
• Given a convincing explanation of why you want the job?
• Ended with a summary of why you would be perfect for this role?

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Lisa Carr is a careers consultant and coach who works with a range of public and private organisations including the University of Warwick and Warwick Business School, where she coaches Executive MBAs. She began her career as an HR manager in the energy industry and spent a number of years lecturing for the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. After qualifying as a Careers Guidance practitioner she has worked with a wide range of clients from undergraduates through to senior academics and company directors.

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Academic cover letter example

Cover letter header: How to reach you

Cover letter greeting: always try to personalize, cover letter introduction: start strong, cover letter middle part (body): make your case, cover letter conclusion and sign-off.

If you’ve decided that an occupation in academia is right for you, you’ll need a well-written academic cover letter to start you down the path. Fortunately, if you’ve faced a master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation before, writing a one-page cover letter should be a walk in the park – if you know the right way to go about it.

That’s where we can help. This academic cover letter writing guide and the examples it provides will describe what you need to know to craft an outstanding application letter, including:

• The best format for an academic cover letter
• The six elements of a successful academic cover letter

The psychology of writing an effective cover letter

• Common mistakes to avoid

You can find more writing and formatting tips in Resume.io’s 125+ occupation-specific cover letter examples and writing guides.

Best format for an academic cover letter

Proper formatting for an academic cover letter requires good structure, design and layout. Cover letters should almost never be longer than one page, and they must include six essential elements:

• Introduction
• Sign-off and signature

Your letter should also look as good as it reads. Here are some of the design choices you need to consider:

• Font: Choose a professional, easy-to-read font that doesn’t distract from your content.
• Font size: Use a font size of 10 to 12 points. Do not resort to using a tiny font size to make your letter fit onto one page.
• Margins: Use 1-inch margins on the top, bottom, left and right.
• Align text left: Text should be aligned left, not justified from margin to margin.
• Paragraphs: Do not indent paragraphs, but leave a space between them. Use enough paragraph breaks to avoid big blocks of black text.

For more design advice, see our comprehensive guide on how to write a cover letter.

Below you’ll find adaptable academic cover letter examples that can serve as a framework for your own.

The cover letter header, also known as a letterhead, should be an attractively designed section at the top that includes your name, occupation, mailing address, phone number and email. If you have a LinkedIn profile or another website that highlights your academic or professional achievements, you can include that as well. 

The header is your best opportunity to give your letter a stylish design and layout, with thoughtful use of typography and layout and perhaps an accent color. Your letter should look nice at a glance, before anyone even reads the first word, creating a positive visual impression as soon as it’s opened. Check out our cover letter example for more ideas on creating a great header.

“Dear Dr. Hernandez,” “Dear Ms. Starling” and “Dear Mr. Thompson” are all appropriate ways to write a cover letter greeting. “To Whom It May Concern” is not.

Always try to personalize a cover letter by addressing it to the person responsible for processing applications for the job you’re seeking. If you happen to know this person on a first-name basis, then a greeting that uses the first name is also acceptable.

If you don’t know the name of the person you should be writing to, make an effort to find out. If you can’t find that info online, simply call the employer and ask. People like to read their own names, and you’re more likely to get a response to a letter addressed to a person than one addressed to an entire company or department.

If you can’t find the name you need, you’ll have to take a more generic approach, like “Dear University of Florida HR Team” or the like. Some writers take a more casual approach by substituting “Greetings” or even “Hello” for the word “Dear,” which may be fine, but you can’t go wrong with “Dear.” Below you’ll find the greeting from our cover letter example.

Dear Professor Wilkinson,

Your first paragraph, the cover letter introduction, is how you make your first impression, and you want to get off to a strong start. Specify the job you’re seeking, and open with a compelling statement about why you excel in your field. 

Cover letters often open with the years of job experience a candidate has. For a career in academia, it may also be a good idea to mention the degree you hold and where you obtained it. Lead with your strengths, and try to fashion a lead that a job recruiter would find irresistible. 

Do not open with “I am writing this letter to,” or “Please consider this letter my application for….” There’s no need to make reference to your letter – just write it!

The introduction from our academic cover letter sample appears below.

The academic part-time MBA lecturer role in the business department at University of Miami would be an ideal fit after my move from UCLA and my recent book series commission.

The middle two or three paragraphs of your letter, the body, must build a persuasive case that you are the right person for the job. Go into greater depth on your employment experience and academic credentials. 

Be specific about what you’ve achieved in past jobs, or mention any special distinctions received as part of your education. Use facts and figures where possible, and see if you can relate an anecdote about a challenge you once faced in your field and how you surmounted it successively.

It’s also helpful to mention the name of the institution you’re applying to and why you want to work there. Avoid writing a one-size-fits-all cover letter that could be sent to anyone, and personalize it for the employer you’re targeting.

Here’s the body section from our academic cover letter sample:

I taught first-year MBA students a broad range of economics courses for seven years at UCLA. After fifteen years of business leadership in finance and technology, gaining my own MBA at the same institution, I switched to a career in academia and gained my teaching qualifications. Imparting knowledge to the next generation of entrepreneurs is as enjoyable as working on any new product or service. My MBA specializations lie in the supply chain and procurement functions in terms of my practical experience, but I also teach courses on P&L management, forecasting, M&A strategy and all aspects of financial planning. I have published two books and over thirty whitepapers on artificial intelligence in business management and I am about to embark on my third book. I would like to be part of an institution where my students can join me on my exploration of this fast-growing area.

The conclusion, your final paragraph, can serve as a wrap-up and a thank you, but it should also include a call to action urging the recipient to respond. You might say that you’re always reachable at the contact info provided, that you look forward to a reply, and that you would be delighted to be invited for an interview. Plant the thought in the reader’s head that s/he should do something as a result of receiving your letter.

Close with a sign-off like “Sincerely,” “All my best” or the like, then add a space and type your name, as shown in the academic cover letter example below. (There is no need to actually sign the letter in electronic correspondence, although you can add a digital signature if you wish.) See the conclusion from our academic cover letter sample below.

I enclose a sample of my published works and some reviews for my books. I always try to teach with real-world examples at the heart of my lessons and speak at 25+ conferences a year on the latest industry developments. I would welcome the opportunity of an interview to explore the position in more detail. Sincerely, Daniela Banks

The reason for writing a cover letter is to establish a personal connection with a hiring manager. So although this is a formal business letter, it should also be somewhat personal. You may choose to discuss your personal reasons for seeking a new job, and you may want to highlight the inner passions that drove you to your field.

You want to write your letter like a real person – not a robot – so avoid cliches, HR-speak and “fluff,” which is language that sounds fancy but really says nothing. Write in a human, friendly, relatable voice.

Imagine that you are the hiring manager receiving this letter. Would you be interested in meeting the person who wrote it? Your letter should exude both competence and confidence, without ever striking an arrogant or presumptuous tone. Try to come off as both professional and likable, bearing in mind that nobody wants to hire someone they don’t like. 

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Typos, misspellings and bad grammar are unacceptable in a cover letter for any field, but especially in academia.
• Do not write a copy-paste letter that could be sent to multiple employers. Each cover letter should be targeted to a specific employer.
• Poor design and formatting can detract in major ways from a well-written letter, so be sure your letter looks great.
• Put yourself in the shoes of the person receiving this letter, and make sure it strikes a professional but relatable tone.

A great looking cover letter is the best way to lure the hiring manager in and make a professional first impression. If you don’t have time to fine-tune your formatting, consider using an expertly-designed cover letter template to make the job quick and easy.

Key takeaways

• A great academic cover letter includes a friendly introduction, name-specific greeting and body section that highlights your accomplishments
• Don’t forget to quantify your achievements and focus on your academic career.
• Check out our adaptable academic cover letter example for more ideas on creating an attractive header.

For more ideas about crafting an academic cover letter, review some of our related education cover letter samples:

• University cover letter sample
• Master’s cover letter example
• Teacher cover letter sample
• Teaching assistant cover letter sample
• Harvard cover letter sample

Best of luck in your academic career!

Free professionally designed templates

Academic cover letter examples

You’ve worked hard and you’ve got some pretty impressive academic achievements under your metaphorical belt. Now you just need to prove it to the recruiter.

Sure, you can outline your studies on your CV, but a cover letter gives you a better chance to provide detailed facts and figures that showcase why you’re perfect for the position.

But if you need some help getting started, study our top tips and academic cover letter examples in the writing guide below.

CV templates 

Academic cover letter example 1

Build your CV now 

Academic cover letter example 2

Academic cover letter example 3

These Academic cover letter examples provide you with some guidance and inspiration for writing a cover letter that gets noticed and ensures your CV will get opened.

But if you really want to master the art of writing a winning cover letter , then follow our step-by-step cove letter writing guide below.

How to write an Academic cover letter

Here’s how to write your own winning Academic cover letter

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

Type the content of your cover letter directly into the email you are sending, or if you are applying via a job board, directly into their messaging system.

The reason for doing this it to ensure that your cover letter gets seen instantly and you can start connecting with the recruiter as soon as they open your message.

If you attach your cover letter as a separate document, the recipient will have to open up the document, which will slow the process down, or make them less likely to even open your cover letter – which could mean your application gets skipped over.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *Academic job role* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Academic cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Academic cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Academic cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Academic cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Hi Jonathan

I would like to express my sincere interest in the Senior Lecturer position you have available at the University of London’s Faculty of Psychology, as advertised on your website. With my 18+ years of experience as a Clinical Psychologist, with a passion for research, I am excited to contribute my pedagogical skills to your institution.

Throughout my 13-year academic journey as a Lecturer at the University of Manchester, I have been deeply committed to both advancing the field of clinical psychology and nurturing the next generation of mental health professionals. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Manchester, where my research focused on cognitive-behavioural interventions for anxiety disorders.

I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations in addressing a wide range of psychological challenges. I previously secured £1M+ grants to support various research projects, constantly received 10 out of 10 evaluations from students for engaging lectures and contributed towards a 20% increase in pass rates.

I am excited about the opportunity to meet you at your earliest convenience to discuss how I could add value to your department.

Kind regards

Martin Maguire  ¦  07777777777  ¦  [email protected]

Hope you’re well. I am thrilled to apply for the position of Sociology Lecturer at Oxford University, as advertised on LinkedIn. As an enthusiastic educator and dedicated sociologist with 10+ years of experience, I am eager to contribute my expertise and passion for sociology to the esteemed academic community at your institution.

With a Ph.D. in Sociology, I have cultivated a deep understanding of sociological theories, research methodologies, and the dynamic social processes that shape our world. Throughout my academic journey, teaching has been both a joy and a calling. As an Assistant Lecturer at the University of London for over five years, I developed and delivered engaging lectures for undergraduate courses, such as Introduction to Sociology and Social Research Methods. I have received a student evaluation rating of 5 out of 5 for course satisfaction, increased average grades by 15%, and obtained £500K in funding sociology-related research during those five years.

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my career aspirations align with your objectives. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Natalie Woods  ¦  07777777777  ¦  [email protected]

Good morning, Adam

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to in response to the University of Birmingham’s advertisement for an Accounting Professor. As a dedicated educator, seasoned accounting professional, and passionate advocate for academic excellence, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise to the esteemed department at your institution.

In my current role as an Associate Professor of Accounting at Durham University for the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of shaping the academic and professional growth of countless students. With a Ph.D. in Accounting, I possess a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of accounting. My pedagogical approach underlines critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world applications of accounting principles. During my tenure at Durham University, I have mentored 50+ doctoral scholars in their conference presentations and publications, received four awards for teaching, and contributed to a 15% increase in the pass rates and overall performance.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your department and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Laura Stanley  ¦  07777777777  ¦  [email protected]

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Academic job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!

Cover letter for a faculty position

Criteria for success.

• Demonstrate scientific accomplishments and scholastic achievement.
• Clearly define the vision and impact of your future research program.
• Differentiate yourself from colleagues, e.g. your advisors and other faculty candidates.
• Establish what your niche will be in the department.
• Clearly display excitement and passion.
• Keep the cover letter to 1 to 2 pages . The optional second page may contain a list of publications/presentations or a list of references.

