Visiting Assistant Professor of Political Science

Position description

The Department of Political Science at PLU invites applications for a one year visiting assistant professor of American politics. The Department of Political Science (https://www.plu.edu/academic-programs/program/political-science/) offers Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and minors in political science and pre-law. Faculty in the department are collaborative and routinely use active learning throughout the curriculum. Diversity is a core value and foundational concept in the Department of Political Science at PLU, and we are committed to building and supporting an inclusive and diverse faculty, staff, and student community.

We seek a candidate with broad training in American politics, with areas of specializations open. The successful candidate will be an excellent and committed teacher responsible for teaching both lower- and upper- division courses in American Government that complement the department’s course offerings. Candidates must have a strong interest in working with undergraduate students from a diverse range of backgrounds.

Specific courses will be assigned based on expertise, course availability, and departmental need. There is a six-course teaching responsibility for the academic year. In addition, all department faculty are expected to contribute to the First- Year Experience Program as needed. Teaching during our January term is also expected.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Teach a full six course (24 credit) load annually.
• Contribute to academic advising.
• Provide service to the department as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of effective and inclusive teaching techniques and strategies, such as providing students with up-to-date, relevant, and level-appropriate content and using interactive, student-focused pedagogical approaches.
• Strong disciplinary knowledge base in American Government.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Willingness to collaborate and engage with other department and university faculty.
• Commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching, liberal arts education, and the ability to work with a diverse student body.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Political Science. ABD will be considered, but the degree must be completed by September 1, 2025.
• Applicant must be legally eligible to work in the United States on hire date AND legally authorized to work in the United States for Pacific Lutheran University without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Teaching experience and/or pedagogical training at the undergraduate level.

Application instructions

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