Iowa State

Postdoc Research Associate - Political Science

Ames, IA Part time

Position Title:

Postdoc Research Associate - Political Science

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Department of Political Science in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is hiring a short-term Postdoc Research Associate during the Spring 2026 semester to collaborate on the final stages of a book on policy analysis that is under contract with Oxford University Press (OUP). Responsibilities include researching and synthesizing literature relevant to the content of the chapters and an online companion to the book, writing original contributions to the book (such as vignettes, case studies, and exhibits), copyediting in accordance with OUP requirements, and other essential work such as cross-checking references, identifying copyright materials, and ensuring compliance with the OUP’s requirements and guidelines.

Required Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. in a field relevant to the position description

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Understanding of academic research and publication

  • Knowledge of the public policy process focused on how policies are implemented and analyzed

  • Practical experience with one or more policy areas

  • Strong background in the use of Microsoft Office tools and other software, such as Adobe Acrobat

  • Advanced knowledge related to Artificial Intelligence applications

Proposed Start Date:

January 26, 2026

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

March 25, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Part time

Application Instructions:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Postdocs enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing Program

Original Posting Date:

January 13, 2026

Posting Close Date:

January 20, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R18450