Unlock Inclusive Futures: Thrilling Careers in Disability Research Await!
Disability Research faculty jobs represent a dynamic intersection of social science, policy, and advocacy, driving societal change through studies on inclusion, accessibility, and rights. This field, rooted in the social model of disability pioneered in the 1980s, has surged in relevance since the ADA's 1990 enactment and the UNCRPD in 2006. AcademicJobs.com lists top Disability Research professor positions, from tenure-track roles at R1 institutions to research-focused posts. Students eyeing Disability Research careers should pursue undergrad majors in sociology or psychology, advancing to specialized PhDs—programs like Syracuse University's groundbreaking initiative stand out. Faculty seekers, note rising demand: BLS data shows 12% growth in social science research jobs through 2032, fueled by neurodiversity and remote accessibility post-COVID. Earnings competitive, with assistant professors averaging $85,000. Check Rate My Professor for Disability Research faculty insights before applying. Parents and job seekers, discover prestige at centers like UIC's Institute on Disability. Ready to advance equity? Browse higher ed jobs for Disability Research faculty opportunities today.
Education Paths for Aspiring Disability Researchers
Students passionate about Disability Research start with bachelor's degrees in social sciences, focusing on courses like "Sociology of Disability" or "Disability Policy." Graduate programs, such as those at Ohio State (first Disability Studies PhD, 2004), emphasize interdisciplinary work. Fringe quirk: Indigenous disability research in Canada integrates traditional knowledge, unique to locales like UBC. Career paths span academia, government (e.g., HHS policy roles), and NGOs. Use scholarships for funding; parents, guide your scholars toward higher ed career advice. Rate standout professors via Rate My Professor in Disability Research.
Faculty Jobs and Salaries in Disability Research
Disability Research professor jobs thrive at universities prioritizing DEI, with tenure-track openings in social science departments. Trends show 20% more postings since 2020, per HigherEdJobs data. Expected earnings vary by role and location—California hubs pay premiums. Explore full details at professor salaries.
| Role | Average US Salary (2023) | High-Paying Locale Example |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $75,000 - $95,000 | $110,000+ in /us/california |
| Associate Professor | $95,000 - $120,000 | $135,000+ in /us/new-york |
| Full Professor | $130,000 - $180,000 | $200,000+ Ivy League |
Staff and adjuncts earn $50,000-$70,000; see adjunct professor jobs. Link up with higher ed jobs faculty listings. For UK, check jobs.ac.uk.
Search Professor Jobs NowTrends, Prestige, and Unique Quirks
Prestige peaks in journals like Disability & Society; top programs at CUNY and Liverpool Hope (first dedicated dept, 1999). Trends: Crip theory and mad studies challenge norms—fringe case, autistic-led research at Autistic Self Advocacy Network influences academia. Anecdote: 1977's 504 Sit-in spurred federal access, birthing policy research. Australia’s NDIS (2013) boosted jobs; see UniJobs. Job seekers, leverage research jobs. Review faculty on Rate My Professor for Disability Research prestige. Get career advice.
Top Disability Research Programs
Syracuse University
Pioneering center; strong on policy. New York jobs.
University of Illinois Chicago
Leading institute; urban inclusion focus.
Georgetown University
Policy tracks; DC networking. DC opportunities.
Associations for Disability Research
Society for Disability Studies
An international, interdisciplinary association that promotes the exploration of disability through research, artistic production, teaching, and activism.
International Association for the Scientific Study of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
A global organization dedicated to advancing research and knowledge on intellectual and developmental disabilities through international collaboration and scientific inquiry.
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
The oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization of professionals and others concerned with intellectual and developmental disabilities, focusing on research, policy, and practice.
Canadian Disability Studies Association
A national organization that fosters critical disability studies scholarship, education, and activism in Canada.
Nordic Network on Disability Research
A multidisciplinary network that promotes disability research and collaboration among scholars in the Nordic countries.
Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability
An organization that supports research, policy, and practice related to intellectual disability in Australia and New Zealand.





