Department: Civic Life and Leadership

Application Deadline: 12/22/2025

Open Until Filled: No

Position Type: Permanent Faculty

Working Title: Professor of the Practice

Appointment Type: Fixed Term Faculty

Full-time/Part-time: Full-Time Permanent

Hours per week: 40

Position Location: North Carolina, US

Hiring Range: Dependent on Experience and/or Qualifications

Proposed Start Date: 01/01/2026

Position Information:

Be a Tar Heel!:

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit:

In 2019, UNC-CH formed the Program for Public Discourse (PPD), recognizing that the complex nature of the pressing issues of our day require reasoned debate rooted in a strong foundation of basic knowledge and a spirit of open intellectual inquiry. To fulfill the ‘democratic competencies’ goals of UNC’s Carolina Next (5.2-3) and in light of increased pressures and challenges facing our democracy, the UNC Board of Trustees identified the need for degree-oriented programs in the area of Civic Life and Leadership and resolved that the campus accelerate development of a School of Civic Life and Leadership. In September 2023, SCiLL was established by the Provost and an act of the North Carolina General Assembly.

SCiLL provides an interdisciplinary home specifically for the study and practice of public discourse, civic life, and civic leadership. SCiLL provides students a grounding in the foundations and current state of American political experience and democracy. A wide range of courses build on this foundation to encourage thoughtful engagement with democracy and civility through a variety of disciplines.

Position Summary:

The School of Civic Life and Leadership (SCiLL) at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill is advertising for a Professor of the Practice in SCiLL. The successful candidate will teach courses in SCiLL’s core areas of Fundamental Texts and Ideas, The American Civic Tradition, and Civic Discourse and Leadership. We are especially looking for teachers who can offer courses on the American political tradition. The successful candidate will manage the day-to-day operations of SCiLL’s ‘Summer Civics Institutes for Educators and High School Students.’ This summer k-12 program will offer a continuing education experience in civics to high school social studies teachers and introduce high school students to university life through the study of American civics and civil discourse. Program management or service experience at the university level is required. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience working with high school students and faculty.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in political science or related field.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:

Preference will be given to candidates who have experience working with high school students and faculty.

Special Instructions:

Review of applications will begin December 19, 2025.