Research Assistant Opportunity: Editorial Assistantship with the Writers: Craft and Context (WCC) Journal

Are you a graduate student passionate about editing, publishing, and scholarly communication? The Department of Latina/Latino Studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is now accepting applications for a Research Assistant position serving as an Editorial Assistant for the Writers: Craft and Context (WCC) Journal.
This exciting opportunity offers valuable professional experience in digital publishing, academic editing, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

📘 About the Writers: Craft and Context (WCC) Journal

Writers: Craft and Context (WCC) is an open-access online journal that publishes transdisciplinary scholarly and creative works. The publication bridges academic, creative, and pedagogical fields, making it a dynamic platform for scholars in the humanities and social sciences.
The WCC team seeks a motivated Editorial Assistant to support its mission of publishing accessible, inclusive, and innovative research.

💼 Position Overview

• Title: Research Assistant – Editorial Assistantship
• Department: Latina/Latino Studies, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Employment Type: Research Assistantship (25%)
• Application Deadline: October 29, 2025
• Start Date: January 1, 2026
• Funding: Fully funded RA line through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

This position provides hands-on editorial experience and contributes directly to the journal’s digital publishing operations.

🔧 Key Responsibilities

As a WCC Editorial Assistant, you will:

• Collaboratively copyedit and design-edit accepted journal submissions.
• Ensure readability, accessibility, and usability in published works.
• Communicate effectively with editors, authors, and contributors via email and video conferencing.
• Meet strict publishing deadlines during production cycles (average 5–7 hours per week, up to 10 hours during peak periods).
• Receive on-the-job training in editorial tools and digital publishing systems.

🎓 Required Qualifications

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Initiative to learn new digital tools and editorial technologies.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Knowledge in the humanities or social sciences.
• Prior editorial experience or willingness to learn quickly.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and work efficiently online.
• Experience with audio or video editing (a plus).

Candidates with research or teaching interests aligned with digital publishing, academic communication, or interdisciplinary writing are especially encouraged to apply.

💰 Compensation and Benefits

This is a fully funded Graduate Research Assistant (RA) position supported by UIUC’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the Department of Latina/Latino Studies.
Compensation aligns with the University Graduate College and Graduate Employment Organization (GEO) agreements.

Professional Benefits Include:

• Hands-on experience in scholarly and digital publishing.
• Networking with editors and contributors across disciplines.
• Opportunities for academic recognition and professional growth.
• Recommendation letters and strong CV enhancement.
• A supportive, collaborative, and creative team environment.

📄 How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application materials by October 29, 2025.

Send your application to Aja Y. Martinez (WCC Editor) at aym@illinois.edu with the subject line:
“WCC Editorial Assistant Application: [Full Name]”

Application materials include:

1. A brief email cover letter (2–3 paragraphs) describing your qualifications and interests.
2. An abbreviated CV highlighting relevant experience.
3. One reference (name, email, title, and affiliation).

✉️ Contact Information

Aja Y. Martinez
Editor, Writers: Craft and Context (WCC) Journal
Email: aym@illinois.edu

🌍 Why Apply?

Joining the Writers: Craft and Context editorial team offers more than just a graduate assistantship—it’s a gateway to building your academic portfolio, expanding your professional network, and contributing to innovative scholarship across diverse disciplines.
If you’re passionate about writing, editing, and academic publishing, this is your chance to grow your career at one of the nation’s top research universities.