Lecturer, Department of Political Science, Stanford University

The Department of Political Science seeks to hire two lecturers who will develop and teach capstone seminars for seniors. The university describes capstones as “high-impact educational practices” that provide “opportunities for students to integrate and apply what they have learned during their major course of study.”

The department will offer two types of capstone seminars, beginning in fall 2024. In capstone project seminars, students will complete an original project, such as a research paper that builds on prior coursework, overseas studies, or an internship. In policy practicum seminars, students will work in teams to develop policy recommendations for presentation to an external client, such as a government agency or a nongovernmental organization.

We are looking for outstanding applicants to teach either or both types of capstone seminars. For capstone project seminars, instructors will advise students on appropriate projects; offer seminars in which students develop and carry out their projects; and host conferences in which students present their work. For policy practicum seminars, instructors will identify appropriate clients and projects; offer seminars in which students analyze problems and develop recommendations; and guide teams in presenting work to external clients. Instructors will also help track the progress of students in the Political Science capstone pipeline.

This appointment is for two years with a possibility of renewal. Successful candidates will have a PhD in political science (or a related field) in hand no later than July 31, 2024. The position will begin in August or September 2024.

To apply, please submit the following to Academic Jobs Online (AJO): (1) a cover letter that explains why you are applying for this position and addresses your qualifications, including demonstrated excellence in teaching and research; (2) a curriculum vitae; (3) a teaching statement that discusses your approach to teaching; (4) a writing sample that exemplifies research you have done in political science or a related field; (5) teaching evaluations; and (6) three confidential letters of recommendation—at least one commenting on your teaching—which your recommenders will upload directly to AJO.

The salary range for this position is $95,000 - $98,000 for 2024-25. 

For additional information about Stanford’s Department of Political Science, see https://politicalscience.stanford.edu. Please direct inquiries to our faculty affairs specialist, Natalie Badalov, at nbadalov@stanford.edu.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the application process will close on March 31, 2024.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University’s research, teaching, and clinical missions.