Assistant Professor of Political Science - Law & Society (27/28)

Cal Poly • San Luis, CA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Political Science in the College of Liberal Arts at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), San Luis Obispo, California, invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor with a specialization in law and society or law and politics, to begin approximately August 12, 2027. Ph.D. in Political Science or a related field is at the time of appointment. Evidence of strong teaching skills and an active research program is required. The successful candidate should be able to teach core undergraduate courses in law, such as Constitutional Law, Judicial Process, Jurisprudence, and others. Preference is given to candidates with teaching and research interest in social justice issues. The initial appointment is for two years, subject to renewal. Although Cal Poly is primarily a teaching university, our faculty are expected to balance teaching with an active program of research/professional development (including publication), student supervision and advising, and participation in service activities at the department and college/university level. The typical teaching load is 12 units per semester, with a reduction in course load in each of the first two years to help new faculty establish an active program of research and professional development. Subject to further planning and approval, Cal Poly anticipates a possible transition to semester-based year-round operations (YRO). Under YRO, full-time academic year faculty may be assigned to teach in two consecutive semesters (Fall/Spring, Spring/Summer, or Summer/Fall) out of the three semesters offered annually. The two-semester sequence will constitute the regular academic year appointment. Faculty may also be eligible to teach in the third semester for additional compensation, subject to departmental needs and University policy.

Requirements

• An earned doctorate (Ph.D.) in Political Science or a related field from an accredited institution or international equivalent.
• Candidates nearing completion of the doctorate (ABD) may be considered but must provide proof that the doctorate will be awarded prior to the start of the appointment.
• Evidence of strong teaching skills and an active research program is required.
• Demonstrated university teaching experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency in written and oral use of the English language is required.

Nice To Haves

• Teaching and research interest in social justice issues.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive and inclusive environment.
• Demonstrated experience and commitment to student-centered learning and teaching.
• Demonstrated ability to collaboratively work in multidisciplinary settings.
• Relevant work experience.
• Professional capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Teach core undergraduate courses in law, such as Constitutional Law, Judicial Process, Jurisprudence, and others.
• Balance teaching with an active program of research/professional development (including publication).
• Student supervision and advising.
• Participation in service activities at the department and college/university level.

Benefits

• Reduction in course load in each of the first two years to help new faculty establish an active program of research and professional development.
• Eligibility to teach in the third semester for additional compensation, subject to departmental needs and University policy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree