Full-Time Temporary Faculty in American Politics and Public Law

About Framingham State University:

Framingham State University was founded in 1839 for a singular purpose - meeting a public need to promote the public good.  At our founding as the nation's first public normal school, that need was for comprehensively educated public school teachers who would, in turn, promote an educated citizenry.  FSU continues to offer exceptional teacher education programs and, while we are proud of our roots as a teachers' college, we have grown far beyond them.  Public need continues to evolve and FSU right along with it.  Our students and alumni are making waves in the fashion industry, designing nutrition plans for professional athletes, writing for major media and news organizations, and working for Fortune 500 companies right here in Framingham. FSU is unapologetically a public institution offering accessible, affordable educational opportunities that integrate an academically challenging liberal arts education with workforce preparation programs, in a highly personalized teaching environment. Our programs have expanded but our purpose and commitment to public education for the public good remain steadfast. 

At FSU, we are deeply committed to inclusive excellence and strive to promote a culture of antiracism, encouraging a challenging yet collaborative learning environment, and providing culturally relevant education. FSU is designated as an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities and also belongs to the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Inclusive Excellence community, providing national leadership in science education and exploring strategies that will lead to more inclusive science education. We are honored that our commitment earned FSU six Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Awards from INSIGHT Into Diversity. We encourage applications from those who share our commitment to promoting a diverse, welcoming, and inclusive community.

FSU currently enrolls about 3,000 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and professional students, offers 39 undergraduate majors, and enrolls 41% BIPOC students in our undergraduate programs.  Ideally situated between Boston and Worcester, FSU and the surrounding area are steeped in history, achievement, and innovation and provide access to urban hotspots, verdant landscapes, natural and cultural amenities, and diverse communities.

Our founding motto, LIVE TO THE TRUTH, was said at the end of each class by beloved first principal, Cyrus Peirce, who sought to discover and teach "truth in theory and principle...truth in spirit and motive...truth in manner and form...truth intellectual and truth moral." Early leaders found this motto "speaks of sincerity of spirit...of intensity of effort, of resolution to succeed, of joy in achievement." LIVE TO THE TRUTH aptly reflects our past and our pledge for the future as it continues to guide our institution in practice and endeavor. If you share in this quest for truth and a commitment to living it fully, make the next chapter of your career the best chapter at Framingham State University.

Learn more about our career opportunities at www.framingham.edu/careers .

Job Description:

The Department of Political Science, Law, and Global Studies at Framingham State University invites applications for a one-year, temporary (non-tenure-track), full-time position in American politics and public law, beginning in the 2024-2025 academic year.

We are seeking candidates deeply committed to teaching in a liberal arts environment. Full-time faculty members at Framingham State teach three 4-credit courses per semester.

Duties include undergraduate teaching, research and scholarship, and service to the department and Framingham State University. The successful candidate will teach introductory and advanced courses in American government, constitutional and public law, and judicial politics to undergraduate prelaw students. Interest in teaching courses on racial and gender diversity in American politics and law, and/or the intersection of law and technology, is a plus.  Responsibilities will also include serving as the prelaw advisor to students interested in applying to law school. The successful candidate will also demonstrate an active interest in mentoring and inspiring students who are traditionally underrepresented in the field of law and legal careers.

Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• J.D. or a Ph.D. in Political Science in a law-related field.
• ABD will also be considered (PhD must be completed by August 31, 2024).
• Experience teaching relevant undergraduate courses.
• Experience with or a demonstrated willingness to participate in teaching, mentoring, research, or service activities that promote the growth of an equitable, diverse, and inclusive academic environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ph.D. in Political Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience teaching introductory and advanced-level courses in American politics and public law.

Additional Information:

This is a full-time, exempt, benefits-eligible position in the Massachusetts State College Association (MSCA) bargaining unit at a faculty rank commensurate with experience and credentials. Salary commensurate with experience in accordance with Appendix O of the MSCA contract .

Framingham State University conducts criminal history and sexual offender record checks on recommended finalists prior to final employment for all positions.

Framingham State University is an equal opportunity employer.

Members of underrepresented or minoritized groups, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions:

Candidates must apply online by submitting:

• Cover Letter addressing teaching philosophy and any areas of specialization/expertise,
• CV/Resume,
• Equity and Inclusion Statement*, and
• Names and contact information for three professional references (references are not automatically contacted at the time of application).

*An Equity and Inclusion Statement is a personal statement on a candidate's past efforts, as well as future plans, to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion. Regardless of personal demographic characteristics, FSU has a commitment to hiring candidates who share our commitment to the American Association of College and Universities (AAC&U) Inclusive Excellence Model. The equity and inclusion statement is an opportunity for candidates to discuss scholarship, professional skills, experience, and/or willingness to engage in activities that would enhance the university's efforts to promote a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community. Equity and inclusion statements will be considered as part of a transparent and comprehensive review of candidates' application materials.

Official transcripts must be submitted upon appointment. Candidates must apply by May 15, 2024, for full consideration though the position will remain open until filled.

Specific inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Joseph Coelho, chairperson of the department at [email protected]

Framingham State University only accepts application materials through our online application system. We are unable to accept application materials through mail, email, fax, or hand delivery. If you experience technical issues with the online application process, please submit a helpdesk ticket.

Framingham State University understands that persons with specific disabilities may need assistance with the job application process and/or with the interview process. For confidential assistance, please contact the Human Resources Office at 508-626-4530 or [email protected] .