We seek a candidate broadly trained in American Politics with an active research agenda and a demonstrated commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching. The area of specialization within American Politics is open. The successful candidate will be expected to teach an introductory course in American politics and upper-division courses in political behavior and/or political institutions (other than the judiciary), as well as courses in the candidate’s areas of expertise. The ability to contribute to the department’s research methods sequence is highly desirable. Oakland University operates on the semester system, and the standard teaching load is five courses per academic year.
The Department of Political Science, housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, offers undergraduate degree programs in Political Science (B.A.), International Relations (B.A.), and Public Administration and Public Policy (B.S.), as well as a NASPAA-accredited Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) program. The Department also conducts applied research for public and nonprofit agencies through the Public Affairs Research Laboratory.
Candidates with their Ph.D. in hand are preferred, but candidates who are ABD will also be considered, provided that they can demonstrate they are near completion of the dissertation. Candidates should demonstrate the potential for a productive scholarly research program, excellence in undergraduate teaching, and a commitment to advising and mentoring undergraduate research.
Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, writing sample, unofficial graduate transcripts, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and contact information for at least three references through Oakland University’s online application system. Once all required application materials have been uploaded through the online system, references will be contacted through the online system to submit confidential letters of recommendation. Applicants may also submit teaching evaluations, a writing sample, and a research statement. Review of applications will begin on October 12, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Terri L. Towner, American Politics Search Chair, at towner@oakland.edu.