Political Science Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description
The University of Chicago Division of the Social Sciences invites applications for appointment as Instructional Professor (IP) at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor, with a specialization in Political Science, in the Master of Arts Program in the Social Sciences (https://mapss.uchicago.edu). We invite applications from candidates across the full range of fields within the discipline. Areas of expertise that are of particular interest to MAPSS include quantitative methods, qualitative methods, and identity.
This is a full-time, career track teaching and advising position that involves designing graduate seminars, mentoring students on research projects, and helping a diverse range of students navigate graduate school. The initial three-year appointment will begin in Academic Year 2026-27 and is renewable with opportunity for promotion. Academic rank and compensation (including a generous package of fringe benefits) are dependent upon qualifications.
MAPSS is a one-year program providing students with a foundation in graduate-level interdisciplinary social science research. Students concentrate in psychology, anthropology, history, political science, sociology, or in interdisciplinary research, and conduct research projects under the supervision of UChicago faculty or MAPSS IPs. MAPSS recruits talented students from a wide array of backgrounds, experiences, and trajectories. Some go on to doctoral study after MAPSS, but most use the degree to advance their careers with the help of an in-house Career Services team.
IP at UChicago teach up to 6 courses per year. In MAPSS, IP have an annual teaching load of 4 courses, in addition to substantial mentoring and service responsibilities. Their courses include one section of the MAPSS core social theory course "Perspectives in Social Science Analysis," and other courses oriented toward MA and/or undergraduate students, according to program need. This often includes a graduate seminar introducing an important social science research methodology.
MAPSS IP perform substantive roles as preceptors, a position that involves advising students on quarterly course selection and independent research projects, supervising capstone projects, serving as second readers on student theses, and providing broad academic and professional guidance to a cohort of master's students in office hours. They also closely advise students and alumni who are applying to PhD programs.
MAPSS IP fulfill a range of service requirements. They participate in admissions and recruiting as well as other co-curricular academic programming. They hire and manage teaching assistants, participate in staff meetings, and contribute to program operations, including participating in the student academic conference or serving on decision-making committees (e.g. student prizes).
The position includes support for professional development, including funds to attend conferences and workshops, as well as mentoring from senior members of the MAPSS instructional team. The position also offers opportunities to participate in the intellectual life of the University.
Qualifications
Applicants must have a PhD in Political Science or in a related discipline prior to the start date. Prior teaching in the social sciences is required. Experience mentoring students on original research projects is preferred.
Application Instructions
Applicants must apply online at the University of Chicago's Interfolio academic job board at https://apply.interfolio.com/177115.
The following required application materials must be submitted through Interfolio:
1) a cover letter, outlining the applicant's prior training and research experience, their prior teaching and/or mentoring experience, and their suggested course offerings; 2) a curriculum vitae; 3) a doctoral transcript (unofficial is acceptable); 4) an article-length writing sample; 5) at least one course syllabus designed by the candidate; 6) course evaluations or other evidence of past experience teaching or mentoring; 7) a teaching statement; and 8) three letters of recommendation.
Review of applications will begin on March 2, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled or the search is closed.
This position is benefits-eligible. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
This position will be part of the Service Employees International Union.