The faculty cover letter, as with cover letters for other positions , is the first part of your application to be read by the Faculty Search Committee. Therefore, the primary purpose of a faculty cover letter is to summarize your application by connecting your Research and Teaching Statements, CV, and references.

Analyze your audience

Knowing what the Faculty Search Committee is looking for will help you tailor your application.

Searches for new hires may focus on specific research areas ( e.g.  nanomaterials, systems engineering, therapeutic science, renewable energy). In this case, you should customize your application to highlight your work in the specified research area.

Alternatively, departments may concentrate solely on the best candidates regardless of pre-selected scientific disciplines, in which case you have more flexibility in how you present yourself.

In addition, academic employment opportunities differ based on whether positions are tenure-tracked or require teaching, and the type of institution (university, medical school, research institute). Research the responsibilities associated with each of these positions, and include only information relevant to the specific position – don’t waste valuable space on irrelevant experiences.

Structure of a Cover Letter

• Critical contact information: name, degree, current position, email, and phone number
• Your professional profile or webpage ( e.g.  LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Academia.edu)
• Date, department, and university name and address .
• Salutation – “Dear [Faculty Search Committee / Department Head],”
• Brief introduction – Display excitement. State specific terms related to the faculty position, department and university. For example, if you are applying to a “cluster” hire that includes faculty across multiple departments, such as Systems and Synthetic Biology , then state this directly. State the position for which you are applying ( i.e. tenure-track appointment, assistant faculty position).
• Strong opening statement – Declare your targeted research areas. Establish the foundation on which you will base your research. Emphasize novel interfaces and applications within your proposed research.
• Scientific achievements – Summarize successes highlighted in your CV that demonstrate the breadth and depth of scientific expertise. Demonstrate your productivity, as well as key scientific or technical strengths, with supporting details.
• Motivation & impact – State areas of expertise and indicate specific aims of your future research program. Clearly describe how these aims align with current research initiatives in the department or university.
• Teaching & mentorship – Highlight your experience in the classroom and as a research mentor, and service in the profession or community.
• Wrap-up – “Additional documents are enclosed. Please feel free to contact me if supplemental information is required.”
• Follow-up & thank you – Be clear that you expect to hear back (e.g. “I look forward to your reply”). Thank the committee for their time and consideration.
• Closure – Maintain professionalism. “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” and “Kindest regards” are appropriate closing phrases. Include your electronic signature.

Advocate for yourself

The faculty cover letter emphasizes your past and present academic career, while promoting your future potential. For many of us, exuding confidence in an open letter of introduction is challenging, but you have to believe in yourself before you can convince others to believe in you.

State your pedigree

In academia, the institutions and departments you have attended and the advisors for whom you have worked do matter. State this information in Scientific Achievements . Inform your audience if you have co-taught classes with distinguished professors in Teaching & Mentorship or emphasize existing collaborations in the Motivation & Impact section.

Quantify your productivity

Academia identifies scientific contributions by the following conventions: number of publications, quality, and impact. In addition to research articles, noteworthy contributions may also include opinion articles, book chapters, or your role as a journal reviewer. Emphasize alternative sources of scientific communication (and funding) such as distinguished merit-based fellowships.

Engineering students are likely to be co-authors of patents; state this information.

Describe your future potential

Beyond reiterating your past accomplishments, you must also show that you are prepared to handle the future challenges of being a Principal Investigator. By far, the most difficult paragraph to write in the faculty cover letter focuses on the Motivation & Impact of your future research program. Clearly articulate the vision of your future research program and describe how your leadership will facilitate an environment of scientific and teaching excellence. Demonstrate expert understanding of your field, and confidently state your qualifications as a leader in research, an educator, and a citizen of the university.

Define your niche

Your application will be one out of hundreds. You must differentiate yourself and your research program from other candidates, as well as previous or current advisor(s). Ask yourself what you will do that is unique compared to any of your past or future colleagues. How will you fit uniquely into the department — what is your niche?

The Motivation & impact section provides an opportunity to concisely define your niche. State specific aims of your proposed research that expand upon the department’s core strengths while simultaneously diversifying the university’s research portfolio ( e.g.  emerging research fields, state-of-the art technologies, novel applications). Carefully consider research centers, core facilities, affiliated institutes or medical centers at the university. In many cases, campus- or state-wide research initiatives may complement your research program.

Finally, take advantage of any experiences you’ve had outside of academia. Have you previously worked in industry or consulted? Would these former and future relationships lead to additional funding for your lab? If so, suggest more unusual avenues of additional funding. It may no longer suffice to focus primarily on traditional grants sponsored by government agencies. Think of creative alternatives and diversify your future financial portfolio. This, in turn, differentiates your research program from colleagues.

Finally, you will more than likely apply to multiple departments and universities. Therefore, modify your niche for every application!

Make important information concise and identifiable

Again, your application is one out of hundreds. Helping the Faculty Search Committee easily identify important information in your cover letter will only improve your chances of moving forward in the hiring process. A faculty cover letter should not exceed 1 page , so you must present your qualifications to the Faculty Search Committee in a concise manner.

Maximize impact of words. Use verbs that illustrate impact (“led,” “developed,” “innovated”) over verbs that make you sound passive (“participated”). Aim for verbs that are more specific to the actual contribution you made.

Minimize redundancy and wordiness. For every sentence, challenge yourself to remove as many words as possible without changing the meaning of the sentence.

Use keywords. Keywords cited by grant-funding agencies, easily recognizable by any faculty member, should be included in relevant sections of your faculty cover letter. Using field-specific vocabulary may demonstrate your understanding of the field and the department’s needs, but be aware that Faculty Search Committees with mixed expertise may require simpler vocabulary and/or explanations accessible to a broader audience.

Maintain abundant white space. In terms of formatting, inclusion of white space is easy on the eye while providing a precise transition from one section to the next.

Devote time!

Crafting your faculty application is a process that will continue indefinitely.

• Devote time to your faculty application, working in consistent increments over the course of weeks not days.
• Take time to brainstorm, reflect, write, edit, critique, and revise accordingly.
• Seek guidance in terms of technical content, emphasis of soft skills, as well as grammatical improvements and aesthetics from colleagues and friends.

