The University of Chicago Division of the Social Sciences invites applications for appointment as Instructional Professor (IP) at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor, with a specialization in Psychology, in the Master of Arts Program in the Social Sciences ( https://mapss.uchicago.edu). We invite applications from candidates across the full range of fields within the discipline. We are particularly interested in candidates with the training and experience to teach and advise students in experimental and/or quantitative methods.
This is a full-time, career track teaching and advising position that involves designing graduate seminars, mentoring students on research projects, and helping a diverse range of students navigate graduate school. The initial three-year appointment will begin in Academic Year 2026-27 and is renewable with opportunity for promotion. Academic rank and compensation (including a generous package of fringe benefits) are dependent upon qualifications.
MAPSS is a one-year program providing students with a foundation in graduate-level interdisciplinary social science research. Students concentrate in psychology, anthropology, history, political science, sociology, or in interdisciplinary research, and conduct research projects under the supervision of UChicago faculty or MAPSS IPs. MAPSS recruits talented students from a wide array of backgrounds, experiences, and trajectories. Some go on to doctoral study after MAPSS, but most use the degree to advance their careers with the help of an in-house Career Services team.
IP at UChicago teach up to 6 courses per year. In MAPSS, IP have an annual teaching load of 4 courses, in addition to substantial mentoring and service responsibilities. Their courses include one section of the MAPSS core social theory course “Perspectives in Social Science Analysis,” and other courses oriented toward MA and/or undergraduate students, according to program need. This often includes a graduate seminar introducing an important social science research methodology.
MAPSS IP perform substantive roles as preceptors, a position that involves advising students on quarterly course selection and independent research projects, supervising capstone projects, serving as second readers on student theses, and providing broad academic and professional guidance to a cohort of master’s students in office hours. They also closely advise students and alumni who are applying to PhD programs.
MAPSS IP fulfill a range of service requirements. They participate in admissions and recruiting as well as other co-curricular academic programming. They hire and manage teaching assistants, participate in staff meetings, and contribute to program operations, including participating in the student academic conference or serving on decision-making committees (e.g. student prizes).
The position includes support for professional development, including funds to attend conferences and workshops, as well as mentoring from senior members of the MAPSS instructional team. The position also offers opportunities to participate in the intellectual life of the University.
Applicants must have a PhD in Psychology or in a related discipline prior to the start date. Prior teaching in the social sciences is required. Experience mentoring students on original research projects is preferred.
Applicants must apply online at the University of Chicago’s Interfolio academic job board at https://apply.interfolio.com/177125.
The following required application materials must be submitted through Interfolio:
1) a cover letter, outlining the applicant’s prior training and research experience, their prior teaching and/or mentoring experience, and their suggested course offerings; 2) a curriculum vitae; 3) a doctoral transcript (unofficial is acceptable); 4) an article-length writing sample; 5) at least one course syllabus designed by the candidate; 6) course evaluations or other evidence of past experienceteaching or mentoring; 7) a teaching statement; and 8) three letters of recommendation.
Review of applications will begin on February 9, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled or the search is closed.
This position is benefits-eligible. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook
This position will be part of the Service Employees International Union.
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email equalopportunity@uchicago.edu with their request.
