Assistant Professor, Political Science

The Department of Political Science at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA, invites applications for a full-time tenure-track position, at the rank of Assistant Professor. The Department invites applications from scholars in any political science subfield whose research and teaching examine the intersection of artificial intelligence and politics and who can offer undergraduate and graduate courses in political methodology, including causal inference. Relevant areas of research and teaching include, but are not limited to, the uses of AI by governments, politicians, or candidates; the effects of AI on political institutions, disinformation, public discourse, or political behavior; the regulation of AI technologies; the political economy or geopolitics of AI; the role of AI in political violence and its effects on democracy; or the development of social science methodologies related to artificial intelligence.

About the role

The Assistant Professor will have demonstrated ability as a researcher and a promising research agenda with a focus on artificial intelligence and political science. The candidate should show potential for excellence in instruction and mentoring at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Promise for securing external research funding is also desirable. This position will include resident and online teaching and normal university service. The teaching load during the academic year is four courses. Onsite teaching is an essential function of this job. Duties will involve a combination of teaching, research, and service, based on the candidate’s qualifications.

Requirements

A Ph.D. in Political Science or related field is required by the appointment date.

Qualifications

The candidate should demonstrate expertise in the intersection of artificial intelligence and politics, and have a strong commitment to teaching and mentoring.

Skills

Strong skills in research, teaching, and mentoring are required. Experience with political methodology, particularly causal inference, is preferred.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $70,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

Schedule

The teaching load during the academic year is four courses. Onsite teaching is an essential function of this job.