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Assistant Professor In Political Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Information Position Title Assistant Professor of Political Science Job Summary The ... The successful candidate will play a central role in leading and advancing the department's minor ...

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Assistant Professor In Political Science information

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$42.5K

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How much do assistant professor in political science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor in political science in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Professor in Political Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor in Political Science, you generally need a Ph.D. in political science or a related field, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Familiarity with academic databases, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), and learning management systems is often required. Excellent communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help you engage students and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies are essential for fostering academic excellence, advancing research, and contributing to the academic community.

What are some common challenges faced by an Assistant Professor in Political Science during the first few years, and how can they be addressed?

New Assistant Professors in Political Science often encounter challenges such as balancing teaching responsibilities with research demands, developing new course materials, and building a publication record for tenure. Navigating university service commitments and adapting to departmental culture can also be demanding. These challenges can be managed by seeking mentorship from senior faculty, setting clear research goals, and utilizing campus resources for teaching and professional development. Building collaborative relationships within and outside the department can further ease the transition and support career advancement.

What is an Assistant Professor in Political Science?

An Assistant Professor in Political Science is an entry-level faculty member at a college or university who specializes in teaching and researching topics related to political systems, theory, and government. They are typically on a tenure-track, meaning they may be considered for promotion and permanent status after a probationary period. Assistant Professors are responsible for delivering lectures, conducting original research, publishing scholarly articles, advising students, and participating in academic service. Their goal is to contribute to the academic community and advance knowledge in the field of political science.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor In Political Science vs Lecturer In Political Science?

AspectAssistant Professor In Political ScienceLecturer In Political Science
Required CredentialsDoctorate or Ph.D. in Political ScienceMaster's degree or Ph.D., depending on institution
Work EnvironmentResearch and teaching at universities, involved in academic researchPrimarily teaching-focused, often with less research expectation
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, higher education institutionsUniversities, colleges, sometimes community colleges
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic career paths, qualifications, and rolesClarifying teaching roles and expectations in academia

Assistant Professor In Political Science typically involves a combination of research and teaching, requiring a Ph.D., while Lecturer In Political Science is more focused on teaching, often with less emphasis on research. Both roles are common in higher education, but they differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What cities are hiring for Assistant Professor In Political Science jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Professor In Political Science job openings:
What states have the most Assistant Professor In Political Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Professor In Political Science jobs include:
Assistant Teaching Professor in Political Science

Assistant Teaching Professor in Political Science

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

308th of 532 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:
Assistant Teaching Professor in Political Science
Appointment Type:
Faculty
Job Description:
The Department of Political Science in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University is seeking a term faculty member at the rank of Assistant Teaching Professor to teach in our Law, Justice, and Politics career path and help prepare and mentor pre-law students in the major.
Initial appointment length is three years, starting August 16, 2027. An earlier start date of January 1, 2027 will also be considered. Renewal parameters are determined by performance and department need.
This position involves a courseload of 6 courses per year, which translates to 75% FTE. The successful candidate will be expected to teach three courses in the fall and three courses in the spring each year.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's degree or equivalent in political science or closely related disciplines
  • Minimum of three years of higher education teaching experience in Law, Justice, and Politics or close related disciplines

Preferred Qualifications:
  • PhD in political science or closely related field.
  • Demonstrated ability to teach classes in the Department's Law, Justice and Politics track, including US Constitutional Law.
  • Demonstrated ability to prepare and mentor pre-law students for law school.
  • Demonstrated ability to teach across American politics and political theory subfields.
  • Evidence of teaching excellence.

Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Political Science has 19 Tenure-Track and Term faculty, a vibrant MA program which serves over 20 students, and an undergraduate major with over 200 majors.
Department Unit/Website:
https://pols.iastate.edu
Proposed Start Date:
August 16, 2027
Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
May 15, 2030
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
09 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Part time
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter and Contact Information for Three References (uploaded as one pdf)
3) Teaching Statement
4) Sample syllabi (no more than 3)
5) Student Rating of Teaching scores for classes taught
For guaranteed consideration, please apply before September 1, 2026. Position is open until filled.
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Faculty enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
Original Posting Date:
May 26, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R19287
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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