What is a CV ?
A curriculum vitae (CV) is a document that outlines your entire academic history. It is used most often to apply for faculty
positions at colleges and universities, for research-intensive positions at national labs or research institutes, and for fellowships,
grants, or awards.
What categories should I include in my CV?
At the very least, a CV should include contact information, education, research experience, teaching experience (if applicable),
publications, presentations, and references. Other potential categories are listed below and may include awards, professional
affiliations, community or university service, and others.
What is the appropriate length for a CV?
Length is less important in a CV than completeness. Your CV should include your complete academic history and is not
typically limited by length, as is a resume.
Should I include job descriptions for every position listed on my CV?
Not necessarily. Most academic search committees may focus solely on your institution and your advisor. Given this focus,
listing your title, institution, advisor, location, and dates you attended or were employed there are required. Additionally, most
faculty reviewers expect to see dates listed on the left-hand side of the page.
Does order matter on a CV?
Yes. It is critical for you to consider the position you are applying for and/or the audience you are writing for when compiling a
CV. For example, if you are applying for a faculty position at a small college, you will want to list your teaching experience on
the first page of your CV and your research experience and publications later in your document. The reverse would be true if
you were applying to a research-intensive university or institute.
I’m in the process of drafting my CV, but am not sure about format and style.
It is a good idea to ask your advisor or a mentor in your field for a copy of his/her CV, as each discipline has its own standards
for content, style, and format.
Do you have any samples?
The CV samples found on the OITE website will help you to draft and/or edit your own CV. While the names have been
changed, these are CVs from actual trainees who found employment in their respective areas of interest. You may use these as a
guide, but your words must be your own—do NOT copy these samples word for word