Assistant Professor-Tenure System

Position Summary

Michigan State University actively promotes a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives, and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry. The Department of Political Science at Michigan State University is seeking to hire a 9-month academic year, tenure-system professor at the rank of Assistant Professor in the field of US politics.

We welcome applications from scholars working on topics related to US politics broadly defined. This could include research on Congress and state legislatures, the presidency and executive politics, judicial politics, political parties, elections, public opinion, political participation, representation, bureaucratic politics, interbranch relations, or the interaction between political institutions and political behavior.

Candidates with a history of receiving external research funding, or those with mature plans to apply for funding, will be highly favored. The candidate would be expected to teach courses and mentor students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Please note that this is a union position represented by the Union of Tenure System Faculty (UTSF). The university is working with the union to establish a collective bargaining agreement.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -US Politics or similar.

Minimum Requirements

Completed PhD by the date of hire. Research and teaching interests that contribute to the study of US politics.

Desired Qualifications

Potential for high impact peer-reviewed publications. Potential for obtaining external funding. Ability to contribute to department’s teaching needs in US politics and potential for high-quality instruction and mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Required Application Materials

Electronic submission is required, and materials should be uploaded at http://careers.msu.edu. Applicants must submit a CV, cover letter, research statement, teaching statement, two samples of written work, and the names and contact information for three references. Letters of recommendation will be collected after receipt of completed application. 

The search committee members are Ian Ostrander (Chair), Jenny Wolak, and Siv Cheruvu. Please contact any committee member with questions about this position.

Review of Applications Begins On

09/15/2026

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

https://polisci.msu.edu/

Department Statement

MSU is located in East Lansing, MI, with easy access to the state capital, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, Lake Superior (albeit more time consuming), excellent school districts, affordable housing, Whole Foods, Horrocks, Trader Joe's, and two large metropolitan areas (Grand Rapids, Detroit). The University is proactive in exploring opportunities for employment for dual career couples, both inside and outside the University. Information about MSU's dual career support can be found at https://worklife.msu.edu/your-career/dual-career/.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.