Visiting Researcher

Job Summary

The Bruce

D. Benson Center for the Study of Western Civilization (the Benson Center) and the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder invite applications for a Visiting Researcher (Sabbatical Fellow) for the 2027–28 academic year. Scholars from across the humanities and social sciences who engage with the ideas, institutions, and debates that shaped Western civilization and the American founding are invited to apply.

Both established scholars and recent doctoral candidates are welcome. The Visiting Researcher will have access to a private office in the Benson Center and is expected to be in residence at the University of Colorado Boulder to fulfill in‑person responsibilities. Applicants for spring 2028 and any portion of the academic year 2027–28 and/or 2028–29 will be considered.

The Benson Center fosters scholarly excellence in the study of the Western tradition, its culture, languages, and ideas from antiquity to modernity. It focuses on the values emerging from that tradition and their ongoing role in American life. The center is committed to rigorous research, open debate, and sustained dialogue on enduring questions, and seeks to enrich the intellectual life of the University of Colorado Boulder.

• Conduct original research and writing that advances the Benson Center’s mission to understand Western civilization.
• Participate in the various activities of the Center, including seminars and public events.
• Possibly teach undergraduate courses depending on interest and availability.

• Ph.D. at the time of appointment or a doctoral degree in progress with a scheduled dissertation defense.
• Not employed by another institution during the appointment.
• Regular in‑person presence at the Benson Center to contribute to its intellectual life.

• Salary: $6,000–$10,000 per month, depending on experience, plus a signing bonus and incentive pay if available.
• Relocation subsidy and dedicated budget for research.
• Benefits for 50% time or greater appointments, including medical, dental, and life insurance, as well as tax‑deferred annuity and optional savings plans.

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter (up to three pages) describing your research agenda and how it engages the Benson Center’s mission.
• Executive Summary of Proposed Project (up to 200 words)
• Statement of Financial Support indicating the level of support needed and any available from the applicant’s home institution
• Contact information for three references for recommendation letters.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.