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Postdoctoral Position Political Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do postdoctoral position political science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral position political science in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral position in political science?

A postdoctoral position in political science is a temporary academic role intended for individuals who have recently completed their Ph.D. in political science or a related field. Postdocs typically conduct independent research, collaborate with faculty, publish scholarly work, and may teach courses. These positions help researchers deepen their expertise, develop new skills, and prepare for permanent academic or policy-oriented careers. Postdoctoral appointments usually last from one to three years and are often funded by universities, research institutes, or external grants.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers in political science, and how can they be addressed?

Postdoctoral researchers in political science often face challenges such as securing independent research funding, balancing teaching responsibilities with research output, and establishing a professional network. Navigating the transition from doctoral studies to a more autonomous research role can also be demanding. To address these challenges, it's helpful to seek mentorship from senior faculty, actively participate in conferences, and collaborate across departments or institutions to broaden research impact and networking opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Political Science, you need a Ph.D. in political science or a closely related field, along with expertise in research design, data analysis, and academic publishing. Familiarity with statistical software (such as Stata, R, or SPSS), qualitative analysis tools, and experience with academic databases are typically required. Strong written communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help you excel in publishing, grant writing, and interdisciplinary projects. These skills are crucial for producing impactful research, securing funding, and advancing your academic career.
More about Postdoctoral Position Political Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Position Political Science jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Position Political Science job openings:
What states have the most Postdoctoral Position Political Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Position Political Science jobs include:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Position Political Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Weatherhead Scholars Program Postdoctoral Fellowship in International Affairs

Weatherhead Scholars Program Postdoctoral Fellowship in International Affairs

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


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Job description

Position
Details
Title
Weatherhead Scholars Program Postdoctoral Fellowship in International Affairs
School
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department/Area
Weatherhead Center for International Affairs
Position Description
The Weatherhead Scholars Program at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs invites applications for its 2027-2028 Postdoctoral Fellowship, a one-year, residential opportunity for early-career scholars working on international, comparative, transnational, or global issues in the social sciences.
Postdoctoral Fellows join a multidisciplinary cohort-including visiting faculty and practitioner fellows-in residence at Harvard University for the academic year. The program fosters a dynamic intellectual community through a weekly seminar, professional development workshops, and engagement with the broader Weatherhead Center and Harvard communities. Fellows are expected to be on campus from late August through mid-May and to actively participate in program activities. The Postdoctoral Fellow may be invited to teach a Harvard class during the course of their appointment.
About the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs
The Weatherhead Center is Harvard's largest international research center, supporting rigorous scholarship on global, comparative, transnational, and international issues. Founded in 1958, the Center brings together faculty, fellows, and students from across the University to address pressing global challenges, including conflict and governance, inequality, environmental change, migration, and international development. It serves as an interdisciplinary hub for research, exchange, and public dialogue.
About the Weatherhead Scholars Program
The Weatherhead Scholars Program is a flagship initiative of the Center that brings together a intellectually diverse, international cohort of postdoctoral researchers, visiting faculty, and practitioner fellows for a year-long residency. Fellows pursue independent research while participating in a weekly seminar, professional development sessions, and collaborative programming across the Center. The program cultivates a vibrant intellectual community that bridges academia and practice, drawing scholars from a wide range of disciplines and professional backgrounds-including government, journalism, diplomacy, civil society, and academia.
FundingFunded Postdoctoral Fellows will receive a stipend of $70,000, paid over twelve months. If you hold outside funding and wish to be considered, please note this in your cover letter and an email to Walid Hammam, Director of the Weatherhead Scholars Program.
Basic Qualifications
Applicants must have received a PhD within the past three calendar years in a relevant field, such as political science, sociology, anthropology, history, economics, psychology, public policy, international relations, or climate/environmental studies. The PhD must be conferred before the fellowship start date. Preference is given to recent graduates who have not previously held a postdoctoral position.
Applicants with external funding are welcome to apply but must undergo the same review process. Please email the Director of the Weatherhead Scholars Program at walid_hammam@wcfia.harvard.edu
Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS October 8, 2026. PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A LIST OF FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
Letters of Recommendation
The application will ask for the name and contact information of your references. Once your application is submitted, the system will automatically email your recommender with instructions for uploading their letter. The deadline for letters of recommendation is October 15, 2026. You may track the status of your letter through the application portal. We recommend submitting your application in advance of the deadline to ensure your recommender has sufficient time.
Contact Information
Walid Hammam
Director, Weatherhead Scholars Program
Weatherhead Center for International Affairs
Harvard University
Please see the Weatherhead Scholars Program website and Frequently Asked Questions before contacting.
Contact Email
walid_hammam@wcfia.harvard.edu
Salary Range
$70,000
Minimum Number of References Required
2
Maximum Number of References Allowed
3
Keywords
Democracy and Governance, Migration and Refugees, Political Economy, International Development, Global Security, Public Policy, International Relations, International Affairs, Conflict Resolution, Environmental Policy, Sustainable Development, Humanitarian Aid, Diplomacy, Global Health, Transnational Issues, Social Justice, Economic Development, Global Governance, Cultural Diplomacy, Trade and Investment, International Law, Peacebuilding, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Human Rights, International Institutions, Foreign Policy, Civil Society, International Cooperation, War and Peace, Human Security.

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