Assistant Professor of Political Science, Tenure Track

Position Overview

The Department of Political Science at Vassar College invites applications for a tenure-track position in Political Science at the Assistant Professor rank beginning in the 2027-28 academic year. We are seeking a dynamic, innovative scholar to fill a position in American Politics with a focus on Constitutional Law.

About the Role

The successful candidate will contribute to the further development of Vassar's Political Science curriculum, advise students, and serve on college and program committees. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Political Science or related field at the time of appointment.

Areas of Interest

We are interested in key constitutional law issues, including such competencies as:

• Civil Rights and Liberties
• Executive Authority/Power
• Federalism

Responsibilities

• Teach introductory, intermediate, and advanced courses in the American Politics subfield; these may be cross-listed in one or more of the Multidisciplinary Programs
• Contribute to the further development of Vassar's Political Science curriculum
• Advise students
• Serve on college and program committees

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Political Science or related field at the time of appointment

Teaching Load

The teaching load in the first year is four courses, and in subsequent years is either five courses or four classroom courses plus one "intensive," a small enrollment, closely mentored experience for undergraduates.

Application Materials

• Cover Letter & CV
• Teaching Statement
• Community Impact Statement
• Graduate School Transcripts (unofficial copy is acceptable at the time of application)
• Course evaluation material
• Writing Sample
• Contact information for three references who will provide reference letters upon request

Pay

The annual base starting salary range for this position is $96,000 to $106,000 (USD). This range includes new faculty appointments beginning the first year of a standard tenure clock as well as Assistant Professors with previous tenure-line experience who will be on an accelerated tenure clock. When extending an offer of employment, Vassar College considers factors such as (but not limited to) candidate's education/training, work experience, internal peer equity, as well as market and organizational considerations. The starting salary for an Assistant Professor in this position with a PhD beginning the first year of a standard tenure clock in Fall 2027 is $100,000.

Schedule

Review of applicant materials will begin on October 15, 2026 and will continue until the position has been filled.