Title: Assistant Professor - Department of Political Science

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: Social & Behavioral Sciences

Department: Political Science

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full-time

Work Arrangement: Hybrid

Job Summary

The Department of Political Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Political Science in Media, Technology, and Politics, expected to start on September 1, 2027.

Essential Functions

Applicants should have a research focus on social media, digital platforms, and/or artificial intelligence in the context of how these technologies are rapidly reshaping campaigns, political discourse, and democratic institutions in the United States. Applicants should have a documented record or a clear promise of exceptional research productivity. Teaching responsibilities will include undergraduate and graduate courses in the candidate’s areas of expertise in Political Science and in the Data Analytics and Computational Social Science Program (DACSS). The new hire is expected to engage with the University’s interdisciplinary programs through the Computational Social Science Institute and the Community, Democracy, and Dialogue Initiative and is expected to contribute to the UMass Poll. We seek candidates with a demonstrated ability to engage students from diverse backgrounds and to contribute to a learning environment that supports all students. Current or previous external funding, or experience seeking external grants, is a plus.

Under exceptional circumstances, highly qualified candidates at other ranks may receive consideration.

Minimum Qualifications

A Ph.D. in Political Science or a related discipline by the start date is required.
A record of research and teaching in Media and Politics, Technology and Politics, Artificial Intelligence and Politics, and/or Political Methodology.
A demonstrated ability to teach a course or courses in the Data Analytics and Computational Social Science (DACSS) Program.

Additional Details

Applicants are encouraged to describe in their cover letter, research statement, and teaching statement how their work aligns with the goals and values outlined in the university’s strategic plan, including advancing equity and inclusive excellence.

This position is subject to final budgetary and administrative approval.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

This position is expected to start on 9/1/27.

Salary Information

The University of Massachusetts Amherst expects to pay within an approximate range between $79,350 and 125,811 for this position. Please note:

The low-end of the pay range in all faculty searches at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is the minimum salary for the rank included in the collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Massachusetts Society of Professors, UMass Amherst/MTA/NEA.

The high-end of the pay range reflects an increase above the median of salaries at this rank within the department for faculty who may have multiple years of faculty experience. The specific pay for this position will be determined by the University based on consideration of all relevant factors, including faculty rank and required relevant certifications, when and if it decides to extend an offer of employment.

Special Instructions for Applicants

Applicants must apply through the UMass online application system unless they are unable do so. Applicants should submit:

• Their curriculum vitae
• A brief research statement that discusses their current research agenda and how it contributes to our understanding of media, technology, and politics
• A brief teaching and mentoring statement that discusses how their work aligns with the university’s values and goals as outlined in the Strategic Plan – For the Common Good.
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness
• Up to three samples of current scholarship
• Names and contact information for three references. This information must be submitted through and added to the application in the PageUp online system.

Review of applications will begin on September 15, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Preference will be given to applications received on or before September 15, 2026. Questions can be addressed to jrhodes@polsci.umass.edu.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.