Above all else, remember that the faculty application is a creative process. Enjoy it!

This content was adapted from from an article originally created by the  MIT Biological Engineering Communication Lab .

Resources and Annotated Examples

Annotated example 1.

Example Faculty Cover Letter 887 KB

Annotated Example 2

Example Faculty CV 85 KB

Cover letter examples

Isabella has outlined her extensive expertise and professional journey in the California cover letter template. With a deep understanding of nutrition, she provides expert guidance to promote health and well-being.

"I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Lecturer position in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at London University, as recently advertised on the university’s employment portal. "

Table of contents

How to Write an Academic Cover Letter

If you're an academic seeking guidance on the importance of a cover letter and how to write one, you're in the right place. Having an academic cover letter is a crucial step in your application process. It's your chance to showcase your qualifications, research, and teaching experience and present yourself as a suitable candidate.

This guide will walk you through the key elements of creating a good academic cover letter, offering practical tips and examples to help convey your suitability for the role. Whether you're applying for a faculty position, a research role, or a postdoctoral fellowship , a good cover letter can significantly impact your application, setting you apart from other candidates and capturing the attention of search committees.

Customise this academic cover letter example

Academic cover letter example.

Isabella Bennett, an academic and accomplished professional selected the California cover letter template to showcase her expertise. She seamlessly combines teaching, research, and her education in nutrition and STEM fields, creating an academic cover letter that will get her noticed. Check out the matching academic CV example.

What to include in an academic cover letter? 

A good academic cover letter, like a good CV , should always include your contact information at the top, similar to the format of a professional business letter. Include your name, location, phone number, and email address.

1. Intro: How to start an academic cover letter 

The introduction of your academic cover letter should be engaging and immediately convey the purpose of your application. Begin by addressing the hiring committee, mentioning the specific position you are applying for, and briefly stating why you are an ideal candidate. This section should be concise and to the point. For more tips, refer to how to start a cover letter.

Academic advisor cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in the Academic Advisor position at the London School of Business, as advertised. With 5 years of experience in student counselling and a passion for supporting academic success, I am eager to contribute to your institution’s mission of guiding and mentoring students towards their educational goals.

Assistant professor cover letter example

I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in Economics at Brightstone University, as advertised. As a recent PhD graduate from Eastford University, with a focus on Macroeconomics, I am eager to bring my passion for economic research and my dedication to teaching and research to your esteemed department.

Lecturer cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in the Lecturer position in Psychology at London University, as advertised. With 10 years of experience in teaching and research in psychology, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s mission of academic excellence and student engagement

Use the above as a guide for any academic positions, including but not limited to:

Senior Research Fellow

Research Associate

PhD Studentship

Research Assistant

Research Tutor.

For additional examples, explore our extensive collection of cover letter examples.

2. Body: How to write the body of an academic cover letter 

The body of your cover letter should provide a detailed account of your qualifications, focusing on your research, teaching experience, and any relevant achievements. This section is usually divided into two to three paragraphs, each highlighting different aspects of your professional background.

In my current role at Manchester University, I have successfully advised a diverse student population on academic planning, career development, and personal growth. My strong interpersonal skills and commitment to student advocacy allow me to foster meaningful relationships with students, helping them navigate challenges and make informed decisions. I am impressed by London Business School’s dedication to student excellence. My background in student affairs and counselling aligns well with the needs of your advising team. I am excited about the opportunity to support students and contribute to its vibrant academic community.

During my doctoral studies, I conducted innovative research on economic growth and income inequality, resulting in several publications in renowned journals such as the Journal of Economic Perspectives and Economic Inquiry. My dissertation, “The Dynamics of Income Inequality and Economic Growth in Developing Economies,” received the Eastford University Best Dissertation Award for its significant contributions to the field. I have experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Econometrics. In my role as a teaching assistant and later as an adjunct lecturer at Eastford University, I developed and delivered comprehensive course materials that fostered a deep understanding of complex economic theories. My ability to engage students and promote critical thinking was consistently reflected in my high student evaluation scores and positive feedback I am particularly drawn to Brightstone University because of its commitment to research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s academic community through my research, teaching, and service. I am particularly interested in collaborating with faculty members on projects related to economic development and policy analysis, and I am eager to engage with students through mentorship and advising.

In my current role at Greenfield Institute, I have developed and taught courses in cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and research methods, receiving positive feedback from students for my enthusiasm and ability to create an inclusive learning environment. My commitment to student-centred learning and evidence-based teaching practices aligns well with the teaching goals at London University. I am impressed by the University’s dedication to teaching innovation and research excellence and believe my teaching experience and passion for psychology make me a strong candidate for this position. I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to your department and contribute to its academic community.

There is no one-size-fits-all cover letter strategy, but for more tips, check out our article on cover letter structure.

3. Conclusion: How to end an academic cover letter 

Similar to the above, this section is of equal importance. It should summarise your interest in the position, reiterate your enthusiasm, and thank the committee for considering your application. In addition, consider mentioning any enclosed documents such as your CV, references, or perhaps a separate document for additional publications, and express your willingness to provide further information if need be. For more tips, refer to how to professionally sign off and end a cover letter.

In conclusion, I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the Department of Biology at Cambridge University. I am confident that my research background, teaching experience, and commitment to community engagement make me a strong candidate for the Assistant Professor position. Thank you for considering my application. I have enclosed my CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.

Looking for a professional academic cover letter?

Key takeaways .

Customise the letter for the specific job and institution.

Use formal language and maintain a professional tone throughout.

Follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Emphasise relevant qualifications, experiences, and skills.

Provide concrete examples of academic achievements and research contributions.

Explain how your research aligns with the institution’s goals and current projects.

Highlight any teaching experience and your teaching philosophy.

Discuss your future research plans and how they fit within the institution.

Mention why you are interested and how you can contribute to it.

Ensure the letter is free from grammatical and typographical errors.

Next steps?  

If you're unsure about the layout or content of your CV, browse our extensive collection of cover letter templates and CV examples for inspiration. Alternatively, you can seek help from a professional through our CV Writing Service , which also offers LinkedIn profile optimisation.

Are academic and PhD cover letters the same? 

Academic and PhD cover letters are similar but not identical. Both should detail your qualifications and research experience, but a PhD cover letter might focus more on your dissertation work and its relevance to the position. Academic cover letters often address teaching experience and fit with the department.

How do I write a cover letter for an academic application? 

Begin with a strong opening stating the position you're applying for. Follow with a brief overview of your academic background and research achievements, then align your expertise with the job requirements. Conclude with your enthusiasm for the position and your readiness for an interview.

What is the best academic cover letter template? 

A good academic cover letter template includes: an introduction specifying the position you're applying for, a brief summary of your qualifications and research interests, a description of how your experience aligns with the job requirements, and a conclusion expressing enthusiasm for the role and your availability for an interview.

How do you write a cover letter for an academic paper?

In an academic paper cover letter, briefly introduce your paper, its main contributions, and its relevance to the journal. Mention why the paper fits the journal’s scope and highlight any novel aspects. End with your contact information and your hope for a positive review.

How long should an academic cover letter be? 

An academic cover letter should be no more than two pages long. Aim for clarity and conciseness to make a strong impression without overwhelming the reader. Refer to our guide that delves into the ideal cover letter length .

Does a cover letter benefit someone in academics?

Yes, a cover letter is crucial in academics as it highlights your suitability for the position, complements your CV, and provides context for your achievements and research interests.

Is a cover letter required for academic positions? 

Yes, a cover letter is typically required for academic positions. It provides an opportunity to discuss your qualifications in more detail and explain why you’re a good fit for the role and institution.

Do you need a cover letter for a research position? 

Yes, a cover letter is important for research positions. It allows you to explain your research background, how it aligns with the position, and why you are interested in the role, making your application more compelling.

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How to Write an Academic Cover Letter With Examples

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Requred Job Application Materials

Submitting your application.

When you are applying for a faculty position at a college or university, your  cover letter  will differ significantly from the standard business cover letter.

Your cover letter may be reviewed by Human Resources department staff to determine if you meet the basic qualifications for the job. If it does, it will be forwarded to a search committee comprised mostly of faculty members and academic deans. 

These individuals will be accustomed to reading more lengthy academic cover letters and  resumes  or curriculum vitae (CV) than would be customary in the business world. They will also often be more interested in the philosophical foundations for your work than the typical business recruiter.

Kelly Miller / The Balance

Tips for Writing an Academic Cover Letter

Your initial challenge will be to pass through the Human Resources screening. Review each of the required qualifications included in the job announcement and compose statements containing evidence that you possess as many of the skills, credentials, knowledge, and experiences listed as possible. 

Address as many of the preferred qualifications as possible. 

Give concrete examples to support your assertions about your strengths. 

Your faculty reviewers will typically have an interest in your philosophy and approach to teaching and research within your discipline. They will also be evaluating how your background fits with the type of institution where they work.

Research the faculty in your target department to assess their orientation and expertise. Emphasize points of intersection between your philosophy and the prevalent departmental philosophy.

If you possess traditionally valued areas of expertise that are not already represented by the current faculty, make sure to point those strengths out in your cover letter. It's important to tailor your letter to the orientation of the college and adjust the mix of emphasis on teaching and research based on the expectations in that setting. 

Colleges will typically want to hire new faculty who are passionate about their current research and not resting on past research credits.

Describe a current project with some detail and express enthusiasm for continuing such work. 

Try to do the same with any evolving teaching interests. 

Highlight any grants and funding you have received to undertake your research activities. Incorporate any awards or recognition which you have received for your teaching or research activities. Some text should also be devoted to other contributions to the college communities where you worked, such as committee work, advising, and collaborations with other departments.

Your cover letter should be written in the same basic format as a business cover letter. An academic cover letter is typically two pages compared to a single page for non-academic letters.

Here’s an example of the appropriate format for a cover letter and guidelines for formatting your letters.

Academic Cover Letter Example

You can use this sample as a model to write an academic cover letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

Academic Cover Letter Example #1 (Text Version)

Robin Applicant 123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345 555-555.5555 robin.applicant@email.com

April 5, 2021

Dr. Sylvia Lee Chair, English Department Search Committee Acme College 123 Business Rd. Charlotte, NC 28213

Dear Dr. Sylvia Lee,

I am writing to apply for the position of assistant professor of English with an emphasis in nineteenth-century American literature that you advertised in the MLA Job Information List. I am a Dean’s Fellow and Ph.D. candidate at XYZ University, currently revising the final chapter of my dissertation, and expecting to graduate in May I am confident that my teaching experience and my research interests make me an ideal candidate for your open position.

Over the past five years, I have taught a variety of English courses. I have taught a number of American literature survey courses, as well as writing courses, including technical writing and first-year writing. I have extensive experience working with ESL students, as well as students with a variety of learning disabilities, including dyslexia and dysgraphia, and disabilities like ADD and ADHD. I pride myself on creating a classroom environment that accommodates the needs of my students while still promoting a high level of critical thought and writing skills. Some of my most satisfying experiences as a teacher have come from helping struggling students to grasp difficult concepts, through a combination of individual conferences, class activities, and group discussion. I know I would thrive as a teacher in your college, due to your belief in small classroom size and individualized support for students.

Not only does my teaching experience suit the needs of your school and department, but my research interests also fit perfectly with your description of the ideal candidate. My dissertation project, “Ferns and Leaves: Nineteenth-Century Female Authorial Space,” examines the rise and development of American female authors in the 1840s and 1850s, with a particular focus on patterns of magazine publication. I argue that, rather than being submissive to the requirements of the editor or publisher, female authors, in fact, developed a more transparently reciprocal relationship between themselves and their readers than previously has been assumed. I apply recent print-culture and book-history theory to my readings of novels, magazine articles, letters, and diary entries by various female authors, with a particular focus on Sara Willis (known by her pseudonym Fanny Fern). I plan to develop my dissertation into a book manuscript and continue to research the role of female writers in antebellum magazine culture, with a particular focus on the rise and influence of female magazine editors on literary culture.

