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Assistant Professor Political Science Jobs in Iowa

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Assistant Professor Political Science information

See Iowa salary details

$39.9K

$75.2K

$126.8K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor political science in Iowa is $75,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,400.00 and $85,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAssistant Professor Political ScienceLecturer Political Science
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Political Science or related fieldMaster's degree often sufficient; PhD preferred
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research, teachingPrimarily teaching-focused, often contract-based
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, research institutionsUniversities, colleges, community colleges
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between an Assistant Professor Political Science and a Lecturer Political Science lies in their credentials, job responsibilities, and employment status. Assistant Professors typically hold a PhD, engage in research alongside teaching, and have a tenure-track position. Lecturers usually focus primarily on teaching, often with a master's degree, and may work on contract or part-time. Both roles are common in academic settings, but Assistant Professors are more involved in research and long-term academic career development.

What does an assistant professor of political science do?

An Assistant Professor of Political Science teaches undergraduate and sometimes graduate courses in political science, conducts research in their area of expertise, and publishes scholarly work. They also advise students, participate in departmental and university service, and may apply for research grants. This position is typically an entry-level, tenure-track faculty role at a college or university.

What are some typical challenges assistant professors of political science face during the tenure-track period?

Assistant Professors in Political Science often balance teaching, research, and service commitments, which can be demanding, especially during the tenure-track years. Managing a heavy teaching load while producing high-quality, publishable research is a common challenge. Additionally, building a professional network, securing research funding, and actively participating in departmental service or committees are essential for career advancement. Developing a clear research agenda and seeking mentorship from senior faculty can help navigate these challenges and set a strong foundation for tenure review.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor of political science, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Political Science, you generally need a Ph.D. in political science or a closely related field, along with a strong record of research and teaching. Familiarity with academic research databases, statistical analysis software such as SPSS or Stata, and learning management systems like Canvas or Blackboard is typically required. Excellent communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help foster student engagement and contribute to a collegial academic environment. These competencies are essential for effective teaching, advancing research, and building a positive reputation within the academic community.
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Iowa? For Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Iowa are:
Assistant Professor Political Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Political Science job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,195 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Assistant Teaching Professor in Political Science

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

383rd of 616 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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