How to Write an Academic Cover Letter

If you're an academic seeking guidance on the importance of a cover letter and how to write one, you're in the right place. Having an academic cover letter is a crucial step in your application process. It's your chance to showcase your qualifications, research, and teaching experience and present yourself as a suitable candidate.

This guide will walk you through the key elements of creating a good academic cover letter, offering practical tips and examples to help convey your suitability for the role. Whether you're applying for a faculty position, a research role, or a postdoctoral fellowship, a good cover letter can significantly impact your application, setting you apart from other candidates and capturing the attention of search committees.

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Academic Cover Letter Example

Isabella Bennett, an academic and accomplished professional selected the California cover letter template to showcase her expertise. She seamlessly combines teaching, research, and her education in nutrition and STEM fields, creating an academic cover letter that will get her noticed. Check out the matching academic CV example.

What to include in an academic cover letter? 

A good academic cover letter, like a good CV, should always include your contact information at the top, similar to the format of a professional business letter. Include your name, location, phone number, and email address.

1. Intro: How to start an academic cover letter 

The introduction of your academic cover letter should be engaging and immediately convey the purpose of your application. Begin by addressing the hiring committee, mentioning the specific position you are applying for, and briefly stating why you are an ideal candidate. This section should be concise and to the point. For more tips, refer to how to start a cover letter.

Use the above as a guide for any academic positions, including but not limited to:

• Senior Research Fellow

• Research Associate

• PhD Studentship

• Research Assistant

• Research Tutor.

For additional examples, explore our extensive collection of cover letter examples.

2. Body: How to write the body of an academic cover letter 

The body of your cover letter should provide a detailed account of your qualifications, focusing on your research, teaching experience, and any relevant achievements. This section is usually divided into two to three paragraphs, each highlighting different aspects of your professional background.

Academic advisor cover letter example

In my current role at Manchester University, I have successfully advised a diverse student population on academic planning, career development, and personal growth. My strong interpersonal skills and commitment to student advocacy allow me to foster meaningful relationships with students, helping them navigate challenges and make informed decisions.

I am impressed by London Business School’s dedication to student excellence. My background in student affairs and counselling aligns well with the needs of your advising team. I am excited about the opportunity to support students and contribute to its vibrant academic community.

Assistant professor cover letter example

During my doctoral studies, I conducted innovative research on economic growth and income inequality, resulting in several publications in renowned journals such as the Journal of Economic Perspectives and Economic Inquiry. My dissertation, “The Dynamics of Income Inequality and Economic Growth in Developing Economies,” received the Eastford University Best Dissertation Award for its significant contributions to the field.

I have experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Econometrics. In my role as a teaching assistant and later as an adjunct lecturer at Eastford University, I developed and delivered comprehensive course materials that fostered a deep understanding of complex economic theories. My ability to engage students and promote critical thinking was consistently reflected in my high student evaluation scores and positive feedback

I am particularly drawn to Brightstone University because of its commitment to research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s academic community through my research, teaching, and service. I am particularly interested in collaborating with faculty members on projects related to economic development and policy analysis, and I am eager to engage with students through mentorship and advising.

Lecturer cover letter example

In my current role at Greenfield Institute, I have developed and taught courses in cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and research methods, receiving positive feedback from students for my enthusiasm and ability to create an inclusive learning environment. My commitment to student-centred learning and evidence-based teaching practices aligns well with the teaching goals at London University.

I am impressed by the University’s dedication to teaching innovation and research excellence and believe my teaching experience and passion for psychology make me a strong candidate for this position. I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to your department and contribute to its academic community.

There is no one-size-fits-all cover letter strategy, but for more tips, check out our article on cover letter structure.

3. Conclusion: How to end an academic cover letter 

Similar to the above, this section is of equal importance. It should summarise your interest in the position, reiterate your enthusiasm, and thank the committee for considering your application. In addition, consider mentioning any enclosed documents such as your CV, references, or perhaps a separate document for additional publications, and express your willingness to provide further information if need be. For more tips, refer to how to professionally sign off and end a cover letter.

Example:

In conclusion, I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the Department of Biology at Cambridge University. I am confident that my research background, teaching experience, and commitment to community engagement make me a strong candidate for the Assistant Professor position. Thank you for considering my application. I have enclosed my CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.

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Key takeaways 

• Customise the letter for the specific job and institution.

• Use formal language and maintain a professional tone throughout.

• Follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

• Emphasise relevant qualifications, experiences, and skills.

• Provide concrete examples of academic achievements and research contributions.

• Explain how your research aligns with the institution’s goals and current projects.

• Highlight any teaching experience and your teaching philosophy.

• Discuss your future research plans and how they fit within the institution.

• Mention why you are interested and how you can contribute to it.

• Ensure the letter is free from grammatical and typographical errors.

Next steps? 

If you're unsure about the layout or content of your CV, browse our extensive collection of cover letter templates and CV examples for inspiration. Alternatively, you can seek help from a professional through our CV Writing Service, which also offers LinkedIn profile optimisation.

FAQ 

Are academic and PhD cover letters the same? 

Academic and PhD cover letters are similar but not identical. Both should detail your qualifications and research experience, but a PhD cover letter might focus more on your dissertation work and its relevance to the position. Academic cover letters often address teaching experience and fit with the department.

How do I write a cover letter for an academic application? 

Begin with a strong opening stating the position you're applying for. Follow with a brief overview of your academic background and research achievements, then align your expertise with the job requirements. Conclude with your enthusiasm for the position and your readiness for an interview.

What is the best academic cover letter template? 

A good academic cover letter template includes: an introduction specifying the position you're applying for, a brief summary of your qualifications and research interests, a description of how your experience aligns with the job requirements, and a conclusion expressing enthusiasm for the role and your availability for an interview.

How do you write a cover letter for an academic paper?

In an academic paper cover letter, briefly introduce your paper, its main contributions, and its relevance to the journal. Mention why the paper fits the journal’s scope and highlight any novel aspects. End with your contact information and your hope for a positive review.

How long should an academic cover letter be? 

An academic cover letter should be no more than two pages long. Aim for clarity and conciseness to make a strong impression without overwhelming the reader. Refer to our guide that delves into the ideal cover letter length.

Does a cover letter benefit someone in academics?

Yes, a cover letter is crucial in academics as it highlights your suitability for the position, complements your CV, and provides context for your achievements and research interests.

Is a cover letter required for academic positions? 

Yes, a cover letter is typically required for academic positions. It provides an opportunity to discuss your qualifications in more detail and explain why you’re a good fit for the role and institution.

Do you need a cover letter for a research position? 

Yes, a cover letter is important for research positions. It allows you to explain your research background, how it aligns with the position, and why you are interested in the role, making your application more compelling.