Postdoctoral researcher in social identity, politics, and computational methods

About the role

The Politics, Identities, and Communication Lab (PICL) at the University of Pennsylvania's Annenberg School for Communication is seeking a postdoctoral researcher specializing in politics, social identity, and computational methods. The successful candidate will work under the supervision and mentorship of Dr. Deen Freelon, PICL’s director.

Responsibilities

• Work on PICL projects under Dr. Freelon's direction
• Devote half of their time to independent projects and collaborations with other research groups
• Build a strong CV under the mentorship of a seasoned innovator in political communication and computational social science

Requirements

• PhD in communication or a related field with expertise in:
• Communication across or relating to lines of social identity
• Computational social science methods
• AI as a social science method
• Development of open-source software tools for research
• Experience analyzing non-textual media types quantitatively, including video, images, and audio
• Political communication
• Experience with Python, R, and/or other relevant programming languages for social science research
• Advanced data visualization skills
• A strong publication record
• Experience leading self-directed research and collaborating with teams under the supervision of a PI
• Interest in establishing professional connections with theoretically and methodologically diverse collaborators

Qualifications

• Desired Qualifications

• Minimum stipend of $67,000 for a 12-month appointment starting in early 2027
• Taxable relocation allowance of up to $1,000 for domestic relocations and up to $2,000 for international relocations
• $3,000 in travel/research expenses
• Eligible for health insurance under the University of Pennsylvania's plans
• Must have a PhD or receive it by December 31, 2026

Benefits

• Health insurance under the University of Pennsylvania's plans

Pay

• Minimum stipend of $67,000 for a 12-month appointment starting in early 2027

Schedule

• 12-month appointment starting in early 2027 (start date negotiable)

Additional Information

• Submit cover page, dissertation supervisor details, defense date, statement of interest, CV, and up to two publications in a single PDF document to dfreelon@upenn.edu by September 30, 2026.
• For additional questions, email dfreelon@upenn.edu.
• The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.