The Department of Political Science at Clemson University is conducting a search for an assistant professor with a research agenda applying quantitative research methods to topics in comparative politics or international relations. This is a nine-month, tenure-track position with an August 2027 start date.
The Department of Political Science is part of the College of Behavioral, Social, and Health Sciences at Clemson University. It includes 25 full-time faculty members supported by two full-time staff members and offers B.A. and B.S. degrees in political science, a master’s degree in public administration, and a Ph.D. in policy studies. Clemson is a public, land-grant institution located in western South Carolina in the Greenville metropolitan area. Its strategic plan—Clemson Elevate—articulates three dynamic goals: delivering the #1 student experience in the nation, doubling research productivity by 2035, and transforming lives statewide and beyond. These overlapping priorities are intended to continue Clemson’s development as a leading public research university, sustain its Carnegie R1 status, and position itself for Association of American Universities (AAU) membership.
This role is open with respect to regional or substantive focus. Applications from individuals undertaking interdisciplinary or policy-focused research, including comparative public policy, are welcome. The successful candidate will be expected to pursue an active research program resulting in a strong record of peer-reviewed publications. Candidates with a history of external research funding or definite plans to apply for grants are desirable.
The selected candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in their area of specialization and in quantitative research methods, including methods classes offered in the department’s doctoral program in policy studies. The position’s normal teaching load is two courses per semester.
A selected candidate with substantive research interests related to online mis/disinformation or deception, including national security-related topics, or methodological expertise in the analysis of text-as-data may also be eligible for an affiliation with and support from the Clemson University Media Forensics Hub—an interdisciplinary project devoted to building society’s capacity to understand the context, origins, and impact of modern media, particularly questions of authenticity and deception.
A Ph.D. in political science or a related field, completed by August 15, 2027, is required.
To apply, candidates should submit a (1) brief cover letter, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) research statement, (4) sample article or working paper, (5) teaching statement with evidence of teaching effectiveness (if available), and (6) contact information for three references who can provide confidential letters of recommendation.
Materials should be submitted online at: https://apply.interfolio.com/194509
The review of applications will begin on Monday, October 19, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.
Questions regarding this position may be sent to Dr. Jeff Peake (jpeake@clemson.edu), Search Committee Chair, or to Dr. Joseph Ura (jura@clemson.edu), Department Chair.
Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.
