Job ID
FU9735 -6130-1686
Position Classification
FT Faculty UDMPU (9 month)
Position Summary
The Department of Political Science at the University of Detroit Mercy invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Political Science, with specialization in Legal Studies or Judicial Politics, to begin August 2024.
The Department of Political Science and its Pre-Law program are vibrant with engaged faculty committed to offering innovative courses and programming for our growing student population that is fervent and eager to learn. The Department of Political Science is deeply committed to the University’s distinctive mission of educational excellence, to a diverse student population within a vibrant urban context, and to community engagement. The Department of Political Science is dedicated to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the University community and curriculum.
The department seeks candidates to teach courses in Legal Studies and Judicial Studies broadly construed. Teaching assignments may include the following areas: Supreme Court, American Political Institutions, Contract Law, Property Law, Family Law, Torts, Law and Culture, Arbitration and Mediation/Alternative Dispute Settlement, and Law and Society. Candidates should be prepared to teach various Political Science courses in addition to topics in their area of specialization. The teaching load is 18 credit hours (6 courses) per academic year for faculty with an active research agenda. The successful candidate is expected to eventually assume directorship of the Pre-Law Program. In addition, the candidate will be expected to participate in professional development activities related to teaching and student advising. The candidate will be expected to engage in research and scholarship related to Political Science, Legal or Judicial Studies, and to provide service to the department and its pre-law program, and to the College and University.
Minimum Qualifications
- A Ph.D. in Political Science. Advanced ABDs will be considered but must have their Ph.D. in Political Science completed within one year of hire.
- Demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching (teaching evaluations) and a commitment to experiential learning.
- Evidence of active engagement with research and scholarship demonstrated by presentations at conferences, publications, moot court participation, or membership in professional organizations.
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with a Ph.D. in Political Science who also have a JD are preferred and encouraged to apply. Candidates with experience in directing a pre-law program, or other demonstrated service or leadership are preferred. A track record of research achievement including a current research plan in Political Science, Legal Studies or Judicial Studies is preferred. We are especially interested in applicants dedicated to excellence in both teaching and research in a liberal arts setting. Strong candidates will have a record of experience or demonstrated commitment to teaching diverse students.
Physical Requirements
Job may require lifting light weight objects (1 to 10 pounds) with no repetitive bending or stooping. Occasionally lift average weight objects (1 to 10 pounds).
Work Environment
Regular exposure to favorable conditions such as those found in a normal office setting.
Salary/Pay Information
Commensurate with experience.
Anticipated Schedule
TBD
Special Instructions to Applicants
Candidates must apply by completing an application and uploading materials. Materials must include:
- A letter of application that states the applicant’s interest in the position, credentials relative to the required items listed in the “Qualifications” section and illustration of how their scholarship is related to Political Science, Legal Studies, and/or Judicial Studies.
- A curriculum vitae.
- Sample syllabi or detailed course proposals.
- A teaching statement.
- A DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) statement.
- A scholarly writing sample.
- Transcripts
Three (3) letters of recommendation should be available upon request. Review of applications will begin Monday, February 26, 2024, and will continue until an appointment is made.
Michigan’s largest, most comprehensive private University, University of Detroit Mercy is an independent Catholic institution of higher education sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy and Society of Jesus. Detroit Mercy seeks qualified candidates who will contribute to the University’s mission, diversity, and excellence of its academic community. University of Detroit Mercy is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer with a diverse student body and welcomes persons of all backgrounds.
Learn more about our university mission here.
Questions regarding this position should be directed to Genevieve E. Meyers, Ph.D., Chair of the Search Committee: meyersge@udmercy.edu