Description
The Center for Middle East Studies at Brown University seeks to appoint a political scientist with expertise in the Middle East and North Africa to a two-year postdoctoral research associate position, not renewable thereafter. Preference will be given to candidates with a Ph.D. in political science whose research is focused primarily on the MENA region.
The postdoctoral research associate will receive two years of support, with the expectation that they will pursue research and participate fully in the intellectual life of the Center. The research associate will teach one introductory survey course on the politics of the Middle East and North Africa each year, while advising students and participating in research-related programming on campus.
The Center is especially interested in qualified candidates who can contribute, through their research, teaching, and/or service, to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.
Qualifications
Scholars who have received their Ph.D.s within two years of the application deadline are eligible to apply. Applicants must have completed their degree by June 30, 2027. The selection process is open with regard to nationality and geographic area of research.
Individuals who are currently – or have previously been – postdoctoral fellows or postdoctoral research associates in other programs are not eligible to apply.
The postdoctoral research associate is required to be in residence during the academic year, and will receive an annual stipend for the 2027–28 academic year of $66,965, plus benefits, in keeping with university-wide compensation standards. Additional funding can be made available for research expenses and research-related programming on campus.
For this position, Brown offers only the J-1 visa classification to scholars who need immigration sponsorship in order to enter the U.S. and commence lawful employment under the terms of their appointment.
Application Instructions
Review of applications will begin on December 7, 2026. To receive full consideration, applications should be received by that date. The award will be announced towards the end of February 2027.
The following materials should be submitted to the application portal in Interfolio by December 7, 2026.
- A cover letter stating the applicant's academic field, status of their dissertation and proposed research to be conducted during their appointment period. Applicants should also address how they would contribute to the research and/or teaching missions of our diverse and inclusive university community. The cover letter should not exceed 2,000 words.
- An up-to-date curriculum vitae
- A writing sample
- A syllabus for an introductory undergraduate survey course on the politics of the Middle East and North Africa.
- Three confidential letters of recommendation from scholars familiar with the applicant’s research.
- Candidates who advance to the shortlist stage will supply graduate transcripts.
For further information, please contact Center Director, Professor Elias Muhanna, at CMES_Director@brown.edu.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.