Job Description—The Papers of Martin Van Buren

Research Editor

The Papers of Martin Van Buren seeks a part-time research editor for a five-year

appointment from July 2026-June 2031 (with employment beyond the end date dependent on

funding), at an annual salary of $35,000. The successful candidate, who will work 20 hours per

week, will obtain copies of Van Buren documents needed for the project, add metadata to the

digital edition, and provide annotations for The Selected Papers of Martin Van Buren print

edition, among other assigned duties.

Qualifications for the position include an M.A. in history or related field (Ph.D.

preferred); archival research experience; the ability to work both independently and as part of a

team; exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills; and proficiency in

reading and comprehending nineteenth-century handwriting. Experience with documentary

editing and/or a research specialty in U.S. history between 1800 and 1865 would be considered a

plus. The successful hire may work remotely or in person at the project office in Cumberland

University’s Vise Library, located in Lebanon, Tennessee, 30 miles east of Nashville. Periodic

travel will be required.

Applicants should submit a letter of application outlining their qualifications for the

position, as well as a c.v. that lists three professional references. Questions about the position can

be directed to Dr. Mark Cheathem, Project Director, at [email protected]. The

committee will begin reviewing applications in late April.