The Politics Department at Occidental College invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of assistant professor in political theory to begin Fall 2016. We seek a candidate whose specializations cover any or all of the following areas: contemporary democratic theory, multiculturalism, and/or comparative political thought. In addition to courses in their specialization, the ideal candidate would offer courses covering the canonical texts in ancient, modern, and contemporary political theory. We are especially keen that courses on modern and contemporary theory cover a range of intellectual traditions, including contributions from American Political Thought. All requirements for the Ph.D. must be completed by July 1, 2016.
The teaching load at Occidental College is five courses per year (3-2 or 2-3). In addition, all members of the faculty are expected to contribute regularly to Occidental College’s first year general education program in cultural studies. Applicants should be able to demonstrate excellence in teaching and a strong commitment to, and record of, scholarly publication.
Occidental College is a nationally-ranked small liberal arts college recognized for its diverse student body, its commitment to academic excellence and equity, and its outstanding undergraduate research programs. Named one of America’s most beautiful campuses, Occidental College is situated in the vibrant neighborhoods of Eagle Rock and Highland Park in the city of Los Angeles, allowing convenient access to major cultural and natural attractions in the nation’s second largest city. As one of the few urban liberal arts colleges in the country, Occidental College affords students and faculty a unique pedagogical engagement with vast resources outside of the classroom. Occidental College has a strong commitment to community engagement, including robust opportunities for experiential learning, community-based research, and internships. The Politics Department has helped lead efforts on campus, along with the Center for Community Based Learning and the Office of Community Engagement, to link the college’s academic program with community involvement, including expanding community internships and community-oriented research projects for students.
Occidental College is an equal opportunity employer. Occidental College is committed to academic excellence in a diverse community and actively seek applications from candidates who will further this mission; underrepresented minorities are particularly encouraged to apply.
Please submit: (1) a cover letter detailing your interest in teaching in a liberal arts environment; (2) a current curriculum vitae; (3) a statement of teaching philosophy including how you will support and enhance Occidental College’s goal of building a strong educational environment in classrooms that have an ethnically, socio-economically, and culturally diverse student body; (4) evidence of teaching effectiveness (teaching evaluations or other materials); (5) a statement of your research, including how students may participate in or benefit from your research; (6) three letters of recommendation, at least one that can attest to your teaching performance or abilities; and (7) two writing samples.
The Politics Department will conduct preliminary interviews with qualified candidates at the APSA meeting. To request an interview, submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae by August 21, 2015 to: Ms. Romy Corona, Politics Department Assistant, rcorona@oxy.edu.
Please submit one single PDF in the order listed. Full dossiers should be sent to: theorysearch@oxy.edu. Letters of recommendation may be sent directly by references to Ms. Romy Corona, Politics Department Assistant, rcorona@oxy.edu. All materials are due by September 15, 2015.
Specific inquiries about the position can be directed to the search chair Prof. Thalia González at thaliagonzalez@oxy.edu.
