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Assistant Professor Political Science Jobs in Washington

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Assistant Professor

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $115K/yr

... Science, and Mechanical Engineering. The Department of Architecture at Howard University ... political affiliation, gender identity, or any other classification, activities, or conditions ...

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Assistant Professor Political Science information

See Washington salary details

$48.1K

$90.7K

$152.9K

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor political science in Washington is $90,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $103,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Washington?

For Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Assistant Professor Political Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Political Science job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,672 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Executive Director, Loeb Institute & Tenured Professor of Political Science

George Washington University

Washington, DC • On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


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Job description

Recruitment Plan
I. RECRUITMENT PLAN
Posting Number:
F002585
Academic Title:
Executive Director, Loeb Institute & Tenured Professor of Political Science
Rank:
Associate Professor, Professor
Administrative Title:
Executive Director, Loeb Institute
Discipline
Social Sciences
Specialty:
Contract Type:
With Tenure
Required Licenses/Certifications and other Specific Requirements:
Criminal History Screening, Education/Degree/Certifications Verification, Social Security Number Trace, and Sex Offender Registry Search
Proposed Start Date:
08/01/2026
Full-Time/Part-Time:
Full-Time
Position Description Summary:
The George Washington University invites applications for a dual-appointment leadership position: Executive Director of the Ambassador John L. Loeb, Jr. Institute for Religious Freedom and Democracy and Tenured Professor (Associate/Full Professor) in the Department of Political Science. We seek a distinguished scholar specializing in Religion and Politics to lead the Institute's academic mission and public engagement. This position begins as early as Fall 2026.
The RoleThe successful candidate will serve as the intellectual and administrative head of the Loeb Institute while maintaining a robust faculty presence within the Department of Political Science. This is a full-time, tenured appointment.
Executive Director of the Loeb Institute:
Housed within the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences (CCAS), the Loeb Institute serves as a premier center for academic collaboration. It is dedicated to fostering dialogue on religious understanding and the separation of church and state, inspired by George Washington's words: "to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance."
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
As the Executive Director:
  • Intellectual Leadership: Provide the vision for the Institute's scholarly activities, ensuring it remains a leading hub for research on religious freedom and its role in democracy.
  • Research Oversight: Oversee the Institute's core initiatives, faculty research grants, and student fellowships.
  • Programmatic Stewardship: Direct the Institute's public-facing work, including symposia, academic conferences, and educator workshops designed to bridge the gap between scholarly research and public understanding.
  • Administrative Management: Oversee the Institute's staff, budget, and daily operations to support its mission of interdisciplinary collaboration across religion, peace studies, history, and political science.

As Professor of Political Science:
  • Scholarship: Maintain an active, theoretically-oriented research agenda in the field of Religion and Politics, evidenced by a high-impact record of peer-reviewed publications.
  • Teaching & Mentorship: Teach graduate and undergraduate courses in political science and mentor students within the department.
  • Service: Participate in the life of the Department of Political Science and the broader University through service and academic leadership.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education: A Ph.D. or doctoral degree in Political Science or a closely related field is required.
Academic Standing: A record of research sufficient to merit a tenured appointment at the rank of Associate or Full Professor.
Subject Matter Expertise: Deep scholarly knowledge and active research agenda on religion and democracy, religious freedom, or church-state relations.
Leadership Experience: Demonstrated experience in academic administration, including strategic planning, program development, and collaborating across diverse academic disciplines.
Advertised Salary:
$140000 - $175000
Other Benefits:
The successful applicant will be eligible for GW's employee benefits including medical, dental, and retirement. A full explanation of those benefits is available at https://hr.gwu.edu/benefits
Other Information:
The university and department have a strong commitment to recruiting faculty of the highest caliber who have thrived in different environments and would enrich the university with different experiences and perspectives.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
WittKieffer is assisting The George Washington University in this search. To apply, submit an online application through Wittkieffer: Endowed Directorship for the Loeb Institute | WittKieffer.
Applicants must upload a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile, CV or resume, a research statement, and a teaching statement. Review of applications will begin on March 31, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Only complete applications will be considered.
Nominations and inquiries can be directed to Melody Rose, Ph.D. and Maya Holt-Brockenbrough, Ph.D. at GWULoebDirector@wittkieffer.com
Department Link:
https://politicalscience.columbian.gwu.edu
Posting Close Date:
Open Until Filled:
Yes
Background Screening
Successful Completion of a Background Screening will be required as a condition of hire.
EEO Statement:
The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.
Quick Link
https://www.gwu.jobs/postings/124064

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About George Washington University

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George Washington University (GWU) is not a traditional company, but an esteemed hub of higher education nestled in the heart of Washington, DC, US. Established in 1821 through an Act of Congress, fulfilling George Washington's vision of an institution in the nation's capital dedicated to educating future leaders. Within the education sector, the university provides a range of products and services, such as undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, and various research programs across diverse disciplines. The university is guided by the core values of learning, communication, community, diversity, excellence, respect, service, and teamwork.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1821

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