J-1 Visa Study Start Up Jobs
Study Start Up roles in the United States connect you with clinical research organizations, pharmaceutical sponsors, and academic medical centers that host J-1 visa exchange visitors under the Trainee or Research Scholar category. Finding a host employer willing to coordinate with a designated sponsor for DS-2019 sponsorship takes targeted preparation.
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The University of Connecticut (UConn) is pleased to invite applications for a faculty position in the Department of Dramatic Arts at the rank of Visiting Assistant Professor in Theatre Studies. The successful candidate will teach 6 undergraduate courses during the academic year with a potential course release if directing in Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT) productions. In addition to teaching, the selected candidate may contribute to department performance projects and undertake intradepartmental collaborations. The anticipated start date is August 23, 2026.
The successful candidate will join a robust department that works in close partnership with the Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT, UConn’s producing entity) and participate in the life of the department through teaching, directing in the CRT season, and student mentorship. The teaching load is 3-3 (three courses per semester), with an anticipated 1-course release during one semester to direct a show as part of the CRT season. The successful candidate will also share a deep commitment to effective instruction, innovative courses and instruction methods, and mentoring students in artistic endeavors, outreach, and professional development. Successful candidates will also be expected to broaden participation among members of under-represented groups; demonstrate through research, teaching, and/or public engagement the commitment to, and support of, diversity in the learning experience; integrate multicultural experiences into instructional methods and research tools; and provide leadership in developing pedagogical techniques designed to meet the needs of diverse learning styles and intellectual interests.
The Department of Dramatic Arts is resolutely committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible, and equitable environment for all members of our community. With that affirmation in mind, historically underrepresented and/or marginalized groups of all held identities, including but not limited to, applicants with accessibility needs, women, candidates of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, are actively encouraged to apply, and your offerings of continued accountability are welcomed.
The Department of Dramatic Arts and its theatre production arm, the Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT), combine to create an exciting center for excellence in the dramatic arts. Each year, young theatre artists choose to pursue education, training, and production experience through undergraduate and graduate study in the Department of Dramatic Arts and CRT. The goal of the department is two-fold. First, it aims to provide the finest possible professional training through classroom and studio instruction. Second, it aims to supplement and enrich that classroom and studio training by providing maximal opportunities for students to obtain professional level production experience through active participation in plays produced by the Connecticut Repertory Theatre and the Department of Dramatic Arts.
Founded in 1881, UConn is a Land Grant and Sea Grant institution and member of the Space Grant Consortium. It is the state’s flagship institution of higher education and includes a main campus in Storrs, CT, four regional campuses throughout the state, and 13 Schools and Colleges, including a Law School in Hartford, and Medical and Dental Schools at the UConn Health campus in Farmington. The University has approximately 10,000 faculty and staff and 32,000 students, including nearly 24,000 undergraduates and over 8,000 graduate and professional students. UConn is a Carnegie Foundation R1 (highest research activity) institution, among the top 25 public universities in the nation. Through research, teaching, service, and outreach, UConn embraces diversity and cultivates leadership, integrity, and engaged citizenship in its students, faculty, staff, and alumni. UConn promotes the health and well-being of citizens by enhancing the social, economic, cultural, and natural environments of the state and beyond. The University serves as a beacon of academic and research excellence as well as a center for innovation and social service to communities. UConn is a leader in many scholarly, research, and innovation areas. Today, the path forward includes exciting opportunities and notable challenges. Record numbers of undergraduate applications and support for student success have enabled the University to become extraordinarily selective.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Teach a 3/3 course load in theatre studies and other areas (possible courses may include: Histories of Drama/Performance, Introduction to Acting/Directing Practices, Exploration of Acting, Advanced Study of Acting/Directing, Playwriting, Devising Theatre for Social Justice), as requested by the Area Head(s), which could include directing productions for the Department and CRT.
- Take a leadership role in nationwide student recruitment for the undergraduate Theatre Studies program.
- Collaborate with other members of the Theatre Studies faculty in the operation of the Theatre Studies program.
- Anticipated direction of a show as part of the CRT season during the Spring 2027 semester.
- Collaborate with faculty, artists, and production representatives to review/ascertain needs for the relevant Spring 2027 production.
