Assistant Professor in Social Work

THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY, COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORK (CoSW) is a renowned leader in higher education. Our mission is clear: Through rigorous research, excellence in instruction, and steadfast service, the CoSW works to improve the human condition. Always, in all ways. As the state’s flagship university, CoSW is committed to actualizing our mission through innovative, accessible academic programming.

About the role

We invite applicants for a 9-month, tenure-eligible, Assistant Professor in Social Work position in the Regular Title Series to begin as early as Spring or Fall 2027. The University’s mission involves three primary functions: instruction, research, and service. Faculty members develop and maintain a dynamic, externally funded research program and a strong record of high-impact scholarship (e.g., publications, presentations). Successful candidates are expected to teach undergraduate and graduate courses. Work in this faculty appointment, including course instruction, office hours, administrative meetings, and college-wide events, will occur on-site.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a dynamic, externally funded research program.
• Produce high-impact scholarship (e.g., publications, presentations).
• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Foster, develop, and/or maintain positive professional relationships with local, state, federal, and private social work-focused agencies/organizations/associations.
• Participate in on-site activities, including instruction, office hours, administrative meetings, and college-wide events such as faculty meetings.

Requirements

• PhD in Social Work, Sociology, Criminal Justice, or related field (ABD will be considered).
• Strong potential for securing external funding and producing high-quality scholarship.
• Ability to foster, develop, and/or maintain positive professional relationships with social work-focused agencies/organizations/associations.

Benefits

• Generous contributions to retirement plans.
• Comprehensive medical coverage and life insurance.
• Optional benefits, including dental and vision insurance, and additional retirement plans.

Employment at UK is subject to fund availability and focuses on total well-being and career development, with leadership striving to provide strong work-life integration.