"Assistant Professor, Department of Government"

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University.

Department: School of Public Affairs

Time Type: Full time

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Description: The Department of Government in the School of Public Affairs at American University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position beginning in Academic Year 2026-27. The position will be at the rank of Assistant Professor. The Department is seeking an American Politics scholar.

Applicants should hold a PhD in political science or government. Candidates must be strongly committed to excellence in scholarly research and teaching. The search is open regarding areas of substantive specialty, but the Department is especially interested in scholars whose research and teaching interests include American political institutions (e.g., Congress), African American politics, or women and politics. Most of all, the department seeks scholars who will further its goals of producing high impact research and providing innovative undergraduate and graduate teaching. Applications are particularly welcome from scholars who can contribute to high visibility centers and research initiatives at American University, such as the Women and Politics Institute, Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies, Center for Data Science, and Center for Environmental Policy. In addition to scholarship and teaching, all faculty are expected to hold office hours and participate in School and University activities and service.

Review of applications will begin on September 3, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled, subject to on-going budgetary approvals. The position begins on August 1, 2026. Applicants should have a PhD or an anticipated PhD completion date by August 2026.

Salary and benefits are competitive, with an expected salary range of $90,000 to $110,000. Please submit applications via Workday. Include a letter of application, curriculum vitae, three confidential letters of recommendation, research and teaching narratives, and a writing sample. Please contact Joanne Wiesman, Staff Assistant to the Chair, 202-885-6459 or jwiesman@american.edu if you have any questions.

Benefits AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check. Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university. Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. American University is an E-Verify employer.