- Provides career advisement to students for post-graduation and summer opportunities.
- Serve on committees as assigned.
- Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Terminal degree (i.e. MFA, PHD, or PhD candidate who is ABD by the start date of the position (8/23/26)) in theatre, performance, or a related discipline. Equivalent foreign degrees are acceptable.
- Demonstrated experience teaching in higher education (undergraduate or graduate).
- Experience directing theatre productions.
- Excellent collaboration, pedagogical, and communication skills; ability to follow university procedures/policies including maintaining confidentiality of student information; and effective scheduling, planning, and organizational skills.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience directing theatre productions at the undergraduate or graduate level, as well as with professional (i.e. SAG-AFTRA) actors.
- Experience teaching playwriting and/or developing/directing/teaching devised theatre.
APPOINTMENT TERMS
This is a full-time, 9-month, non tenure-track position with an anticipated start date of August 23, 2026. The successful candidate’s academic appointment will be at the Storrs campus. Faculty may also be asked to teach at one of UConn’s regional campuses as part of their ordinary workload.
The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.
TO APPLY
Please apply online at Faculty and Staff Positions, Search #499651 and submit the following application materials:
- A cover letter,
- Curriculum vitae,
- Research and scholarship statement (innovative concepts that will form the basis of academic career, experience in proposal development, mentorship of graduate students, etc.);
- Teaching statement (including teaching philosophy, teaching experience, commitment to effective learning, concepts for new course development, etc.);
- Commitment to diversity statement (including broadening participation, integrating multicultural experiences in instruction and research and pedagogical techniques to meet the needs of diverse learning styles, etc.);
- Sample journal articles or books, as applicable;
- Name and Contact information for 3 professional references.
Evaluation of applicants will begin immediately. For more information regarding the Department of Dramatic Arts please visit the department website.
At the University of Connecticut, our commitment to excellence is complemented by our commitment to building a culturally diverse community.
This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on July 2, 2026.
All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics.
All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.
The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, age, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disabilities, veteran’s status, status as a victim of domestic violence and/or sexual assault and/or trafficking in persons as defined by Connecticut law, prior conviction of a crime, workplace hazards to the reproductive systems, or gender identity or expression.
The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO employer including for Disability and Veteran status.
Advertised: Jun 18 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Jul 02 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Location: UConn Storrs
Work type: Full-time
Categories: Faculty Temporary
JOB SUMMARY
The University of Connecticut (UConn) is pleased to invite applications for a faculty position in the Department of Dramatic Arts at the rank of Visiting Assistant Professor in Theatre Studies. The successful candidate will teach 6 undergraduate courses during the academic year with a potential course release if directing in Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT) productions. In addition to teaching, the selected candidate may contribute to department performance projects and undertake intradepartmental collaborations. The anticipated start date is August 23, 2026.
The successful candidate will join a robust department that works in close partnership with the Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT, UConn’s producing entity) and participate in the life of the department through teaching, directing in the CRT season, and student mentorship. The teaching load is 3-3 (three courses per semester), with an anticipated 1-course release during one semester to direct a show as part of the CRT season. The successful candidate will also share a deep commitment to effective instruction, innovative courses and instruction methods, and mentoring students in artistic endeavors, outreach, and professional development. Successful candidates will also be expected to broaden participation among members of under-represented groups; demonstrate through research, teaching, and/or public engagement the commitment to, and support of, diversity in the learning experience; integrate multicultural experiences into instructional methods and research tools; and provide leadership in developing pedagogical techniques designed to meet the needs of diverse learning styles and intellectual interests.
The Department of Dramatic Arts is resolutely committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible, and equitable environment for all members of our community. With that affirmation in mind, historically underrepresented and/or marginalized groups of all held identities, including but not limited to, applicants with accessibility needs, women, candidates of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, are actively encouraged to apply, and your offerings of continued accountability are welcomed.
The Department of Dramatic Arts and its theatre production arm, the Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT), combine to create an exciting center for excellence in the dramatic arts. Each year, young theatre artists choose to pursue education, training, and production experience through undergraduate and graduate study in the Department of Dramatic Arts and CRT. The goal of the department is two-fold. First, it aims to provide the finest possible professional training through classroom and studio instruction. Second, it aims to supplement and enrich that classroom and studio training by providing maximal opportunities for students to obtain professional level production experience through active participation in plays produced by the Connecticut Repertory Theatre and the Department of Dramatic Arts.
Founded in 1881, UConn is a Land Grant and Sea Grant institution and member of the Space Grant Consortium. It is the state’s flagship institution of higher education and includes a main campus in Storrs, CT, four regional campuses throughout the state, and 13 Schools and Colleges, including a Law School in Hartford, and Medical and Dental Schools at the UConn Health campus in Farmington. The University has approximately 10,000 faculty and staff and 32,000 students, including nearly 24,000 undergraduates and over 8,000 graduate and professional students. UConn is a Carnegie Foundation R1 (highest research activity) institution, among the top 25 public universities in the nation. Through research, teaching, service, and outreach, UConn embraces diversity and cultivates leadership, integrity, and engaged citizenship in its students, faculty, staff, and alumni. UConn promotes the health and well-being of citizens by enhancing the social, economic, cultural, and natural environments of the state and beyond. The University serves as a beacon of academic and research excellence as well as a center for innovation and social service to communities. UConn is a leader in many scholarly, research, and innovation areas. Today, the path forward includes exciting opportunities and notable challenges. Record numbers of undergraduate applications and support for student success have enabled the University to become extraordinarily selective.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Teach a 3/3 course load in theatre studies and other areas (possible courses may include: Histories of Drama/Performance, Introduction to Acting/Directing Practices, Exploration of Acting, Advanced Study of Acting/Directing, Playwriting, Devising Theatre for Social Justice), as requested by the Area Head(s), which could include directing productions for the Department and CRT.
- Take a leadership role in nationwide student recruitment for the undergraduate Theatre Studies program.
- Collaborate with other members of the Theatre Studies faculty in the operation of the Theatre Studies program.
- Anticipated direction of a show as part of the CRT season during the Spring 2027 semester.
- Collaborate with faculty, artists, and production representatives to review/ascertain needs for the relevant Spring 2027 production.
- Provides career advisement to students for post-graduation and summer opportunities.
- Serve on committees as assigned.
- Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Terminal degree (i.e. MFA, PHD, or PhD candidate who is ABD by the start date of the position (8/23/26)) in theatre, performance, or a related discipline. Equivalent foreign degrees are acceptable.
- Demonstrated experience teaching in higher education (undergraduate or graduate).
- Experience directing theatre productions.
- Excellent collaboration, pedagogical, and communication skills; ability to follow university procedures/policies including maintaining confidentiality of student information; and effective scheduling, planning, and organizational skills.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience directing theatre productions at the undergraduate or graduate level, as well as with professional (i.e. SAG-AFTRA) actors.
- Experience teaching playwriting and/or developing/directing/teaching devised theatre.
APPOINTMENT TERMS
This is a full-time, 9-month, non tenure-track position with an anticipated start date of August 23, 2026. The successful candidate’s academic appointment will be at the Storrs campus. Faculty may also be asked to teach at one of UConn’s regional campuses as part of their ordinary workload.
The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.
TO APPLY
Please apply online at Faculty and Staff Positions, Search #499651 and submit the following application materials:
- A cover letter,
- Curriculum vitae,
- Research and scholarship statement (innovative concepts that will form the basis of academic career, experience in proposal development, mentorship of graduate students, etc.);
- Teaching statement (including teaching philosophy, teaching experience, commitment to effective learning, concepts for new course development, etc.);
- Commitment to diversity statement (including broadening participation, integrating multicultural experiences in instruction and research and pedagogical techniques to meet the needs of diverse learning styles, etc.);
- Sample journal articles or books, as applicable;
- Name and Contact information for 3 professional references.
Evaluation of applicants will begin immediately. For more information regarding the Department of Dramatic Arts please visit the department website.
At the University of Connecticut, our commitment to excellence is complemented by our commitment to building a culturally diverse community.
This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on July 2, 2026.
All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics.
All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.
The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, age, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disabilities, veteran’s status, status as a victim of domestic violence and/or sexual assault and/or trafficking in persons as defined by Connecticut law, prior conviction of a crime, workplace hazards to the reproductive systems, or gender identity or expression.
