Visiting Assistant Professor in Screenwriting

Department of Cinematic Arts

The University of Iowa

The Department of Cinematic Arts at the University of Iowa invites applications for a 75%-time Visiting Assistant Professor in Screenwriting for the 2026-2027 academic year. Primary responsibilities include teaching undergraduate introductory courses, as well as intermediate and advanced screenwriting workshops, television writing, and special topics courses (video game writing, documentary writing, etc.). The teaching load for this position is 3 courses per semester. The start date of this position is August 19, 2026. Appointments are for one academic year and may be renewable up to a maximum of three years total, depending on Department teaching need and College approval.

The Screenwriting program at Iowa has thrived since its inauguration in 2019 and both builds upon and enhances the University of Iowa’s known reputation as a center for Creative Writing, as well as Cinema and the Performing Arts. The Department of Cinematic Arts offers BA degrees in Cinema and Screenwriting currently serving over 500 majors and minors, as well as serving hundreds of non-majors through General Education courses. We also have graduate programs in Film & Video Production (MFA) and Film Studies (MA and PhD).

To apply for this position, visit the University of Iowa jobs website at http://jobs.uiowa.edu/faculty, requisition #75911. Applications must be submitted through the University’s online application system and must include the following:

• Letter of interest


• CV highlighting screenwriting accomplishments


• An original screenwriting sample of ca. 10-20 pages


• Teaching portfolio (two sample syllabi; relevant teaching evaluations if available, etc.)


• Contact information for three references

Review of applications begin on April 24, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.

Questions can be directed to the search committee chair, Dean Bakopoulos, at cbakopoulos@uiowa.edu.

WORK AUTHORIZATION INFORMATION

For H-1B petitions subject to the September 19, 2025 Presidential Proclamation, please note that the department will not cover the $100,000 payment associated with H-1B sponsorship, either at the time of hire or for international travel purposes. We encourage impacted individuals to explore alternative pathways for work authorization. Our team is available to help identify options that may be suitable for your situation.

MISCONDUCT DISCLOSURE

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any misconduct history or pending research misconduct investigation including but not limited to sexual misconduct in prior employment and provide a related release and will be subject to a criminal background and credential check.

• MFA in Screenwriting or Creative Writing or related degree.

• Evidence of professional screenwriting experience.


• Prior experience teaching courses in screenwriting or related fields at the college level.


• Professional experience in screenwriting, such as a staff position in the writers’ room of a produced television series; video game story. development at an established gaming company; or writing or co-writing credit on a professionally produced and distributed feature film.