Cover Letters for Academic Positions（求职信的学术立场）.pdf

Cover Letters for Academic Positions The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself and to demonstrate the fit between your background and the advertised position. THE BASICS A cover letter must accompany and be tailored to any application you submit. STEM letters should not exceed one page. Humanities and social sciences letters may extend up to two pages. Check with faculty in your department.  Address to the individual named in the job posting, or with “Dear Members of the Search Committee.”  The cover letter is a writing sample. It must be good.  Proofread and spell check! TIPS  Articulate your fit and focus on potential contributions to this institution—not why you need or want the job.  Show enthusiasm for the position.  Imagine yourself on the search committee—what would you be looking for?  Answer any questions they might have. For most graduate students and postdocs, important questions include: “When will you complete your degree?” or “When are you available?” WHAT TO WRITE ABOUT Opening Paragraph Introduce yourself to the search committee.  Refer to the specific position for which you are applying and how you learned about the position or institution.  Briefly, but specifically, explain why you are interested in the job and institution, beyond regurgitating the mission statement).  Include a thesis statement outlining the reasons why you are applying for this job and what makes you an excellent candidate. 217-333-4610 | GradCareers@illinois.edu | grad.ill