The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO employer including for Disability and Veteran status.
Advertised: Jun 18 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Jul 02 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Location: UConn Storrs
Work type: Full-time
Categories: Faculty Temporary
See all 116+ J-1 Visa Study Start Up Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new J-1 Visa Study Start Up Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding J-1 Visa Sponsorship in Study Start Up
Document your clinical research training plan
Your designated sponsor requires a detailed training plan before issuing the DS-2019. Map your Study Start Up experience to specific competencies like protocol feasibility, site activation, and regulatory submissions so the plan reflects genuine training objectives, not just job duties.
Distinguish Trainee from Research Scholar eligibility
Trainee status fits professionals with one to five years of post-degree experience in clinical research. Research Scholar applies if your role involves independent research at a university or research institute. Applying under the wrong category triggers a sponsor rejection before the host employer is even notified.
Target host employers with existing sponsor relationships
Many CROs and academic medical centers have standing agreements with designated sponsors like Cultural Vistas or AIPT. Search on Migrate Mate for Study Start Up roles tagged as J-1 eligible so you reach employers already set up to host exchange visitors without starting the sponsor relationship from scratch.
Verify the two-year home residency requirement early
Study Start Up roles funded by a foreign government or involving skills on the Exchange Visitor Skills List may trigger the two-year home residency requirement under INA 212(e). Confirm your status with your designated sponsor before accepting an offer, since this affects any future H-1B visa or green card plans.
Align your DS-2019 dates with site activation timelines
Study Start Up work is milestone-driven. Ask your host employer for a realistic site activation schedule before your sponsor sets DS-2019 program dates. A mismatch between your visa window and the protocol timeline is a common reason exchange visitors request program extensions.
Prepare a regulatory credentials packet for host review
Host employers evaluating J-1 candidates for Study Start Up roles expect to see ICH GCP certification, source document verification training, and any IRB or ethics committee experience upfront. Assembling this packet before outreach shortens the host approval process significantly.
Study Start Up J-1 Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which J-1 program category applies to Study Start Up roles?
Most Study Start Up professionals enter under the Trainee category, which covers individuals with a degree or professional certificate and at least one year of experience outside the United States who are developing skills in clinical research operations. If your role is based at a university or research institute and involves independent scholarly activity rather than structured training, the Research Scholar category may apply instead. Your designated sponsor makes the final determination based on your background and the training plan your host employer submits.
Who actually sponsors the J-1 visa for a Study Start Up position?
The J-1 visa sponsor is a U.S. Department of State-designated organization, not your hiring employer. Organizations like Cultural Vistas or AIPT issue the DS-2019 certificate of eligibility, monitor program compliance, and serve as your official sponsor of record. Your host employer, typically a CRO, pharmaceutical company, or academic medical center, is responsible for the training program itself but is not the designated sponsor. Both parties have distinct legal roles under the exchange visitor program.
How do I find Study Start Up host employers that already work with J-1 sponsors?
Searching on Migrate Mate filters for Study Start Up roles with J-1 sponsorship alignment, connecting you directly with employers who have existing relationships with designated sponsors. This saves significant time because establishing a new host-sponsor agreement can add weeks to the process. Employers already set up to host J-1 Trainees generally move faster from offer to DS-2019 issuance than those starting the relationship from scratch.
Does the two-year home residency requirement affect Study Start Up J-1 holders?
It can. If your Study Start Up position is funded directly or indirectly by your home government, or if your home country lists clinical research skills on the Exchange Visitor Skills List, the two-year home residency requirement under INA 212(e) applies after your program ends. This bars you from changing to H-1B, L-1 visa, or permanent resident status without first returning home or obtaining a waiver. Confirm whether this requirement applies to you before accepting a host employer offer.
Can a Study Start Up J-1 Trainee change host employers mid-program?
A change of host employer during an active J-1 Trainee program requires your designated sponsor to issue an amended DS-2019 reflecting the new host organization and an updated training plan. The new host must go through the same vetting and agreement process as the original. You cannot simply transfer to a new CRO or site management organization without sponsor involvement, and unauthorized changes can result in program termination and a loss of valid J-1 status.