Assistant or Associate Professor of Rural Sociology

Assistant or Associate Professor of Rural Sociology Position Specifics

This is a nine-month, tenure-track position in rural sociology at the assistant or associate professor level with a 60% research and 40% teaching responsibility. Teaching expectations will be three courses per year in the Rural Sociology graduate program and the Community, Environment, and Development undergraduate program, with the possibility of teaching contributions to the Community and Economic Development online master’s program.

The successful candidate will be expected to develop a nationally and internationally recognized research program focused on population health, rural health, health disparities, and/or population aging. Candidates giving attention to spatial disparities or dimensions of these issues are encouraged to apply, though it is not a requirement. The successful candidate will also be expected to develop a robust publication record, secure external funding, and advise and mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

This position is co‑funded by Penn State’s Social Science Research Institute (SSRI). SSRI supports interdisciplinary research by bringing together researchers across the university around emerging areas, and by providing consultation, seed grants, and core research resources.

Doctorate in rural sociology, sociology, demography, or related field. Applications from scholars with quantitative research methods skills are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate must have completed all degree requirements by the appointment date. Applicants should demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to work in multi‑disciplinary teams. The ability to engage professionally with a diverse population of faculty, staff, and students is required, and the successful candidate will actively strive to provide an inclusive learning environment for all.

Review of applications will begin on January 20, 2026, with a start date of July 1, 2026, or as negotiated. Candidates should provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, names and contact information for three references, up to three representative publications or working papers, a statement of research experiences/future interests, and a statement of teaching/pedagogy related to the position description. Employment will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with university policies.

Questions can be directed to the Search Committee chair:
Leif Jensen, Distinguished Professor of Rural Sociology and Demography (lij1).

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page at .

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact . The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging.

We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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