Assistant Professor of Political Science

Reporting to the Dean of the College of Arts Sciences, the Assistant Professor of Political Science is a full-time tenure-track position beginning in Fall 2026. The Political Science Department seeks applicants who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, will pursue an active research agenda, engage in academic advising, and contribute to campus and professional service. The ideal candidate would hold a Ph.D. in Political Science with the ability to teach a broad array of classes across the discipline.

This position will have a teaching load of 3-4 courses per semester. Candidates must be able to teach American Government, Foreign Government and Politics, and electives in both American politics and international relations/comparative politics. The candidate should be prepared to engage students in experiential learning within their area of expertise and contribute to the department's course offerings in the general education curriculum. The candidate would also be expected to contribute to the Foundations and Transformations program by teaching either ASC 101 or 400. The ability to contribute to the Masters of Public Administration program or interdisciplinary offerings would be a plus.

This faculty member will be responsible for advising International Relations and Political Science majors. They will be expected to contribute to the department's commitment to experiential learning and political engagement and mentor students in undergraduate research experiences not only in Senior Research but also in activities like the Summer Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity (SURCA) program. They will be actively engaged in recruiting students by discussing their high impact practices at events such as Widener Days and Accepted Student Days. Finally, they will be responsible for helping to refresh the Political Science curriculum.

The Political Science Department is committed to fostering an environment in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. Those candidates experienced in or who would enjoy working with a diverse range of faculty, staff, and students and those who can contribute to the climate of inclusivity are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vita, statement of teaching philosophy, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and a statement of research philosophy. Additionally, three confidential letters of reference must be sent. Applications will be reviewed starting February 1.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to):

• Essential duties:

• Teaching: Design and deliver lectures to undergraduate and graduate students in areas such as Political Theory, International Relations, and American Politics. Develop course materials and assessments that foster critical thinking and content mastery. Evaluate student performance and provide constructive feedback. Teach in various formats including in-person and online modalities. Maintain regular weekly office hours to provide academic support and guidance to students enrolled in assigned courses.
• Research: Conduct independent and collaborative research in political science or related fields. Publish scholarly work in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at academic conferences. Seek external funding and grants to support research initiatives.
• Mentorship: Advise and mentor undergraduate and potentially graduate students. Support student development through one-on-one advising, group mentoring sessions, and independent study and research projects.
• Service: Participate in departmental faculty meetings focused on departmental operations and planning, faculty development including pedagogical strategies and student support initiatives, and other university committees. Attend division, College, and University faculty meetings and contribute to academic governance. Engage in initiatives that enhance the university community and promote interdisciplinary collaboration. Contribute to the broader university community through various initiatives and activities.

Secondary Responsibilities:

Perform other job-related duties as assigned or directed to support departmental needs and align with the mission of the Department of Political Science, the College of Arts Sciences, and the University.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):

• Required: Ph.D. in Political Science or a related field. ABD candidates with a degree conferred before July 2026 will be considered. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Experience and a commitment to excellence in teaching at the college level. Commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging in teaching, research, and service.
• Preferred: PhD in Political Science or terminal degree in related field.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:

Must be available for in-person instruction. Must be able to sit for extended periods while working at a computer or grading papers and the ability to stand for longer durations while lecturing in a classroom. Must have the ability to speak clearly and audibly to deliver lectures, facilitate classroom discussions, and interact with students and colleagues. Must have the ability to move around campus to attend meetings and teach in different classrooms. Minimal lifting may be involved for tasks such as carrying materials to class or moving books.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, colour, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. They are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, colour, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran. U.S. work authorization is required.

Widener University, an independent metropolitan doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention, and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener's main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA, and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington.