Cornell University’s Department of Development Sociology seeks a distinguished scholar to conduct research and teach in the area of global development.  The endowed Polson Professor of Development Sociology is expected to provide intellectual leadership and conduct cutting-edge research in the field of development sociology.  Qualified applicants must have an established record of scholarship and funded research on global development.  Women and minority candidates especially are encouraged to apply.

The Development Sociology Department offers a stimulating environment and support for the Polson Professor to pursue an ambitious research program.  Funds for this endowed position were provided by Robert A. and Ruth E. Polson.  In 2001 this endowment established the Polson Institute for Global Development which promotes theoretical and applied research activities related to global development. The Institute’s mission is to enhance and extend intellectual work and exchange among members of the department, other departments in Cornell University, and among development institutes and organizations worldwide.

Development Sociology Department faculty members understand development as a body of knowledge and institutional practices that shape social, political, cultural and ecological domains. We are located within a College of Agriculture and Life Sciences with research, teaching and outreach responsibilities to produce knowledge, policy inputs, and educational programs that address local and global social problems. The interests of faculty members are broadly related to questions of social and economic change, ranging in scope from global processes to local community development.  More information can be found at http://devsoc.cals.cornell.edu. 

Rank:  Advanced associate or full professor

Starting Date:  July 1, 2009 or as negotiated

Responsibilities:  The position is a 50% research and 50% teaching position with responsibility for 3 courses (2 offered annually, 1 offered in alternate years).  The specific courses taught will be negotiated with the department chair upon acceptance of the position.  The Polson Professor will be expected to provide active leadership in a coherent, externally-funded academic program in global development, conduct research and supervise graduate student research, especially field research, in diverse international settings, and contribute actively to the peer-reviewed academic literature.  Collaboration with programs at Cornell related to development and international studies is expected.

Qualifications:  PhD in Sociology or related discipline. The Polson Professor must be an established social scientist with a distinguished record of academic accomplishments in the area of global development and change reflected in publications, grant-funded research, and teaching.  Additionally the Polson Professor must have demonstrated leadership in program development and be able to work collaboratively with scholars from diverse disciplines.

Salary:  Competitive and commensurate with background and experience

Applications:Submit a letter of application, resume, and names and addresses of three references to:

                                                Professor Max J. Pfeffer, Chair
                                                Development Sociology Department
                                                133 Warren Hall
                                                Cornell University
                                                Ithaca, NY   14853-7801

                                                Review of applications begins February 1, 2009. 

Cornell University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.