Post Doctoral Researcher

Overview

The Center for Cyclone Civics at Iowa State University seeks a post-doctoral researcher interested in conducting research in the general fields of civic education and civic engagement.

The Center for Cyclone Civics was established in April 2025 to promote civic education and free speech. Its focus is to teach civic literacy, foster civic skills, and develop civic dispositions through original research, public events, curriculum and instruction, and outreach. The successful applicant will help establish the Center’s research agenda and profile by designing and carrying out relevant research projects, identifying grant opportunities, designing and assessing civic education pedagogies, and otherwise participating in the life of the Center, the University, and community.

• Design and carry out relevant research projects related to civic education and civic engagement.
• Identify grant opportunities and contribute to proposal development.
• Design and assess civic education pedagogies.
• Participate in the life of the Center, the University, and the surrounding community.
• Help establish the Center’s research agenda and profile.

• Ph.D. or other terminal degree in Political Science, Sociology, Education, History, Philosophy, Journalism and Mass Communication, or a related field.
• Knowledge of key issues in civic education, civic engagement, and free speech (preferred).
• Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research approaches and assessment (preferred).
• Interest in developing a research agenda in the general area of civics (preferred).
• The successful candidate may have the opportunity to teach courses in their discipline, depending on institutional needs (possible).

The position is a two-year, 12-month appointment. The salary is competitive, and Iowa State postdocs are eligible for a complete package of employee benefits. Iowa State University is located in Ames, Iowa, about 40 miles north of Des Moines. It boasts numerous parks and outdoor recreation opportunities, several arts venues, a vibrant downtown, and an affordable cost of living.

Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of research interests, and contact information for three professional references.

(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). For fullest consideration, apply by 5:00 p.m. Central Time on March 13, 2026.