The Department of Justice, Law, Criminology & Security in the School of Public Affairs at American University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-line Assistant or Associate Professor position, beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year. The department seeks an established scholar with substantive expertise in criminological theory and a demonstrated research agenda examining race, structural inequality, and social production of crime and justice outcomes. The successful candidate will strengthen the department’s capacity in foundational criminological theory while contributing to contemporary scholarship and debate that advances understanding of inequality within the criminal justice system.

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in criminology, sociology, or other closely related discipline; a J.D. or LL.M. alone does not satisfy this requirement. Candidates must demonstrate excellence in scholarly research, effective teaching, and professional accomplishment commensurate with appointment at the Assistant or Associate Professor rank. Competitive candidates will have a sustained record of publication in high-quality peer-reviewed outlets, expertise in social science research methods, and the capacity to contribute to mentoring doctoral students, program development, and other forms of academic leadership. All faculty are expected to hold office hours and participate in department, school, and university activities and service.  

Teaching responsibilities will include required and elective courses. Possible courses include Criminology Theory, Race and Justice, research methods, and other areas aligned with the applicant’s expertise. The Department is home to a range of disciplines, approaches, and methods. The search committee is especially interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service, will contribute to the inclusive excellence of the academic community. 

Salary and benefits are competitive, with an expected salary range of $90,000-$120,000. 

Review of applications will begin on September 28, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled, subject to ongoing budgetary approval. The position begins on August 1, 2027.  Applicants should have a PhD or an anticipated PhD completion date by August 2027. 

Please submit applications via Workday. Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, copies of up to three recently published articles and/or working papers, and three letters of recommendation. Applicants who currently hold tenure may submit the names and contact information of three references in lieu of the three letters of recommendation. Please contact Tatiana Williams at twilliams@american.edu if you have any questions.