Job Description

Assistant Professor of Political Science

Illinois Wesleyan University invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Political Science (Tenure Track). We seek candidates with a specialization in comparative or international politics, with a preference for candidates who have area expertise in European or Asian politics, analytical expertise in political institutions (international or domestic), and/or the ability to teach U.S. foreign policy. The start date for this position is August 15, 2027.

At Illinois Wesleyan, Tenure Track faculty engage students through six teaching assignments each year, pursue productive scholarly or artistic work, serve as academic advisors, and engage in departmental and campus-wide service. After receiving feedback on formative reviews in the second, third, and fourth years of employment, a case for tenure and promotion is submitted in the fall of the sixth year.

Tenure track faculty are eligible for sabbatical following six complete academic years of full-time service and every seven years thereafter. Additional professional development opportunities include the possibility of start-up funds, the potential for junior faculty leave, and support for the development of external grants. The Thorpe Center for Curricular and Faculty Development supports faculty in their teaching and scholarly or artistic work including peer-to-peer mentoring, workshops, internal grants, and assistance with instructional design and technology.

Founded in 1850, Illinois Wesleyan University is a nationally ranked, small, private undergraduate liberal arts university with highly selective admission criteria and a tradition of teaching excellence emphasizing the integration of the liberal arts and professional education. We are located in Bloomington, IL, a metro area of 190,000 people, which is about a two or three hour drive from Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. We are strongly committed to fostering an environment that values varied perspectives and backgrounds. Responsibilities of Tenure-Track Faculty:

• 6-course teaching load per year
• Academic advising in the discipline
• Scholarly (or artistic) achievement
• Departmental and University service

The successful candidate should hold a Ph.D degree in Political Science (or related field), or be in the final stages of completing one. A strong commitment to excellence in undergraduate education is required. Preference will be given to candidates with prior teaching experience at the university level.

Application Information: Please submit the following:

1. a cover letter addressing qualifications
2. a curriculum vitae
3. a statement of your teaching philosophy that also (a) addresses how your philosophy and practice have contributed to fostering an environment that values varied perspectives and backgrounds, and (b) notes how you would collaborate to embrace a wide range of experiences and viewpoints.
4. the names and contact information for three professional references
5. unofficial copies of all academic transcripts

For full consideration, applications should be received by Friday, October 23, 2026.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Nine-month appointment
• Salary Range: $62-65, and based on experience
• The final candidate will pass a pre-employment background investigation.
• An overview of IWU benefits can be found here.
• Illinois Wesleyan University may offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term.

Illinois Wesleyan University is committed to recruiting, supporting, and fostering a community that values a wide range of perspectives and backgrounds among our outstanding faculty, staff, and students. We seek candidates who have a demonstrated commitment to contributing to and enhancing our community in these areas. Illinois Wesleyan University is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to promoting excellence through a variety of viewpoints.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs