Department Chair, Department of Social Sciences, Illinois Institute of Technology

The Department of Social Sciences at Illinois Institute of Technology seeks applicants for the position of department chair. Candidates should have experience with academic leadership; a terminal degree in political science, sociology, geography, public policy, urban planning or a closely related field; and a research record appropriate for appointment at the rank of Full Professor. A successful candidate will show an interest in developing dynamic partnerships with STEM- and policy-related fields, in both curricular and interdisciplinary research initiatives, and will speak to how their research, teaching, or leadership activities have contributed, or will contribute, to a more inclusive and equitable environment in the relevant sectors. Therefore, we seek an individual experienced with interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs who has the ability to take a leadership role in developing new programs and expand existing ones; who will work to connect the social sciences to other areas of strength on the Illinois Tech campus; whose teaching can contribute to our existing curriculum and our planned growth; and who could lead pedagogical efforts to work with Chicago area communities, including the Bronzeville neighborhood where the Illinois Tech campus is located.

THE DEPARTMENT

Situated within the Lewis College of Science and Letters, the Department of Social Sciences has eight full-time faculty members. The department offers bachelor’s degrees in social and economic development policy and in global studies, as well as a new BS degree in science, technology, and society. In addition to its bachelor’s programs, the department plays a central role in delivering the core curriculum requirements of the university. The department also works with the university’s Chicago-Kent College of Law and Stuart School of Business to deliver joint, accelerated courses of study, allowing social sciences undergraduates interested in graduate study in law or public policy and administration to earn those degrees faster. The department is presently developing a joint MS program in Computational Social Sciences with the College of Computing.

THE UNIVERSITY

Illinois Tech is a private Ph.D.-granting research university with world-renowned programs in engineering, architecture, the sciences, humanities and social sciences, psychology, business, law, and design. Founded in 1890, Illinois Tech was built on the promise to provide access to higher education for students from all different backgrounds and to make a difference in the world through technology-oriented education. This guiding mission and purpose – where students, including those underrepresented in technology, could prepare for meaningful roles in a changing industrial society and achieve professional and economic advancement – remains just as relevant today. As such, diversity and inclusion are part of the day-to-day experience at Illinois Tech and a central component of its culture. Illinois Tech is home to a diverse and global student population, is committed to providing opportunities to enhance the diversity of its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply for this position, especially those underrepresented in the field.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants should prepare the following, and send as one pdf file the following directly to the search committee chair Dr. Matthew Bauer (email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) with the subject line “Social Sciences chair search”:

• A brief, one or two page cover letter addressing qualification for the position, ability to lead a small, interdisciplinary department, and general administrative philosophy, which includes illustrative examples of how leadership style has led to specific outcomes,
• A brief, one or two page research statement demonstrating how the applicant’s current research adds to existing strengths in political science, sociology, geography, public policy, or urban planning, and
• A curriculum vitae, including contact information for three references.

References will not be contacted unless applicants are selected for further review. The initial review of applications will begin December 15, 2022 and continue until the position is filled. Questions about this position can be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Matthew Bauer (e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

Illinois Institute of Technology is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, inclusion and diversity. It is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and actively seeks applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities regardless of race, color, sex, marital status, religion, national origin, disability, age, unfavorable discharge from the military, status as a protected veteran, sexual orientation including gender identity and expression, order of protection status, and/or genetic information. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment.