Assistant Professor - Department of Political Science
Department of Political Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Media, Technology, and Politics, expected to start on September 1, 2027.
About the role
Applicants should have a research focus on social media, digital platforms, and/or artificial intelligence in the context of how these technologies are rapidly reshaping campaigns, political discourse, and democratic institutions in the United States. The new hire is expected to engage with the University’s interdisciplinary programs through the Computational Social Science Institute and the Community, Democracy, and Dialogue Initiative and to contribute to the UMass Poll.
Responsibilities
- Conduct research on media, technology, and politics with a documented record or clear promise of exceptional research productivity
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the candidate’s areas of expertise in Political Science and in the Data Analytics and Computational Social Science Program (DACSS)
- Engage students from diverse backgrounds and contribute to an inclusive learning environment
- Seek external funding or demonstrate experience in securing external grants (a plus)
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Political Science or a related discipline by the start date
- Record of research and teaching in Media and Politics, Technology and Politics, Artificial Intelligence and Politics, and/or Political Methodology
- Demonstrated ability to teach in the Data Analytics and Computational Social Science (DACSS) Program
Application materials
Applicants should submit the following:
- Curriculum vitae
- Research statement discussing current research agenda and its contribution to media, technology, and politics
- Teaching and mentoring statement aligning with the university’s strategic plan goals, including equity and inclusive excellence
- Evidence of teaching effectiveness
- Up to three samples of current scholarship
- Names and contact information for three references
Review of applications will begin on September 15, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Preference will be given to applications received on or before this date.
Pay
The expected salary range for this position is between $79,350 and $125,811. The low-end reflects the minimum salary for the rank per the collective bargaining agreement, while the high-end accounts for faculty with multiple years of experience. The final salary will be determined based on relevant factors, including rank and certifications.
Schedule
This is a full-time, hybrid position expected to start on September 1, 2027.