Office of Graduate Affairs

Nataliia Laas, PhD'22, History

Assistant Professor, Washington University in St. Louis

May 11, 2026

Can you describe your career path and how it has led to your current work?

I currently work as an Assistant Professor of History at Washington University in St. Louis. Before coming to WashU, I had two postdoctoral positions: one at the Jordan Center for the Advanced Study of Russia, New York University and another at the Jackson School of Global Affairs, Yale University. During the last year of my graduate studies at Brandeis, I conducted informational interviews with people building non-academic careers (library and archival studies, higher education administration, digital humanities, etc.), but no trajectory really got me more passionate than academic work. I was incredibly lucky to get an academic job as the current history job market is devastating.

What does a typical day/week look like for you in this position?

My work consists of research, teaching, and service. I typically teach two courses per semester and have a meeting related to service every other week. In 2026, I am on research leave because I received the 2025 Fellowship from the American Council of Learned Societies. These days, I mostly focus on my writing.

What skills from your Brandeis degree have you found most valuable in your current work?

Conducting independent exploration in archives and writing a dissertation was crucial in developing my research skills. As a graduate student at Brandeis, I also had an opportunity to teach my own courses, which boosted my confidence as an instructor.

What advice do you have for current students as they embark on their career exploration or job search?

Build your CV early, starting from the first year of your grad school. Seek advice from multiple mentors. I have attended many workshops about job search at Brandeis and beyond, as well as watching many videos from the NCFDD.