My research interests have both shaped and been shaped by my recent teaching experiences. Last spring, I developed and taught a course on the history of print culture in America. I combined readings on theory and literature that addressed issues of print with visits to local historical museums and archives. My students conducted in-depth studies on particular texts (magazines, newspapers, novels) for their final papers. I believe my interdisciplinary teaching style, particularly my emphasis on material culture, would fit in well with the interdisciplinary nature of your English department.

I am therefore confident that my teaching experience, my skill in working with ESL and LD students, and my research interests all make me an excellent candidate for the assistant professor of English position at ABC College. I have attached my curriculum vitae and the two requested sample publications. I would be happy to send you any additional materials such as letters of reference, teaching evaluations, and past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you at either the MLA or C19 conference, or anywhere else at your convenience. Thank you so much for your consideration; I look forward to hearing from you.

Robin Applicant (hard copy letter)

Robin Applicant

Academic Cover Letter Example #2 (Text Version)

Betty Applicant 567 North Street, Boston, MA 02108 555-555.555 betty.applicant@email.com

Dr. Robert Smith Chair, Department of Biology Acme University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Dr. Smith,

I am writing to apply for the position of Assistant Professor of Biology with a focus on molecular biology at XYZ University, as advertised in the March issue of Science. I am currently a postdoctoral fellow at the University of XYZ in the Department of Molecular Biology, working under the advisement of Professor Linda Smith. I am confident that my research interests and teaching experience make me an ideal candidate for your open position.

My current research project, which is an expansion on my dissertation, “[insert title here],” involves [insert research project here]. I have published my dissertation findings in Science Journal and am in the processing of doing the same with my findings from my current research. The laboratory resources at XYZ University would enable me to expand my research to include [insert further research plans here] and seek further publication.

Beyond my successes as a researcher (including five published papers and my current paper in process), I have had extensive experience teaching a variety of biology courses. As a graduate student at Science University, I served as a teaching assistant and guest lecturer for both biology and chemistry introductory courses and won the university award for outstanding teacher’s assistant. As a postdoctoral fellow at the University of ABC, I have had the opportunity to teach Introduction to Biology as well as a graduate-level course, Historicizing Molecular Biology. In every class, I strive to include a blend of readings, media, lab work, and discussion to actively engage students with the material. I would love the opportunity to bring my award-winning lesson planning and teaching skills to your biology department.

I am confident that my research interests and experience combined with my teaching skills make me an excellent candidate for the Assistant Professor of Biology position at XYZ University. I have attached my curriculum vitae, three recommendations, and the two requested sample publications. I would be happy to send you any additional materials such as teaching evaluations or past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you at the ASBMB conference or anywhere else at your convenience. Thank you so much for your consideration; I look forward to hearing from you.

Betty Applicant (hard copy letter)

Betty Applicant

It’s important to submit all your application materials in the format requested by the college or university. You may be asked to email, mail, or apply online via the institution’s applicant tracking system.

You may be required to provide references with your application, so be prepared to submit a list of references. The institution may also request transcripts, teaching evaluations, and writing samples.

Send only what is requested. There's no need to include information that the institution hasn't ask for.

However, you can offer to provide additional materials like writing samples, syllabi, and  letters of recommendation  in the last paragraph of your letter.

Follow the instructions in the job posting for submitting your application. It should specify what format the college wants to receive.

Here are some examples of what you may be asked to include with your cover letter and resume or CV:

• A cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for three references.
• A cover letter (PDF format) of interest indicating your qualifications and reason for application, Curriculum Vitae (PDF format), and a minimum of three professional references, including phone and email contact information.
• A letter of interest, a Curriculum Vitae, a teaching vision statement, a research vision statement that specifically indicates how you would interact with or collaborate with other department faculty, and three references.
• A cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for three references. Please upload these as ONE document in RTF, DOC or PDF format.
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8 Professional Academic Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your academic cover letter must immediately highlight your most significant achievements. Showcase the research or projects that align closely with the position's requirements. Demonstrate your potential contribution to the department and the institution. Ensure your passion for teaching and scholarship shines through every word.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Academic Advisor

High School Academic

College Academic

Grad School Academic

Cover letter guide.

Academic Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Academic Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Crafting an academic cover letter can be a stumbling block, especially when you're already deep into job applications and realize it's a required piece of the puzzle. This isn't just a repeat of your resume; it's your chance to spotlight a shining professional triumph and weave a compelling narrative around it. Forget the clichés—your cover letter must exude formality without being mundane, all while fitting neatly on a single page. Let's unlock the secrets to a cover letter that leaves a lasting impression.

• Making excellent use of job-winning real-life professional cover letters;
• Writing the first paragraphs of your academic cover letter to get attention and connect with the recruiters - immediately;
• Single out your most noteworthy achievement (even if it's outside your career);
• Get a better understanding of what you must include in your academic cover letter to land the job.

Let the power of Enhancv's AI work for you: create your academic cover letter by uploading your resume.

If the academic isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

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Academic cover letter example

Carter Andrade

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Highlighting Relevant Achievements: The cover letter effectively showcases past accomplishments, such as reducing billing processing time by 30% and billing errors by 20%, which directly relate to the Billing Manager role and demonstrate the candidate's relevant experience and success in process optimization.
• Focus on Process Improvement: By emphasizing a hands-on approach to revamping outdated procedures, the writer displays a commitment to enhancing financial workflows, an essential skill for a Billing Manager tasked with maintaining efficient billing operations.
• Leadership Skills: The candidate mentions leading a team during a cross-departmental initiative, pointing to strong leadership and team management abilities, which are crucial for a managerial position responsible for overseeing the billing department.

Five tips on formatting your academic cover letter

Do you want to make a good impression on recruiters and, at the same time, follow the best industry advice on writing your academic cover letter?

Make sure to include the following:

• Header and Salutation;
• Introductory paragraph;
• Body paragraph;
• Closing paragraph;
• Signature (this one is up to you).

Remember to use the same modern, simple font for your academic cover letter as you did for your resume (e.g. Lato, Rubik, etc.)

Ensure your academic cover letter is single-spaced and is wrapped around a one-inch margin, like in our cover letter templates .

