Teaching Assistant Professor of Intelligence Analysis and National Security – Department of Political Science

The Department of Political Science at West Virginia University invites applications for a Teaching Assistant Professor with a specialization in National Security and Intelligence Analysis starting January 1, 2026. This is a 9-month, full-time, position with full benefits. Teaching Assistant Professor appointments have renewable terms of up to three years, with no limit on the number of terms. These positions are eligible for promotion (e.g., Teaching Assistant Professor to Teaching Associate Professor, etc.); however, promotion to senior ranks is not a requirement for institutional commitment and career stability. The teaching load is four courses or course equivalents per semester.

The Department of Political Science offers a full range of academic programs (B.A., M.A., and Ph.D.) and has 16 full-time faculty, 36 graduate students, and about 400 undergraduates, a majority of whom are in the Pre-Law Area of Emphasis. The department faculty are active in research on American and state politics, class politics, comparative elections, computational methods, conflict analysis, congressional politics, contentious politics, International Relations, political and economic inequality, public opinion, public policy, racial and ethnic politics, religion and politics, representation, and state courts. The department’s methodologically rigorous doctoral program offers fields in American politics, comparative politics, international politics, and public policy. Additionally, the department houses the International Studies Program, which is an interdisciplinary undergraduate major focusing on national security, diplomacy, and development.

Responsibilities

We seek an outstanding and dedicated educator who will be responsible for teaching courses in Political Science and International Studies. The successful applicant may teach courses in: Introduction to Intelligence Analysis, Intelligence Analysis Methods, National Security, and additional relevant courses in the candidate’s area of expertise. Additionally, the candidate will be responsible for the Open-Source Intelligence Exchange (OSIX) Lab and other experiential learning opportunities related to Political Science and International Studies. The applicant must maintain working relationships with the intelligence, foreign policy, and/or defense policy communities to draw insights, skills, and connections to facilitate student research and analysis to real-world Application. The candidate will also contribute to advising and recruitment efforts in the Department and provide high-quality mentorship to undergraduate students. The teaching load is 4 courses or course equivalents per semester.

Morgantown, WV is a growing university city. The area offers abundant outdoor recreation and the cultural opportunities of a college town. It is within easy driving distance of Pittsburgh, PA (70 mi) and is within a day’s driving distance to Washington DC and Columbus, OH (200 mi). West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees. From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures. At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers. Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visitwvu.edu.

Professional Qualifications

• A Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in Political Science or a related field OR a Master’s Degree in Political Science or related field is required.
• 10 years of professional experience working in national intelligence, national security, or foreign policy and/or defense policy is required.

In addition, the successful applicant must show: 1) evidence of or strong potential to teach undergraduate courses that may include: International Studies, Introduction to Intelligence Analysis, Intelligence Analysis Methods, National Security; 2) evidence of or the potential to advise students and student success initiatives; 3) excellent written and oral communication skills; and 4) excellent interpersonal skills.