Assistant Professor of Political Science - American Politics

Department 1346 - Political Science Position Information Job Title Assistant Professor of Political Science - American Politics Department 1346 - Political Science Requisition No. 0000839 Job Description Summary The Department of Political Science at Oakland University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in American Politics at the rank of Assistant Professor, beginning August 15, 2027. We seek a candidate broadly trained in American Politics with an active research agenda and a demonstrated commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching. The area of specialization within American Politics is open. The successful candidate will be expected to teach an introductory course in American politics and upper-division courses in political behavior and/or political institutions (other than the judiciary), as well as courses in the candidate’s areas of expertise. The ability to contribute to the department’s research methods sequence is highly desirable. Oakland University operates on the semester system, and the standard teaching load is five courses per academic year. Minimum Qualifications Candidates with their Ph.D. in hand are preferred, but candidates who are ABD will also be considered, provided that they can demonstrate they are near completion of the dissertation. Candidates should demonstrate the potential for a productive scholarly research program, excellence in undergraduate teaching, and a commitment to advising and mentoring undergraduate research. Special Instructions to Applicants Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, writing sample, unofficial graduate transcripts, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and contact information for at least three references through Oakland University’s online application system. Once all required application materials have been uploaded through the online system, references will be contacted through the online system to submit confidential letters of recommendation. Applicants may also submit teaching evaluations, a writing sample, and a research statement. Review of applications will begin on October 12, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Terri L. Towner, American Politics Search Chair, at towner@oakland.edu. School/College & Department/Program Summary The Department of Political Science, housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, offers undergraduate degree programs in Political Science (B.A.), International Relations (B.A.), and Public Administration and Public Policy (B.S.), as well as a NASPAA -accredited Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) program. The Department also conducts applied research for public and nonprofit agencies through the Public Affairs Research Laboratory. More About Oakland University The University is located on 1,443 acres of scenic land in the cities of Rochester Hills and Auburn Hills in Oakland County, Michigan. The University offers 142 bachelor’s degree programs and 138 graduate degree and certificate programs. Academics include programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Services, School of Engineering and Computer Science, School of Health Sciences, School of Medicine and School of Nursing. As an anchor institution in southeastern Michigan that is dedicated to building ongoing, collaborative relationships, Oakland University embraces community and civic engagement to enhance the lives of its students and positively impact the broader community. Learn more about Oakland University’s Mission & Vision and Strategic Plan . Pay Basis Open Date 08/26/2026 Open Until Filled Yes Job Category Full-time Faculty EEO Statement Oakland University is an Equal Opportunity institution.