Visiting Assistant Professor

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

The Department of Public Policy Leadership (PPL) at the University of Mississippi invites applications for a one-year visiting assistant professor position to begin in August 2025. As an interdisciplinary department, PPL has faculty from a variety of backgrounds and welcomes candidates from a range of disciplines in the social sciences to apply.  A Ph.D. in Geography, International Studies, Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, Sociology, or other related fields is required at the time of employment, as is a record of excellence in teaching and research. The successful candidate will have a good background in social science research methods along with the ability to contribute to PPL’s international policy course offerings. The position has a 3/3 teaching load. Teaching responsibilities include the department’s required course in Public Policy Research Methods (PPL 210) and courses in international policy with a focus on global issues such as economic development, the environment, migration, public health, technology, and urbanization. The ability to teach a variety of courses, including any of the Department’s other required courses, will be a plus. 

The Department provides a challenging undergraduate major that prepares high-performing students for positions of leadership in an increasingly complex world.  The interdisciplinary curriculum for the major incorporates economics, geography, philosophy, political science, public administration, and public policy.  The program emphasizes the global nature of responsible decision-making; the ethical imperatives of leadership; critical thinking and communication skills; and the conceptual and methodological skills necessary for careful policy analysis. Visit our website at http://leadership.olemiss.edu.

Position Details

Appointment: 9 month

Assignment Type:Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

A Ph.D. in Geography, International Studies, Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, Sociology, or other related fields is required at the time of employment, as is a record of excellence in teaching and research.

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Application Procedures

Apply online: https://careers.olemiss.edu. Applications should include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and the contact information of three references.  A teaching portfolio (including syllabi and evaluations, if available) will be welcome.

The review of applications will begin on January 13, 2025 and continue until the position is filled.  The University of Mississippi is classified by Carnegie Foundation as a R1 research university and has been rated a “best college to work for” by the Chronicle of Higher Education. It is an EEO/AA/TitleIX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA employer.

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.