"Assistant Professor, Political Violence & Terrorism"

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 Justice, Law & Criminology in the School of Public Affairs at American University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position beginning in Academic Year 2026-2027. The position will be at the rank of Assistant Professor. For this position, the department is seeking a scholar with substantive expertise in political violence and terrorism. The search is open regarding specialty, but the Department is especially interested in a scholar whose research and teaching interests include terrorism, political violence, radicalization, extremism, or cybersecurity.

Applicants should hold a PhD in political science, criminology, sociology, or other closely related discipline. Candidates who possess a law degree only (J.D. or LL.M.) will not be considered for this position. Candidates should be effective teachers and must be strongly committed to excellence in scholarly research. Most of all, the department seeks scholars who will further its goals of producing high impact research and providing innovative undergraduate and graduate teaching. Competitive candidates will possess a strong background in social science methodologies and a productive research portfolio, including publications in high-quality peer reviewed outlets. The Department is home to a range of disciplines, approaches, and methods. We are particularly interested in individuals whose research is interdisciplinary. In addition to scholarship and teaching, all faculty are expected to hold office hours and participate in School and University activities and service.

Teaching responsibilities will include core and elective courses. Possible courses include: Causes of Terrorism, Radicalization, and various research methods classes. In addition to producing high quality scholarship and effective teaching, responsibilities will include mentoring graduate students and service to the department, school, and university. The search committee is especially interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service will contribute to the excellence of the academic community.

Salary and benefits are competitive, with an expected salary range of $90,000 to $110,000. Review of applications will begin on September 22, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled, subject to on-going budgetary approvals. The position begins August 1, 2026. Applicants should have a PhD or an anticipated PhD completion date by August 2026.

Please submit applications via Workday. Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, copies of up to three recently published articles and/or working papers, and three letters of recommendation. Please contact Tatiana Williams, Senior Administrative Assistant, at twilliams@american.edu if you have any questions.

Established in 1934, the School of Public Affairs offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the departments of Government; Justice, Law, & Criminology; and Public Administration & Policy. The School’s programs are consistently ranked among the best in the field of public affairs by U.S. News & World Report. Learn more about the School of Public Affairs at www.american.edu/spa.

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.