placing graduates into PhD programs.
Oberlin is situated on the outskirts of Cleveland, combining a cozy small-town atmosphere with the cultural amenities of a major city. The Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Orchestra, the Cinematheque, Karamu House, several educational institutions, and scores of restaurants, bars, music venues, and theaters add to the cultural and educational opportunities of the region.
The Politics Department currently consists of ten full-time continuing faculty who focus their research and teaching in the areas of American politics, comparative politics, international politics, and political theory. The department graduates about 50 majors each year. More information about the department is available at https://www.oberlin.edu/arts-and-sciences/departments/politics.
The incumbent will teach the standard teaching load (4.5 courses per year) in the general area of contemporary political theory, with an emphasis on the study of democracy and/or democratic theory. The position is open regarding method and approach.
The incumbent will also be expected to engage in sustained scholarly research and/or other creative work appropriate to the position and participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising, mentoring undergraduate research and service on committees. The Department and College actively support new faculty with mentoring and professional development opportunities, including a paid pre-tenure leave for those on the standard six-year track, startup support, and internal grants for conference travel and research.
Among the qualifications required for appointment is the PhD degree (in hand or expected by first semester of academic year 2027-28). Candidates must demonstrate commitment to and potential excellence in undergraduate teaching. Oberlin is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the distinctiveness and excellence of our academic community through their research, teaching, and service. The incumbent will bring understanding of or experience working with underrepresented and diverse academic populations. Oberlin recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran’s status, and/or other protected status as required by law.
Review of applications will begin on October 15, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Completed applications received by the October 15, 2026 deadline will be guaranteed full consideration.
