Political Science: Tenure-Track Assistant Professor

Hollins University   Roanoke, VA   Full-time     Education
Posted on April 20, 2024
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(posted 12/11/23)

The Global Politics and Societies (GPS) Department at Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Political Science. This is a full-time position beginning July 1, 2024. Please visit this web page (https://www.hollins.edu/about-hollins/jobs/) to learn more about Hollins; its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice; faculty development; the university's students; and the Roanoke Valley.

Position and Qualifications

The GPS department includes four separate major programs of study in sociology, religious studies, political science, and international studies and one minor program of study in social justice. Each of the programs uses an interdisciplinary approach with some shared courses and collaborative teaching based on the common research and teaching interests of faculty members. Hollins University places a high value on interdisciplinarity in its course offerings.

The ideal candidate will be a broadly trained political scientist or public law specialist with related research and teaching interests. Applicants must be able to teach Introduction to American Government, 200-level courses in American government institutions (presidency, Congress, or judiciary, such as Constitutional Law or the U.S. Justice System), as well as related introductory and upper-level electives in American government. Preferred areas of expertise include race, class, and gender; political parties; elections; and controversial issues to complement existing strengths in the department. The ability to advise pre-law students is also preferred.

The candidate will also be expected to contribute to shared courses in other GPS programs of study and to the Hollins Core Curriculum. Preference will be given to candidates who can also contribute to one or more of the following programs: environmental studies, gender and women's studies, and/or religious studies. The position carries a teaching load of three courses per semester. Other duties include advising students, conducting independent studies, supervising students doing senior research projects, participating in department and university service, and ongoing scholarly activity in the form of publications and presentations.

Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements: a Ph.D. in political science or related GPS discipline by June 30, 2024, a demonstrated commitment to contribute to the discipline through active scholarship, and a strong record of teaching at the undergraduate level. Applicants must also demonstrate a clear commitment to teaching excellence and innovation at a liberal arts institution.

Applications are sought from those who have demonstrated success working with diverse populations and a dedication to advancing Hollins University's dedication to diversity, equity, justice, and inclusive excellence. Candidates must also indicate that they value mentoring students.

About Hollins

Known for its creative and highly engaged student body, Hollins University prides itself on its nationally recognized and award-winning undergraduate and graduate academic programs, its deeply committed alumnae/i network, its extraordinarily beautiful campus surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its unique ability to ensure that each of its students has the opportunity to design a transformational college experience.

Application Process

Screening of candidates will begin February 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled.

To apply, please submit the following materials:
  • A cover letter;
  • A curriculum vitae; and
  • A separate statement of teaching philosophy.
Candidates advanced to the second stage of review will be invited to submit the following materials:
  • Sample course syllabi;
  • Three letters of recommendation (at least one of which must focus specifically on teaching experience and abilities); and
  • Unofficial copy of graduate school transcripts.
Applicants should submit materials to gps@hollins.edu. The selected candidate will be asked to submit official transcripts to the Office of the Provost, and once they accept a contingent employment offer, a criminal history background check will be conducted. For questions about the position, please contact search chair Dr. Ed Lynch (elynch@hollins.edu).

Hollins is an equal opportunity employer and is strongly committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity at every level of the university. Persons of all genders; persons with disabilities; persons of all racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds; and first-generation college graduates are encouraged to apply.

For more information about Hollins, please visit our website (www.hollins.edu).