Public Policy Administration - Tenure-track

The University of Missouri-St. Louis invites applications for a 9-month, tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor level with expertise in Public Policy Administration beginning in August 2025. We seek a candidate to strengthen our MPPA program emphasis areas in local government management, nonprofit leadership, or policy research and analysis. The ability and willingness to teach a graduate or undergraduate course in quantitative methods is desirable, including in areas related to machine learning or geographic information systems. The person filling this position will have an appointment in the Political Science department and the NASPAA-accredited Public Policy Administration program within Political Science.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Teach graduate and undergraduate; mentor students from diverse backgrounds
• Execute an impactful research program
• Participate in the department, university, and community through service
• Contribute to a welcoming and inclusive department and campus environment

The department is also interested in candidates whose research and teaching interests respect and integrate a variety of methodological approaches. The normal teaching load, assuming an active research agenda, is two courses per semester.

The Department of Political Science

The mission of the Department of Political Science is to promote greater understanding of politics, government, and public policy. We offer a BA and MA in Political Science, a BA in International Relations, and a BS and a Master’s in Public Policy Administration. Our department has a special responsibility to serve our local and global community with objective knowledge, civility, empathy, and democratic engagement. Reflecting this responsibility, our tenure and promotion guidelines encourage faculty to engage in applied research. Many of our faculty work with UMSL’s Community Innovation and Action Center and with community organizations to support inclusive prosperity and civic engagement in the region.

The department maintains a high level of publication of peer-reviewed books, articles and chapters. Our faculty rank above the median faculty in peer departments in all Public and Carnegie R-2 universities. The department also emphasizes first-rate teaching, and faculty have received numerous teaching awards. The Department of Political Science values collegiality, collaboration, and curiosity. We strive to create an environment where our faculty and students can thrive. More information about the department’s academic programs, faculty, and students can be found at https://www.umsl.edu/~polisci/

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Public Policy, Public Administration, Political Science or a closely related field at the time of appointment. ABD candidates are encouraged to apply.
• Evidence of scholarly research and publications
• Experience or potential to effectively teach students from various diverse backgrounds and life experiences
• Interest in community engagement

The University of Missouri–St. Louis

Established in 1963 in suburban St. Louis, UMSL is the largest public university in eastern Missouri with a current enrollment of over 15,000 in day and evening sessions.  This metropolitan research and teaching institution is consistently recognized for its strong programs across disciplines, and it is considered a primary driver of the St. Louis economy, providing industries with educated and capable employees and leaders. UMSL is committed to meeting the diverse needs in the state’s largest metropolitan community and, accordingly, is educating traditional and nontraditional students in undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs so they are prepared to be leaders in health professions; liberal and fine arts; science and technology; and in metropolitan and international affairs such as business, education and public policy. UMSL is a leader in partnerships with key institutions in the St. Louis Region.  Alliances and programs have resulted from collaborations with the Missouri Botanical Garden, Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis Science Center, Danforth Plant Science Center, and many others.

Application Materials

• Applicants should submit a cover letter addressing your interest in the position and how your experience addresses the qualifications listed above. Please also describe how your experiences and expertise align with the UM System Values Statement (below).
• A curriculum vitae
• A writing sample (e.g., paper or journal article)
• A statement of research interests and program(s)
• A teaching philosophy statement reflecting your experience and/or ability to support the success of students from diverse and non-traditional backgrounds

Application Process

All applications must be submitted on the UMSL HR Careers portal. Please combine all application materials into a single PDF and upload to the portal. For full consideration, please submit application by January 30, 2025. The position will remain open until filled. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed via video conference. Finalists will be invited for a campus visit.

https://erecruit.umsystem.edu/psp/tamext/STLOU/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&SiteId=11&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=11&JobOpeningId=54083&PostingSeq=1 

Benefit Summary: Anticipated salary is $74,000 - $77,000. This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

University of Missouri System Values Statement 

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate. In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.