The Department of Political Science at Southwestern University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Political Science position beginning August 2024. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in political science (ABD will be considered) and specialize in political theory. While we are open to a range of subfields within theory, we are especially interested in applicants whose scholarly and teaching interests intersect with existing departmental strengths in political behavior, representation, and racial/ethnic politics. ​​We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented backgrounds who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community to apply.

Successful applicants will demonstrate a commitment to excellence and inclusivity in undergraduate teaching and a willingness to foster undergraduate research. The typical teaching load is five courses per year; this will include our introductory political theory course and at least one other course that is accessible to nonmajors. Campus-wide responsibilities include advising students and university service.

The Political Science Department and Southwestern University are committed to recruiting candidates who both excel in teaching and research/creative work and can best serve our diverse student population. As of the fall 2022 semester, 36% of students enrolled at Southwestern were members of groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education and we are committed to further increasing and supporting the diversity of our students, faculty and curriculum. The Department seeks candidates who have a demonstrated commitment to, and will take an active role in, enhancing diversity, inclusion, and equity across the University, including fostering a sense of community and belonging for students. In your application materials, please include specific and detailed information about how you have worked to enhance diversity and inclusion through your teaching practices, research, and/or service experiences within the college or university setting.

To apply, candidates should submit the following information by September 15, 2023, to Interfolio http://apply.interfolio.com/128923:

• a cover letter
• a C.V.
• a teaching statement
• brief descriptions of 2-3 possible courses and/or sample syllabi
• a research statement

We will be speaking with interested candidates at the APSA Annual Meeting; to set up an appointment or ask questions about this position, please contact the department chair, Emily Sydnor (sydnore@southwestern.edu). Additional materials, including three letters of recommendation, will be requested from selected candidates later in the process. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Southwestern University (Georgetown, Texas) is a selective undergraduate residential liberal arts institution located in the greater Austin area. Established in 1840, Southwestern enrolls approximately 1,500 students and maintains a student–faculty ratio of 11 to 1. The university provides a highly interdisciplinary and holistic education that values high-impact learning experiences, such as study abroad, internships, and faculty-student research. A member of the recently formed Liberal Arts Colleges Racial Equity Leadership Alliance, Southwestern is committed to fostering a diverse educational environment and encourages applications from members of groups traditionally underrepresented in academia. Additional information about the university can be found at our website: www.southwestern.edu.

Southwestern University is committed to inclusive excellence that provides access and support, enables participation, and removes barriers so that all people within our community are empowered and can thrive in a campus that is welcoming and validating. Inclusion is the deliberate effort to create an environment in which people from all backgrounds - including but not limited to people of color (race, ethnicity, nationality), sex, sexual identity, gender identity, age, physical and mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, religion, immigrants, and the intersection of these identities - are not only included but welcomed, valued, respected, considered, and supported within our community. People from marginalized (i.e., devalued) and/or minoritized (i.e, underrepresented) groups are heard, seen, respected and accepted in all aspects of our community.

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time appointment begins. Sponsorship for an employment-based visa may be an option depending upon university needs and the applicant’s qualifications.

All offers of employment are contingent on successful completion of the University’s Background Check Policy process. Southwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Southwestern University is an E-Verify Employer. EOE/M/F

Jeanne Clery Statement: Notice of Availability of Annual Security and Fire Safety Report— Southwestern University Annual Safety and Fire Report is available online at https://www.southwestern.edu/life-at-southwestern/safety-security/annual-security-reports/ containing mandated information about current campus policies concerning safety and security issues, required statistics, and other related information for the past three calendar years. To obtain a paper copy of the report, please call 512-863-1435.