"Post Doctoral Scholar Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society"

The Ohio State University’s motto, Disciplina in Civitatem, or education for citizenship, is not merely a slogan; it is an exhortation to remain focused on the responsibility to develop an informed, engaged, and civic-minded citizenry. It is essential to fulfilling Ohio State’s land-grant mission.

In 2023, the State of Ohio established and funded the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society at Ohio State (the “Chase Center” or Center). The Chase Center is a multidisciplinary university center that conducts teaching, research, and public programming concerning the core texts and great debates of Western civilization; the principles, ideals, and institutions of the American and Ohio political order; and the foundations of responsible leadership and informed citizenship. It is an independent academic unit within the University. The Center is a leader of the growing cadre of similar schools of civic thought in Ohio and throughout the country.

During its first year of operation, the Chase Center laid a strong foundation for long-term success... [abbreviated for brevity, but includes mission details].

Position Overview

The Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society seeks to fill up to four post doctoral positions to start in the 2026–2027 academic year. Successful candidates will demonstrate the potential to be extraordinary scholars with research and teaching in disciplines relevant to civic thought and leadership, including (but not limited to) economics, English, history, law, philosophy, political theory/science, theology/religious studies, and sociology. Post doctoral scholars will publish research, teach, and make contributions to their academic discipline in a manner that serves the Center’s mission, and will be actively engaged in the Center’s and Ohio State’s intellectual life.

The Center’s post doctoral scholars will be public-spirited and committed to building an academic community in which civic life and the life of the mind flourish... Salary and benefits are competitive. This is a two-year position without the possibility of renewal. The Chase Center will not be able to sponsor work visas other than for those who already possess authorization to work in the United States.

Performance Objectives

• Contribute and demonstrate a commitment to the Chase Center’s statutory mission through research, teaching, and service.
• Build expertise and a strong scholarly reputation in a discipline relevant to civic thought and leadership.
• Present high-quality research at Chase Center workshops and academic conferences.
• Publish impactful scholarship in prestigious academic outlets...
• Develop and effectively teach courses that advance the Center’s mission.
• Participate actively in Chase Center events and the student program.
• Engage in service to the Chase Center, the University, and the broader community.
• Demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrate poise, professionalism, and good judgment.

Education and Experience Requirements

Required

• Applicants must have completed or be on track to complete before starting the position, a Ph.D., J.D., or other terminal degree in a field related to the Center’s mission. Applicants must have completed their Ph.D. or other terminal degree within three years of starting this post doctoral position.
• Demonstrated potential for excellence in scholarly research, teaching, and service.
• Commitment to the Chase Center’s statutory mission of civic thought and leadership.

Desired

• Relevant prior professional experience with respect to research, teaching, and service is valued but not required...

Application materials must include the following:

• Cover letter describing how the candidate meets the qualifications... addressed to: Dr. Jonathan Spiegler, Assistant Director...
• Curriculum vita (CV)
• Statement of research
• Writing sample (recent article, book chapter, working paper, or dissertation chapter)
• The names and contact information of at least three individuals who can provide a letter of reference...

We will begin reviewing applications and scheduling interviews starting on January 30, 2026, and will continue accepting applications on a rolling basis until all positions have been filled. Please email Dr. Spiegler, at spiegler.10@osu.edu, if you have questions about the application process.