Post-Doctoral Scholar
The John Glenn College of Public Affairs and The Kirwan Institute
Position Overview
The John Glenn College of Public Affairs and Kirwan Institute of the Study of Race and Ethnicity at The Ohio State University invite applications for up to two postdoctoral scholar positions. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible, 12-month (1.0 FTE) position that begins Spring or Autumn semester 2026 with a possible renewal for a second year based on satisfactory performance.
This position is designed to be a career-building step for early-career scholars. We are eager to engage with candidates whose research is at the intersection of the study of public affairs, race and ethnicity, and one of the following specialty areas: housing, criminal justice, or early childhood policy. We are particularly interested in candidates who employ both qualitative and quantitative methods and who have experience working with large administrative datasets.
The candidate will split their time between the Kirwan Institute and the Glenn College. The successful candidate is expected to collaborate with faculty members, researchers, and students on research projects, initiate new funded projects, and disseminate research results via conferences, policy documents, and academic publications. The postdoctoral scholar will fully participate in the academic life of Glenn College and the Kirwan Institute, have opportunities to gain teaching experience, and participate in professional development programs by Ohio State’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. Ohio State offers a comprehensive benefits package. Please click here to learn more.
Successful candidates must have obtained a PhD prior to starting the position in public affairs or a related field. We desire applicants with the potential to become productive and impactful researchers, effective teachers, and conscientious and engaged community members.
Performance Objectives
50%: Performs research, teaching, and/or service in coordination with the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. Collaborates with faculty members, researchers, and students on research projects, initiates new funded projects, and disseminates research results via conferences, policy documents, and academic publications. Fully participates in the academic life of Glenn College and participates in professional development programs by Ohio State’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.
50%: Performs research and service in coordination with the Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity. Collaborates with faculty members, researchers, and students on research projects, initiates new funded projects, and disseminates research results via conferences, policy documents, and academic publications.
Education and Experience Requirements
Required:
- Demonstrate the potential to conduct high quality research in public affairs and at least one of the following areas: housing, criminal justice or early childhood policy.
- Have, or be on track to complete before starting the position, a Ph.D. in Public Affairs or a related field.
Desired:
- Experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research and has requisite qualitative and quantitative data collection, coding, and analysis skills.
- Experience working with large administrative data sets.
- Experience with community engaged research or conducting research with state and local government partners.
How to Apply
To be considered, please submit your application electronically via Workday [LINK]. Once you start the application you will need to fill it out to completion and upload each of the required materials. Please be aware that you will not be able to edit your application or required materials after submission. Application materials must include:
Application closes 10/30/2025
Required:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vita (CV)
- Statement of Research
- Published or working research paper
- Three professional reference letters
