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Phd In Political Science Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

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Research Development PhD Engineering Intern

Lexington, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Company Summary Statement As one of the largest investor-owned utility companies in the United ... Uses engineering and scientific principles to plan projects, collect and analyze data, and create ...

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Phd In Political Science information

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$24.4K

$48.1K

$78.5K

How much do phd in political science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in political science in Lexington, KY is $48,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,300.00 and $51,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in Political Science?

A PhD in Political Science is the highest academic degree in the field, focusing on advanced research, analysis, and theory related to governments, political processes, public policies, and political behavior. Students in these programs typically complete coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research culminating in a dissertation. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, policy analysis, or governmental and non-governmental organizations.

What career paths are commonly pursued by individuals with a PhD in Political Science outside of academia?

While many with a PhD in Political Science pursue academic careers, there are also diverse opportunities in government agencies, think tanks, international organizations, nonprofit sectors, and private consulting firms. These roles often involve policy analysis, research, program evaluation, and advising on legislative or diplomatic strategies. Developing strong analytical, writing, and communication skills during your PhD can help you transition into these sectors, where collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and stakeholders is common. Networking and internships during your doctoral studies can further enhance your prospects in non-academic career paths.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Political Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD in Political Science, you need advanced research skills, expertise in political theories, and a doctoral degree in the field. Proficiency with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS, Stata, or R), academic databases, and citation management tools is typical. Strong written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are vital for producing impactful research, publishing in academic journals, and contributing to policy or academic environments.

What is the difference between Phd In Political Science vs Political Analyst?

AspectPhd In Political SciencePolitical Analyst
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in Political ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Political Science, related fields, or equivalent experience
Work EnvironmentAcademia, research institutions, think tanksGovernment agencies, media outlets, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizationsMedia, government, policy organizations
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic & research focusPractical policy analysis & media commentary

The main difference is that a Phd In Political Science is an advanced academic qualification preparing individuals for research, teaching, or scholarly work, while a Political Analyst applies political science knowledge to analyze current events, policies, and trends for media, government, or consulting roles. Both roles require strong understanding of political systems, but their career paths and work environments differ significantly.

How much do people with a PhD in political science make?

Individuals with a PhD in political science often work as university professors, researchers, or policy analysts. Salaries vary by position and experience, but median annual earnings for political science professors range from $70,000 to over $120,000, with those in tenured roles or in government and think tanks earning higher salaries.

Is it worth getting a PhD in political science?

A PhD in political science prepares individuals for academic, research, or policy analysis careers, often requiring strong analytical and writing skills. While it can lead to specialized roles, it typically involves several years of study and may have limited direct entry-level opportunities outside academia or research institutions.

What are popular job titles related to Phd In Political Science jobs in Lexington, KY?

For Phd In Political Science jobs in Lexington, KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd In Political Science jobs in Lexington, KY look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd In Political Science jobs in Lexington, KY are:

Phd In Political Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd In Political Science job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,096 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Full-Time Instructor

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

314th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Job Title Full-Time Instructor Requisition Number FE04888 Working Title Department Name 8E110:Political Science Work Location Lexington, KY Type of Position Faculty Position Time Status Full-Time Tenure Track Status Non-Tenure Track Required Education
PhD in Political Science as of August 1, 2026. Those with advanced degrees closely related to the teaching responsibilities (e.g., JD) may also be considered.
Required Related Experience
None
Required License/Registration/Certification
None
Job Summary
Temporary Full-Time Instructor in Political Science
Department of Political Science
University of Kentucky

The Department of Political Science in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky invites applications for a temporary Full-Time Instructor for the 2026-2027 academic year, to begin August 1, 2026. This position requires teaching four Political Science and/or Law and Justice courses each semester (fall and spring), with a primary focus on American political and legal institutions.

Applicants should have extensive teaching experience as well as a PhD in Political Science as of August 1, 2026. Those with advanced degrees closely related to the teaching responsibilities (e.g., JD) may also be considered.

Applicants must include the following: 1) letter of application (upload as Cover Letter), 2) CV, and 3) Teaching statement (upload as Specific Request 1). In addition, please provide the names and contact information of three references when prompted in the academic profile. This information will be utilized to solicit recommendation letters from your references within the employment system.
Questions about this search should be addressed to Dr. Michael Zilis, Department Chair, Department of Political Science, University of Kentucky (Michael.zilis@uky.edu).
Review of applications will begin on April 20, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Multiple positions available. 

Employment at UK is subject to fund availability and comes with rewards, focusing on your total well-being and career development, with leadership striving to provide a strong work-life integration. The university generously contributes to employees' retirement plans, medical coverage, and life insurance. In addition, UK offers optional benefits such as dental and vision insurance, additional retirement plans and much more. To learn more about these benefits, please visit: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/our-benefits.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience Deadline to Apply Open Until Filled Yes Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

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The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865

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