Full Department Name
Name of Institution
Department Address
Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members:
Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community.
Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly explain your research to date. Consider mentioning your research questions, methods, key findings, as well as where and when you published and/or presented this work.
Paragraph 3 [4-5 Sentences]: Elaborate on your current research project. Consider mentioning your most prestigious funding awards for this project. Explain your key findings in more detail.
Paragraph 4 [3-5 Sentences]: Introduce your future research plans and goals. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work.
Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and strategies. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting.
Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague.
Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Your Name
Credentials and Position
Institution/Affiliation Name
Date: Month Day, Year Search Committee Chair’s First and Last Name, Graduate Degree Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members: Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community. Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and pedagogical commitments. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting. Paragraph 3 [3-4 Sentences]: Provide a discussion of how you involved yourself with students or the broader university community outside of the traditional classroom setting. Discuss how those interactions influenced your teaching. Paragraph 4 [2-3 Sentences]: Briefly explain your current research interests to date and how it relates to your teaching. State your research questions, methods, and key findings or arguments. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work. Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Highlight when and where your research was published and/or presented this work or any forthcoming publications. Mention any prestigious funding or awards. Introduce your future research plans and goals. Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague. Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration. Sincerely, Your Name |
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.
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.
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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When you're applying for a faculty position with a college or university, the cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression as a promising researcher and teacher. Below you'll find some strategies for presenting your qualifications effectively in an academic context.
A cover letter for an academic job has a function similar to one for a business job, but the content differs significantly in quantity and kind. While the general advice for business cover letters—such as tailoring your letter for the specific job and selling your strengths—still applies, a cover letter for an academic position should be long enough to highlight in some detail your accomplishments during your graduate education in research, teaching, departmental service, and so on. The typical letter is thus usually one and a half to two pages long, but not more than two—roughly five to eight paragraphs.
In the opening of your letter you need to convey some basic information, such as what specific position you are applying for (using the title given in the job notice) and where you learned of the opening. Since a cover letter is a kind of persuasive writing (persuading a hiring committee to include you on a list of candidates for further review), the first paragraph of your letter should also make the initial claim as to why you are a strong candidate for the position.
In an academic context knowing your audience means reading the job notice carefully and knowing the type of institution to which you are applying. Most graduate students have studied a broad range of material within their discipline before specializing in a narrow field for the dissertation project. Since it is rare to find a job notice specifying your exact qualifications, you need to emphasize those aspects of your graduate training that seem particularly relevant to the position advertised.
If you're still working on your dissertation, you should mention somewhere in the letter when you expect to be awarded the Ph.D., even being as specific as to mention how many chapters have been completed and accepted, how many are in draft version, and what your schedule for completion is. Last-paragraph tips include the following:
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Your PhD cover letter must immediately highlight your main thesis contribution. Draw the reader's attention with a succinct explanation of your research significance and uniqueness. Demonstrate how your expertise aligns with the department or institution's academic focus. Your cover letter should create a compelling narrative that weaves your skills into their ongoing projects and goals.
PhD Cover Letter Sample
Cover Letter Format
Cover Letter Salutation
Cover Letter Introduction
Cover Letter Body
Cover Letter Closing
No Experience PhD Cover Letter
Key Takeaways
Embarking on your job search, you've likely discovered the need to craft a compelling PhD cover letter—a document that can stump even the most accomplished professionals. This crucial letter shouldn't just echo your resume; it must weave the narrative of your proudest professional triumph. With formal language minus the clichés, and conciseness that caps at one page, we'll guide you through the intricacies of creating a cover letter that stands out, ensuring your application demands attention.
And if you want to make your life even easier, simply drag and drop your phd resume into Enhancv's AI cover letter generator, and it will write your cover letter for you in just a few moments.
If the phd isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:
PETER CONNOLLY
Clarksville, TN
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To start, here's a reminder for you: the Applicant Tracker System (or software that is used to assess candidate profiles), won't be reading your phd cover letter.
Recruiters enjoy reading phd cover letters with a standardized format that uses:
Finally, we can't go on without mentioning the key sections of your phd cover letter.
