Assistant Professor of Political Science - Law & Society (27/28)

About the Role

California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), San Luis Obispo, invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor position in the Political Science Department, specializing in law and society or law and politics, beginning approximately August 12, 2027.

The successful candidate will teach core undergraduate courses in law, such as Constitutional Law, Judicial Process, Jurisprudence, and others. Preference will be given to candidates with teaching and research interests in social justice issues.

The typical teaching load is 12 units per semester, with a reduction in course load in each of the first two years to help new faculty establish an active program of research and professional development. Faculty are expected to balance teaching with an active research program, student supervision and advising, and participation in service activities at the department and college/university level.

Subject to further planning and approval, Cal Poly anticipates a possible transition to semester-based year-round operations (YRO). Under YRO, full-time academic year faculty may be assigned to teach in two consecutive semesters (Fall/Spring, Spring/Summer, or Summer/Fall) out of the three semesters offered annually. The two-semester sequence will constitute the regular academic year appointment. Faculty may also be eligible to teach in the third semester for additional compensation, subject to departmental needs and University policy.

Responsibilities

• Teach core undergraduate courses in law, such as Constitutional Law, Judicial Process, and Jurisprudence.
• Maintain an active research program and engage in professional development, including publication.
• Supervise and advise students.
• Participate in service activities at the department and college/university level.
• Foster a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive learning environment.

Requirements

• An earned doctorate (Ph.D.) in Political Science or a related field from an accredited institution or international equivalent is required at the time of appointment. Candidates nearing completion of the doctorate (ABD) may be considered but must provide proof that the doctorate will be awarded prior to the start of the appointment.
• Evidence of strong teaching skills and an active research program.
• Demonstrated university teaching experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency in written and oral use of the English language.

Preferred Qualifications

• Teaching and research interest in social justice issues.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and foster a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment.
• Demonstrated experience and commitment to student-centered learning and teaching.
• Demonstrated ability to collaboratively work in multidisciplinary settings.
• Relevant work experience and professional capabilities.

Pay

Anticipated hiring range: $90,276 - $98,244 per year ($7,523 - $8,187 per month). Note that the hiring level will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the candidate.

About the Department

The Cal Poly Political Science Department prides itself on its collegiality and commitment to excellence in teaching and scholarship. The department serves approximately 320 majors, 220 minors, and 25 graduate students. At the undergraduate level, the department offers concentrations in U.S. Politics, Global Politics, Pre-Law, and Individualized Courses of Study, as well as minors in Law & Society, Political Science, and Global Politics. It also administers a Master of Public Policy Program.

Special Conditions

• The person holding this position is considered a 'mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and must comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083.
• A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate may start work. Failure to complete the background check may result in the withdrawal of the offer of employment.
• Cal Poly cannot deny an applicant a position solely or in part due to a criminal conviction history until it has performed an individualized assessment linking the relevant conviction history with specific job duties.
• Faculty are expected to establish an on-campus presence to fulfill their responsibilities.
• Cal Poly is a smoke- and tobacco-free campus.