Job description
The Justice Studies Department at Northeastern Illinois University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year. Successful applicants will have a demonstrated ability to teach and conduct research in a substantive area focused on the intersections of social inequality with any of the following: criminology, the criminal justice system, the law, and/or restorative and transformative justice. Subspecialties within these areas are open, although a teaching expertise in multiple relevant areas would be particularly welcome, regarding any of the following: critical criminology, critical legal studies, criminal justice system reform, legal reform and constitutional law, and/or restorative and transformative justice – particularly as they intersect with efforts to create a more just society. Expertise in reforms within and alternatives to the criminal-legal system, including grassroots restorative and transformative justice movements is also desirable.
The position carries a 3:3 undergraduate teaching load. The successful candidate will teach core courses in criminal justice and in the pre-law minor, offer criminal justice electives, and contribute to the core curriculum for the major, as well as to interdisciplinary programs at NEIU. Faculty in this position requires on-campus presence at all times. Teaching may take place at any of the university’s locations, including the main campus, El Centro, and the Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies.
In addition to having a dedication to teaching excellence, candidates will be able to work in a culturally diverse environment, have a related critical scholarly research agenda with potential for publications, and have a commitment to service to the institution, profession, and the broader community.
Required Qualifications:
Ph.D. in a social science field and/or a J.D. from an accredited institution; a strong commitment to teaching, scholarship, and service.
This position requires a background check.
Salary: $65,000-$68,000
Benefits:
Benefits for qualifying employees are managed through the Illinois Department of Central Management Service (CMS). More information can be found by visiting the Employee Benefits page. .
How to apply
Complete the online application form – https://forms.gle/qerReGjy5CJ4RG5k8 – which will ask you to upload the following documents:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Statement of Teaching & Research
- Unofficial transcripts
- Evidence of teaching effectiveness (e.g., course evaluations)
- Evidence of research (e.g., dissertation chapter, peer-reviewed journal article, etc.)
In addition, three reference letters should be emailed (with the email subject “Asst Prof Reference for [applicant name]”) to: [email protected]
Copies of unofficial transcripts are accepted; however, official transcripts for all earned degrees will be required of candidates selected for final interviews.
Reviews of eligible applicants will begin on December 8, 2025 and will continue until the position has been filled.
Northeastern Illinois University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and invites applications from Women, Minorities, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities, as well as other qualified individuals. Northeastern Illinois University’s positions are contingent upon the University’s receipt of its State of Illinois appropriation.
