Job Summary
The Department of Political Science at the University of Colorado Boulder invites applications for a tenure-track position at the Assistant or Associate Professor level in the area of the future of global inequalities, beginning in fall 2027. This thematic, cross-subfield position seeks a candidate whose research addresses inequality, broadly construed. We especially welcome applicants whose work engages topics such as technology, democracy and rights, Global South politics, Indigenous governance, climate and development, and the intersections of race, ethnicity, and gender in political life. A successful candidate will contribute to both undergraduate and graduate instruction and mentoring, have a strong methodological background, develop an innovative and externally fundable research agenda, and show willingness to collaborate with interdisciplinary initiatives and programs.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
CU Political Science department comprises roughly 30 full-time faculty, over 1,000 undergraduate majors, about 50 Ph.D. students, and three full-time staff members. We provide students with a rigorous education and conduct influential research in all subfields of the discipline.
For more information about our department, please visit our web site: https://www.colorado.edu/polisci/
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
40% teaching, 40% scholarly and creative work, and 20% leadership and service
What You Should Know
- Candidates being considered for appointment at the Associate Professor or Professor rank must meet University standards and unit criteria for tenure and promotion to the designated rank. These criteria generally include having an established and ongoing program of original research, a strong publication record, a demonstrated ability to obtain external funding, and a record of high-quality teaching and mentoring.
- The University of Colorado Boulder’s campus has implemented a reference check program with respect to final candidates for tenured faculty appointments. All final candidates for tenured faculty appointments are required to complete an Authorization to Release Information.
What We Can Offer
- $100,000-$105,000 for Assistant Rank, $128,000-$150,000 for Associate Rank
- Startup, moving, and recruitment incentive funds may be available to the successful candidate, subject to department guidelines.
Benefits
At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. In fact, CU Boulder has been named one of Forbes' America's Best Large Employers, ranking #4 among large employers in Colorado and #28 among universities nationwide. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
Be Statements
Be creative. Be impactful. Be Boulder.
What We Require
Ph.D. in Political Science or a related field is required. ABD candidates are welcome to apply, but the Ph.D. Degree must be conferred as of August 1, 2027.
What You Will Need
The successful candidate will have the knowledge and skills necessary to teach undergraduate and graduate courses. They will also have the ability to conduct high-quality political science research that is publishable in professional peer-reviewed outlets.
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
- Resume/CV
- Cover Letter
- (optional) Teaching/Course Evaluations
- (optional) Statement of Teaching Philosophy
- (optional) Statement of Research Philosophy
During the application process you will be asked to provide contact information for three references who will be asked to provide letters of recommendation immediately after you apply.
For full consideration, please apply by October 26, 2026. Position will remain open until November 11, 2026.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Posting Contact Information
Posting Contact Name: Megan Shannon
Posting Contact Email: megan.l.shannon@colorado.edu
The reference check program is intended to allow CU Boulder to collect and review information about a candidate's conduct at their previous institutions, specifically conduct related to sexual misconduct, harassment, and/or discrimination – before making hiring decisions.
