Company Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace! We are a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

Job Description

Please Note: All Postdoctoral positions are being managed through a separate application system. We are sharing them here to increase visibility and accessibility.

Applications submitted through this posting will not be reviewed.

If you are interested in a Postdoctoral position, please apply here.

Position Overview

The Rooney Democracy Institute at the University of Notre Dame is seeking a postdoctoral researcher or visiting PhD student as part of the university’s Democracy Initiative for the academic year 2026-2027. Individuals selected for the postdoctoral position will have the option of renewing their appointment for a second year, conditional on satisfactory performance. Post-doctoral candidates with a Ph.D. in Political Science conferred by June 30th, 2026, are preferred.  A successful visiting PhD student will have a well-developed research agenda and will have completed their dissertation prospectus defense by June 30th, 2026. Expertise in legislative institutions, representation, and/or computational social science within the field of American Politics is required.

The individual selected for this position will be affiliated with the Representation and Politics in Legislatures Lab (RPLL) under the direction of Professors Jim Curry, Jeff Harden, and Rachel Porter. In addition to carrying out independent research, this position will assist in the administration, analysis, and dissemination of the Notre Dame Health of Democracy Survey. They can expect to devote approximately 50% of their time to activities related to research assistantship and collaborations with lab members; 40% of their time to independent research; and 10% of their time to helping administer the Health of Democracy Survey as well as writing public-facing analyses using survey data. The individual selected for the position will have the opportunity to attend and present at the Rooney Democracy Institute Seminar Series, will have dedicated office space in the Political Science Department, a stipend of $5,000 per year for research expenses, and will be part of a cohort of visiting researchers. The salary range for this position is $56,484-$65,640.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit a cover letter that includes a one-page description of your current research, a curriculum vitae, a writing sample, and two letters of recommendation. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2025, but full consideration will be given to all applications received prior to November 15, 2025. This position is located in Notre Dame, Indiana, and includes funding for reasonable moving expenses. Remote work is not an option. APPLY HERE.

Qualifications

Advanced PhD student or Doctorate required. Expertise in legislative institutions, representation, and/or computational social science within the field of American Politics is required.

Additional Information

Please Note: All Postdoctoral positions are being managed through a separate application system. We are sharing them here to increase visibility and accessibility.

Application Deadline to Apply: November 15, 2025

Apply Here

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