Assistant Professor, Political Violence & Terrorism

position description

The Department of Justice, Law & Criminology in the School of Public Affairs at American University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position beginning in Academic Year 2026-2027. The position will be at the rank of Assistant Professor. For this position, the department is seeking a scholar with substantive expertise in political violence and terrorism. The search is open regarding specialty, but the Department is especially interested in a scholar whose research and teaching interests include terrorism, political violence, radicalization, extremism, or cybersecurity. 

Applicants should hold a PhD in political science, criminology, sociology, or other closely related discipline. Candidates who possess a law degree only (J.D. or LL.M.) will not be considered for this position. Candidates should be effective teachers and must be strongly committed to excellence in scholarly research. Most of all, the department seeks scholars who will further its goals of producing high impact research and providing innovative undergraduate and graduate teaching. Competitive candidates will possess a strong background in social science methodologies and a productive research portfolio, including publications in high-quality peer reviewed outlets. The Department is home to a range of disciplines, approaches, and methods. We are particularly interested in individuals whose research is interdisciplinary. In addition to scholarship and teaching, all faculty are expected to hold office hours and participate in School and University activities and service.

Teaching responsibilities will include core and elective courses. Possible courses include: Causes of Terrorism, Radicalization, and various research methods classes. In addition to producing high quality scholarship and effective teaching, responsibilities will include mentoring graduate students and service to the department, school, and university. The search committee is especially interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service will contribute to the excellence of the academic community.

Salary and benefits are competitive, with an expected salary range of $90,000 to $110,000. Review of applications will begin on September 22, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled, subject to on-going budgetary approvals. The position begins August 1, 2026. Applicants should have a PhD or an anticipated PhD completion date by August 2026.

Application instructions

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