Once completed, use our cover letter builder to export your academic cover letter in the best format to keep your information intact - PDF.

At the end of the day, your academic cover letter won't be assessed by the Applicant Tracker System (ATS) software, but by the recruiters. Your information should thus be legible, organized, and follow a structured logic.

The top sections on a academic cover letter

• Header: This section includes your contact information, the date, and the recipient's details, ensuring that your cover letter appears professional and reaches the correct person.
• Opening Greeting: A formal salutation addresses the hiring committee or specific individual by name, demonstrating that you have researched the institution and are personalizing your application.
• Introduction: Briefly introduces who you are, your current academic status, and the position you are applying for, setting the stage for why you are a strong fit for the role.
• Academic Achievements and Experience: Highlights your relevant educational background, research accomplishments, teaching experience, and any publications, tailored to the academic position to showcase your qualifications and alignment with the job.
• Closing Paragraph: This is where you reiterate your interest in the position, mention your availability for an interview, and thank the recipient for considering your application, leaving a professional and respectful impression.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Research expertise in the specified field: Demonstrates the ability to contribute to the academic community through original research.
• Teaching experience and pedagogical skills: Showcases the capability to educate and mentor students effectively.
• Publications and scholarly work: Indicates a track record of contributing to the body of knowledge in the field.
• Grants and funded research experience: Reflects success in obtaining financial support for research, which is crucial for many academic institutions.
• Collaboration and interdisciplinary work: Highlights the ability to work across disciplines, which is increasingly valued in academia for its potential to foster innovative research.
• Service to the academic community: Demonstrates a commitment to contributing to the functioning and governance of the institution through committee work, peer review, or other service roles.

How to personalize your academic cover letter greeting

Before you start writing your academic cover letter, take the time to find out who is recruiting for the role.

Search for the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or the corporate website to address them personally in your academic cover letter salutation .

What if you can't find out who's recruiting for the role?

Always aim to avoid the very impersonal "Dear Sir/Madam" - instead, opt out for "Dear HR Team" or "Dear Hiring Manager" to make a better first impression.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Committee,
• Dear [Department] Selection Committee,
• Dear Professor [Last Name],
• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear Search Committee Chair,
• Dear [University/College] Faculty,

What to include in those first two sentences, or your academic cover letter introduction

Have you ever wondered what the best way is to present your profile in the academic cover letter introduction ?

There's no right or wrong answer if you're being concise and authentic to yourself.

Some professionals start their academic cover letter by:

• congratulating the company - focusing on something impressive, whether that's an award, an industry-leading project, or a key event;
• aligning their passion for the field or industry with the job - if you're enthusiastic about what you do, you'd thus grow your skill set and value as a professional.

That one achievement in your academic cover letter body

The lengthiest part of your academic cover letter is the body.

Within the next three to six middle paragraphs, present yourself as the best candidate for the role .

How can you do that without retelling your whole professional resume?

Select one key achievement that covers job-crucial skills and technologies (and is memorable).

Within the body of your academic cover letter, aim to tell the story of how you achieved your success. Also, write about how this would help out your potential team.

Finishing off your academic cover letter with what matters most

So far, you've done a fantastic job in tailoring your academic cover letter for the role and recruiter.

Your final opportunity to make a good impression is your closing paragraph.

And, no, a "Sincerely yours" just won't do, as it sounds too vague and impersonal.

End your academic cover letter with the future in mind.

So, if you get this opportunity, what do you plan to achieve? Be as specific, as possible, of what value you'd bring to the organization.

You could also thank recruiters for their interest in your profile and prompt for follow-up actions (and organizing your first interview).

The zero experience academic cover letter: shifting the focus to your unique value

Don't worry if you have no conventional professional experience . Within your whole experience, there's plenty more you can write about in your academic cover letter.

Take, for example, your biggest achievement or award - dedicate your cover letter body to describe it and the job-relevant skills you've learned.

Your professional ambitions could also take center stage. Describe what you plan on achieving in the next five to ten years and the efforts you're making towards your dreams.

Key takeaways

Within this Enhancv guide, we've provided you with plenty of advice and inspiration on writing your academic cover letter:

• Always make sure your academic cover letter is tailored to the role you're applying for to make a good impression on recruiters;
• In your academic cover letter include a header (with your name, the role you're applying for, date, and contact details) and an introduction of up to two sentences that highlight your key accomplishment or why you'd fit the role;
• Focus your academic cover letter body on one sole achievement through your career and all the valuable lessons, skills, and know-how you've learned (that are relevant to the role);
• Ensure your academic cover letter closing statement isn't generic and includes either a call to action or a promise;
• If you lack professional experience, shift recruiters' focus to a relevant achievement (thanks to your academic or versatile experience) or toward your dreams and goals for professional growth.

Academic cover letter examples

Explore additional academic cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

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• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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Academic Cover Letter Sample

An academic cover letter is a perfect way to market yourself for opportunities that relate to your true passion, education. However, it isn't very different from other cover letters, so don't let it intimidate you! 

Here’s what you’ll learn in this article about writing a great academic cover letter:

• How to format your cover letter
• How to write a heading
• How to write the date and Company details 
• How to write the greetings
• How to write the cover letter body 
• How to write a closing statement
• How to highlight your skills
• How to research a company

Sometimes, even the most motivated and distinguished academics find it difficult to write a cover letter for an academic job. This is why an online cover letter writing service is a good way to learn how to write an effective cover letter on Skillhub or hire professionals to help you with write my cover letter request.

In this article, you’ll learn how to write the perfect cover letter and land your dream job.

Cover Letter for an Academic [Example]

Writing a good cover letter is crucial to getting noticed. Here’s an academic job cover letter example that’s bound to get attention.

[Your name]

[Your address]

[Your phone and email]

[Today’s Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

[Company Address]

[Company City, State]

Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms./] [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I write in reference to the Assistant Professor role that has opened up at your university for this coming academic year. As I have experience teaching courses on both undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as experience working with industry partners through consultancy work at my former role, I would like to bring forth my application for this role.