In the top one-third, make sure to include a header (with your contact information, name, role, and date), a salutation, and an introduction.
Next, follows the heart and soul of your phd cover letter or its body.
End your phd cover letter with a closing paragraph and, if you wish, a signature.
Header: This includes your contact information, the date, and the recipient's details; it's essential for providing immediate visibility of your identity and for professional correspondence formatting.
Opening Salutation/Greeting: A formal greeting addresses the recipient properly and sets a respectful and professional tone for the cover letter, which is important for making a good first impression.
Introduction: This section should capture the recruiter's attention by briefly introducing your background, your interest in the PhD program, and the specific reasons you are drawn to this particular opportunity.
Research Interests and Academic Background: Tailor this part to showcase your relevant educational and research experiences, current interests, and how it aligns with the department’s work, demonstrating your fit for the program.
Closing and Call to Action: Conclude by summarizing your suitability for the role, reiterating your enthusiasm, and inviting further discussion, showing proactivity and eagerness to engage with the academic community.
Your phd cover letter greeting should feel welcoming to recruiters.
Use their first name (e.g. "Dear Marshall" or "Dear Sara"), if you've previously been in touch with the hiring manager and are on a more friendly basis.
If this is the first time you're contacting the recruiters, start your phd cover letter with:
You only have one chance at making a memorable first impression on recruiters with your phd cover letter.
Structure your introduction to be precise and to include no more than two sentences.
Here are some ideas on how to write a job-winning phd cover letter introduction:
Here's where it gets tricky.
Your phd cover letter body should present you in the best light possible and, at the same time, differ from your resume.
Don't be stuck in making up new things or copy-pasting from your resume. Instead, select just one achievement from your experience.
Use it to succinctly tell a story of the job-crucial skills and knowledge this taught you.
Your phd cover letter is the magic card you need to further show how any organization or team would benefit from working with you.
You've done all the hard work - congratulations! You've almost reached the end of your phd cover letter .
But how do you ensure recruiters, who have read your application this far, remember you?
Most phd professionals end their cover letter with a promise - hinting at their potential and what they plan on achieving if they're hired.
Another option would be to include a call for follow-up, where you remind recruiters that you're very interested in the opportunity (and look forward to hearing from them, soon).
Choose to close your phd cover letter in the way that best fits your personality.
Candidates, lacking professional experience in the field - this one is for you.
Your phd cover letter is an exercise of integrity, honesty, and, above all, spinning a positive narrative around your strengths.
And what better way to capture recruiters' attention than with your most job-relevant achievement (this could be from your internship or volunteering experience)?
Make sure to back up your success with transferrable skills that are relevant to the job (e.g. how your year, studying abroad, has taught you to be more motivated and handle multicultural environments).
Another safe card you can bet on is your career dream: in the body of your phd cover letter, go into the details of how your ambitions would help make the company you're applying for better.
Your phd cover letter is your best shot at standing out by showing your motivation and the unique skills you'd bring to the job:
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Write the introduction. Once you finish the body of the cover letter, write the introduction. The introduction should clearly state what you're applying to. You may also use this space to briefly mention an ambition or goal for the future. 5. Highlight your key strengths and experiences in the first body paragraph.
Formal salutation. In an official letter like this one, you should address the reader in a professional and formal way. If you know who'll be reading your cover letter, go with Dear Dr. [Surname] or Dear Professor [Surname]. If you don't, go with Dear Sir/Madam. The specific PhD program or position.
What to include in a cover letter for a PhD application. The first thing you should include in your cover or motivation letter is a few introductory sentences. Outline who you are, what you are currently doing, whether it be a Masters or a job, and what PhD position you're applying for. Make sure to include the PhD project reference number if ...
Keep your font size between 10 to 12 points and your margins to at least 0.5 inches around all edges. Try to match the font size, type, line spacing and margin size to your academic CV for neat and consistent presentation. Your cover letter should be addressed to the PhD supervisor, starting with a "Dear [academic title] [surname]", for ...
