"Julian Steward Chair of Social Sciences"

Deep Springs College is hiring the Julian Steward Chair of Social Sciences to begin in August of 2026. This position is open to educators in any social science discipline including sociology, history, political science, anthropology, archaeology, economics, law, geography, and psychology. We are particularly interested in social scientists with very broad, interdisciplinary interests and who are eager to work closely with our permanent Humanities and Natural Science Chairs. The ability to teach both the intellectual foundations of social science and social science methodology is highly desirable. Above all, the ideal candidate will be a committed and passionate teacher with an enthusiasm for Deep Springs College’s unique educational program.

Founded in 1917, Deep Springs College is a private, nonsectarian, fully accredited 2-year college program for academically gifted young people, located on a small cattle-and-alfalfa ranch in a beautiful, remote area of the White Mountains on the California-Nevada border. The program enrolls 26-30 students who divide their time between rigorous academics, labor, and self-governance (“the three pillars”) with the aim of cultivating a life of leadership and service. As long-standing members of the College community, Faculty Chairs play an essential role in fostering the intellectual culture of the school.

The Julian Steward Chair will be expected to cultivate the social sciences as a vibrant area of inquiry on campus while building rapport with students and colleagues beyond the classroom—by attending communal meals, collaborating with students on projects of shared interest, and engaging in recreational activities such as hikes and artistic performances. The right person for this role will be excited to serve and live in a small, close-knit community located in an isolated and beautiful desert environment. Deep Springs is a unique place that changes the lives of all who work and study here by revealing capacities of cooperation, resilience, and character unique to each of us. The College sustains a profound hold on the imaginations of its staff, faculty, and students during their time here and long after they leave.

Faculty Chairs typically teach two self-designed courses each semester (four courses per academic year) with fewer than ten students. Chairs are expected to teach courses within their area of expertise, as well as more general courses to support the breadth of the social sciences at Deep Springs (i.e. courses on both canonical theoretical texts and on research methodology). In addition, faculty have the option to mentor students through independent studies each year. Chairs are encouraged to solicit student participation in their work, or work with students to design projects of mutual interest. Chairs are also expected to serve on one of the college’s student-led committees, which manage student admissions and re-invitation, as well as communications, outreach, and curriculum development.

Faculty Chair appointments are full-time with extensive benefits such as free housing, utilities, and meals. Additional benefits include health, vision, and dental insurance as well as a monthly retirement contribution equal to 14% of salary. Traditionally Faculty Chairs do not teach during our spring and summer short terms, resulting in a four-month annual teaching release (May-August). The starting salary for Faculty Chairs is $76,000 with additional salary consideration for prior years of service in an existing faculty position. Initial appointments are for three years, renewable for a second three-year term. Deep Springs College does not offer tenure but our Faculty Chairs often stay for 4-6 years, transitioning to tenure-track positions at top public and private institutions of higher learning. Deep Springs is committed to supporting Chairs in their own professional development, research, and scholarship so that they may pursue life-long success in academia after they leave the College.

Deep Springs College is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, national origin, religion, age, or disability. More information about our commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion can be found on our website.

Application Procedures for the Julian Steward Chair of Social Sciences:

We will begin reviewing applications on November 24, 2025 and will continue to accept and consider new applications after this date until the position is filled. To apply, please email the following materials to socialsciences@deepsprings.edu:

• Cover Letter that addresses your connection to the Deep Springs mission
• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Teaching Philosophy and Experience
• Statement of Research or Professional Works

If you are offered an interview, we will also request three letters of recommendation.

Application Deadline: November 24, 2025

Email Address for Applications: socialsciences@deepsprings.edu

Additional inquiries or questions about the positions or application process can be sent to dean@deepsprings.edu and curcom@deepsprings.edu.