Applications are invited for the post of Associate Editor for Canadian Journal of African Studies. We seek to fill three positions to start in July 2025. The role is for a three-year appointment, renewable by mutual consent for a maximum of two further terms. 

Closing date for applications:  1 February 2025

CJAS is committed to equity and diversity and wants the editorial team to reflect the diversity of the African continent and the study of Africa.  We encourage applications from candidates based in Africa or the African diaspora, visible minorities, women, scholars at all ranks and career stages, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. 

About the Journal

Canadian Journal of African Studies (CJAS) is the official publication of the Canadian Association of African Studies (CAAS). Launched in 1967, it is a bilingual multidisciplinary journal committed to facilitating the dissemination of research by scholars of African Studies working in Canada, Africa, and elsewhere. 

CJAS publishes peer reviewed articles in the areas of anthropology / ethnography, political science, history, sociology, literature, human geography, and development.  In addition to original research papers, the journal publishes Commentaries that cover current issues, as well as book reviews.

For more information on the journal, please visit http://www.tandfonline.com/rcas.

Role Description

As members of the CJAS Editorial team, Associate Editors play a vital role in the publication process and the success of the journal. Working collaboratively with their editorial colleagues, overseen by the Coordinating Editor, Editors help to achieve the journal’s mission by performing the following functions: 

• Receive and manage new submissions, including finding peer reviewers and making decisions on submitted manuscripts. 
• Ensure that all reviewers and authors uphold the journal’s code of publishing ethics.
• Encourage the submission of manuscripts to the journal from established researchers in the field and from promising new scholars.
• Expand the pool of reviewers, in terms of size, topic speciality, and geographical representation.
• Identify strategies to enhance and maintain the quality and reputation of the journal.
• Work with the CJAS Editorial team to develop the editorial strategy and direction of the journal and to act as ambassador for the journal.
• Participate in the annual CAAS Conference and serve as a member of the CAAS Board of Directors.
• Participate in meetings with other members of the CJAS Editorial team and maintain active correspondence with editorial colleagues. 

To assure that the integrity and reputation of the journal is maintained at all times CJAS Editors are expected to adhere to the publishing ethics outlined in COPE Code of Conduct and Best Practice Guidelines for Journal Editors. 

Successful candidates will begin with a transition period with the current Editorial team a few months before the official start of their term on 1 July 2025. 

Candidate Qualifications

Applicants should have recognized expertise and an established record of published scholarship in African Studies and should be actively involved with international networks within the field. In this call, we are especially seeking candidates with expertise in Political Science, History, Sociology and/or Anthropology, and with regional expertise in Southern, West or East/NE Africa, although all disciplinary and regional specializations will be considered. At least one of the appointments will be someone able to conduct journal business primarily in French. French-English bilingualism will be an asset for any applicant. 

Key qualities sought for the position include energy, enthusiasm, organizational skills, and the ability to meet deadlines and work effectively within a team and with a major commercial academic publisher. Previous editorial and peer review experience will be an asset. Applicants should have clear institutional recognition and support for this voluntary activity for the duration of the three-year appointment. 

Application Procedure

Interested candidates are requested to email a letter outlining their motivation and qualifications for the role, along with a full C.V. including a list of publications, to current Coordinating Editor Dr Belinda Dodson (bdodson@uwo.ca).

All applications will be treated as strictly confidential. 

Further Note

Current Coordinating Editor Dr Belinda Dodson is happy to discuss the duties and responsibilities of the post informally and can be contacted at bdodson@uwo.ca.