Responsibilities I undertook in my role included:

• Leading research project teams of business, industry, and academic stakeholders to achieve common research goals.
• Convening regular team meetings (monthly) to discuss progress against deliverables, issues that may impact the project plan, action items that need to be completed, and upcoming events/activities.
• Providing regular updates on the project via presentations to stakeholders, Wufoo reports, and email correspondence.
• Collaborating with others in cross-functional teams to achieve common goals.

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I hope that we can set up a time to connect soon so that I can share more about myself and give you an opportunity to ask me any questions that you might have.

I appreciate your time and look forward to connecting with you.

[Your Name]

Academic Cover Letter Template

A cover letter template includes: 

• Your personal information
• Hiring manager’s information
• Body (3-4) paragraphs
• Closing statement

Here's how to format a modern cover letter:

• Align: Left-Align, no justification
• Font: Arial, Times New Roman, Verdana
• Line spacing: 1.15
• Margins: 1 inch
• Spacing: Double-space between paragraphs

Ultimate Guide on How to Write an Academic Cover Letter

Not all academics are well versed in writing self-promotional material, i.e., a cover letter. Having a guide to refer to takes away the stress and mistakes that lead to a poor cover letter.

We understand how important a great cover letter is when applying for a job, and we'll help you create that significant first impression. Don't lose out on a wonderful opportunity; contact our cover letter writers today, and a cover letter will be waiting for you. 

In the next section, you’ll learn how to format your cover letter. If you need professional resume help, resume writing services near me are a solution! They are in Houston, Chicago, NYC, Dallas, Seattle, San Diego, Phoenix, Austin, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington DC, Charlotte, San Antonio, Columbus, Kansas, Minneapolis, Indianapolis, Philadelphia, Jacksonville, Detroit. We are near you and always ready to give you a hand!

Use the Right Formatting for your Cover Letter

When it comes to cover letters, the format is important because cover letter formatting can determine how much attention your cover letter will get. 

If you look at good academic cover letter samples, they contain: 

• An introduction
• Your background
• Why you want to work for the company
• Your availability for an interview and contact information

Cover Letter Heading

A good cover letter heading is the difference between your job application being taken seriously or ignored. It’s also a great way to get the attention of a hiring manager and make a good impression.

The example below shows just how easy it is to write one.

Cover Letter Sample for Academic [Heading]

[Your contact]

Let’s take a look at the next cover letter example

Date and Company Details on Cover Letter

A cover letter for academic position must include the date and company details to inform the hiring manager that the letter is meant for them. 

Proceed by writing the date under your name, followed by a space. Then, list the hiring manager's name, the company’s name, and address. 

Example Cover Letter Academic [Date and Company Details]

Here’s an academic cover letter example you can apply when writing your letter:

University of Maryland

2433 Washburn Street

Baltimore, Maryland

Cover Letter Greeting

A good cover letter greeting helps establish you as a good candidate and shows that you’re knowledgeable about the employer. A suitable greeting would be Dear [Mr./Ms./Mrs.] [Hiring Manager’s Surname] if you know the hiring manager's name or Dear Sales Management Team if you don’t know their name. It’s advisable to avoid the To Whom It May Concern greeting as it's impersonal.

Cover Letter Example for Academic [Greeting]

An example of a good cover letter greeting would be Dear Mr. Smith,  Dear Mrs. Winslow, or Dear Product Development Team. 

Let’s take a look at more academic cover letter examples below.

What to include in an Academic Cover Letter [Body]

The letter should provide an overview of your qualifications that are appropriate for the position being applied for. The body should also highlight your accomplishments and why you think the company would benefit from hiring you. Conclude by restating your interest and your contact details.

For example, take a look at the sample academic cover letter below.

Academic Cover Letter Sample [Body]

I am writing to apply for the position of [job title] at [name of company]. I was drawn to your position because [briefly state reasons for applying for this specific job]. After looking over the website, it's clear that you are a dynamic organization with a firm focus in [insert field]. As an applicant, I am confident that my strengths and experience would be a valuable asset to your team; thus, I hope you will consider me for this position. 

Closing Paragraph for Cover letter

How you end the cover letter is just as important as how you begin. It shouldn't be impersonal, rude, or demanding. You have to show that you want to be part of a team and aren’t just looking for a paycheck. That could be the difference between getting hired or ignored.

The academic cover letter example below is a good start.

Academic cover letter example [Closing]

It pays to write a strong ending. Here’s how:

With my skills combined with my enthusiasm for the position, I am confident that I will be a valuable member of your staff.

Please let me know if you have any questions or want to schedule an interview.

Thank you for considering me.

Let’s look at the next cover letter academic example.

Describe Your Skills and Abilities

If you're looking for a job, an applicant tracking system (ATS) optimization cannot be ignored. Employers use ATS to scan your resume for keywords. The better you are at including the correct skills and keywords, the higher you'll rank in an employer's applicant pool when they search for prospective employees. 

Here’s a list of soft and hard skills from an academic position cover letter sample.

Soft Skills

• Content Development 
• Team Management and Collaboration

Hard skills

• Special Education Curriculum Design and Instruction 
• Psychology Principles and Practices 
• Adult Learning and Facilitation Methodologies

Look Into The Company

The hiring manager will always look for specific keywords in your application to see if you are fit for the role. The best way to determine these keywords is to look at the job description. This will give you a good idea of what the company is looking for. This way, you can tailor your application to the position. 

Here’s an example of keywords that might capture a hiring manager's attention. 

• Communication
• Published articles
• Writing reports

Important Points to Remember

A well-crafted cover letter is essential in getting you an interview and, ultimately, a job offer. And small mistakes can ruin those chances. There’s a lot to focus on when writing a letter but let's recap some of the key components of a great academic cover letter: 

• Properly format the cover letter
• Add your personal information
• Directly address the hiring manager
• Have a strong opening statement
• Highlight your skills and qualification for the position
• Prove that you'd be an asset to the company
• Have a strong closing statement

As you can see, writing an academic cover letter can be challenging, but with the proper guidance, you can craft a letter that lands you your dream job. For more tips, tricks, and help writing the perfect resume and cover letter, check out our affordable resume writing service and start getting more job offers!

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