How to Format a Cover Letter. Font. Use a 12-point standard font (e.g., Times New Roman, Garamond, Verdana, Helvetica, Arial). Spacing. Set the document margins to 1 inch on all sides. Center your letter on the page and set paragraph alignment for all text to "justified.". Heading.
Tips for Writing a PhD Cover Letter. 1. Address the Letter Appropriately. Begin your cover letter with a professional greeting, addressing the recipient by name if possible. If you are unsure of the recipient's name, use a generic greeting such as "Dear Admissions Committee.". 2.
The academic cover letter communicates your scholarly fit with the position, organization and department. The cover letter should be no longer than 2 pages and should expand on your most relevant accomplishments and situate your work in the context outlined by the position. It should also outline your. research agenda and future trajectory.
A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters. Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long - anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers.
Formal Closing: Opt for a formal and universally accepted closing such as Sincerely, Kind regards, or Best regards. Name and Title: Under the closing, type your full name. It's also a good practice to include your current academic title or designation, adding to the clarity and formality. PhD Cover Letter Example.
Outline who you are, what you are currently doing - for instance, if you are a master's student or are in employment - and indicate what PhD position or project you are applying to. Double check the advert for a reference number and include this here if one is provided. Develop 2 - 3 paragraphs as part of the main body of your content ...
1. Greeting. Like any application letter, a cover letter for PhD a position should have a polite and professional greeting. It's best to address your PhD cover letter to a specific person, such as the head of the department or the admission team. 2.
Use a business-letter format and stick to one page of 3-5 paragraphs. Like a résumé, each cover letter you write should be tailored to the specific position and employer to align with the organization's culture and the requirements of the role. Use the same header on both your cover letter and résumé for a cohesive and polished look.
Academic Cover Letters. The cover letter is a single spaced, two-page introductory document that creates a narrative for your application package. It introduces the search committee to your: Enthusiasm for the position and your expected availability (e.g., expected defense date) Research. Teaching and teaching assistantships.
A strong motivation letter for PhD applications will include: A concise introduction stating which programme you are applying for, Your academic background and professional work experience, Any key skills you possess and what makes you the ideal candidate, Your interest and motivation for applying, Concluding remarks and thanks.
What Research Information Should be Included in a Cover Letter. A research position cover letter is not the place for your academic history, dissertation, or publications. While it may be tempting to go into detail about the amazing research you did for your thesis, that belongs in your CV. Details like this will make your cover letter too long.
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 ...
While the general advice for business cover letters—such as tailoring your letter for the specific job and selling your strengths—still applies, a cover letter for an academic position should be long enough to highlight in some detail your accomplishments during your graduate education in research, teaching, departmental service, and so on.
What is a PhD cover letter? How long should it be? What should you talk about? We answer these questions and give advice on writing a strong PhD cover letter. How to Write a PhD Research Proposal . Find out how to write a PhD Research Proposal that any supervisor will be impressed with - find out what to include, how to structure it and more! ...
over Letters for Academic PositionsThe purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself and to demonstrate the fit between your ba. advertised position. THE BASICS cover letter must accompany and be ta. lored to any application you submit. STE. letters should not exceed one page. Humanities and social science.
PhD resume guide and example. Educational Consultant cover letter example. Librarian cover letter example. Special Education Teacher cover letter example. Undergraduate Teaching Assistant cover letter example. Bilingual Teacher cover letter example. Piano Teacher cover letter example.
To help you write an effective and organised PhD cover letter, below is a series of steps you can follow. These can help you break down your cover letter into distinct parts and be a general guide or template for when you write your own. The steps to writing a PhD application cover letter are as follows: 1. Do your research.
Follow these steps to write a cover letter for graduate school: 1. Begin by addressing your cover letter. The first step to writing any cover letter is addressing it properly. You should begin by writing your full name and address. You may also include your phone number or email address on an additional line, but this is optional.
Step 1: The first step to writing a good cover letter is to have a good CV. Your cover letter expands upon some of the information you include within these documents and describes the role you have played in achieving your academic goals (i.e., showing how your experiences have made you the best candidate for the position).