Assistant Professor, Special Purpose Faculty - Sociology

The Department of Sociology at Radford University, a regional comprehensive university in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and New River Valley of Southwest Virginia, seeks applications for a nine-month special purpose faculty member at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin August 2027. We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic teacher-scholar with experience teaching Introduction to Sociology and other general education pathways into the major. We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in gender, sexuality, race and ethnicity, inequality, and/or rural health. Experience teaching quantitative methods is also advantageous. The department offers a major and minor in Sociology as well as growing and dynamic minor in African American Studies. The successful candidate will hold a Special Purpose faculty appointment. Special Purpose faculty at Radford University are eligible for reappointment in one-to-three-year terms and are eligible for promotion to Associate Professor and Professor. The successful candidate will teach four classes each semester. Research and service obligations are negotiable.

Required Qualifications

PhD in Sociology, or closely related field, conferred by August 10, 2026; demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring undergraduate students; a record of professional contributions, particularly in the scholarship of teaching and learning. ABD candidates will be considered with confirmation of a graduation date; starting rank will be Instructor.

Preferred Qualifications:

Expertise in gender, sexuality, race and ethnicity, inequality, and/or rural health, and experience in one or more of the following: quantitative methods, applied sociological products, online courses, and the capacity to complement our course and programmatic offerings in sociology including the Center for Social and Cultural Research, Black Studies Center, and/or the Appalachian Studies Minor program.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants should include (1) a cover letter that explains how they meet the required and preferred qualifications, (2) a current vita, (3) a teaching portfolio, and (4) the names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of three references. No additional information is requested at this time. Review of applications will begin November 18, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Aysha Bodenhamer at abodenham3@radford.edu.

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