The Teaching American Studies Network (TASN) was founded in 2020 and is the only UK-based scholarly network focused on HE pedagogical practice in American Studies. With over 100 active members, the network has organised a range of teaching-related events, workshops and conferences, both in person and online, and has supported several of its members to successful achievement of Fellowship and Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy.

TASN has also worked to embed the recognition of teaching excellence and pedagogical practice in American Studies in the UK through close collaboration with the British Association for American Studies. The TASN Lead is an ex officio member of the BAAS Development and Education Subcommittee, and TASN has worked closely with BAAS to establish the first Teaching Awards in American Studies in the UK. BAAS has also provided a range of financial and administrative support to assist TASN to carry out its activities. Now that TASN is firmly established, it is an excellent opportunity for a new Lead to take the network into its next phase.

We are looking for a new Lead (or co-Leads) for the Teaching American Studies Network. The role requires attendance at BAAS subcommittee meetings (4 per year), liaising with steering group members, and the organisation of networking events and other activities. As a national strategic leadership role, it may be particularly well suited to those on teaching-focused contracts seeking to enhance their career progression.

We are also seeking to add new members to our steering group, which guides the network’s activities and supports the network Lead.

Please note that these are voluntary roles, with no remuneration.

Please send expressions of interest, along with a short biography, to lydia.plath@baas.ac.uk by 15 September 2025.

If you have any questions about the role, the network, or the steering committee, please do contact me.

Dr Lydia Plath