Assistant Professor of Political Science, Tenure Track

About the role

Department

Political Science

Decisions concerning employment are made on the basis of an individual’s qualifications to contribute to meeting Vassar College’s educational objectives and its institutional needs, which includes promoting a respect for difference and creating a learning environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive. Candidates who can contribute to these goals through their teaching, research, advising, and other activities are encouraged to identify their strengths and experiences in this area. If you need to request an accommodation to fully participate in the search process, please contact

Position Introduction

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.

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic, innovative scholar to fill a position in American Politics with a focus on Constitutional Law. We are interested in key constitutional law issues, including such competencies as Civil Rights and Liberties, Executive Authority/Power, and Federalism. 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. The successful candidate will teach introductory, intermediate, as well as advanced courses in the American Politics subfield. These may be cross-listed in one or more of the Multidisciplinary Programs. 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. Note: Candidates will be prompted for the contact information following the submission of the application

How to Apply

Review of applicant materials will begin on October 15, 2026 and will continue until the position has been filled. There is no guarantee that applications received after October 15, 2026 will be reviewed.

Pay Transparency Disclosure

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. This salary range represents the College’s good faith and reasonable estimate at the time of posting.

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.