Assistant Professor of Sociology

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology ( http://socanth.olemiss.edu ) at the University of Mississippi invites applications for a tenure-track position in sociology and health, broadly defined, at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin in August 2025. Areas of preference include but are not limited to mental health, urban/rural health, global health, determinants of health, environmental health, and/or others. Candidates should have an active program of scholarly research and a strong commitment to teaching. Ph.D. in sociology or related field is required at the time of appointment.

This is a 9-month, full-time tenure-track position with responsibilities in teaching, research, and service. Teaching responsibilities include a 3/2 course load with undergraduate and graduate-level classes and thesis supervision. Ability to teach research methods and/or statistics is desirable. While service, research, and teaching will be within the Department of Sociology & Anthropology, a portion of teaching responsibilities may be for the growing Society and Health Minor. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop new courses for both the sociology program and the society and health minor. They will also have the opportunity to be affiliated with the Center for Population Studies, which houses the State Data Center of Mississippi.

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology is committed to building an inclusive, equitable, and supportive environment for scholars and students from historically underrepresented groups. The department is a vibrant intellectual community of award-winning teachers and scholars. Both the Sociology and Anthropology programs offer BA and MA degrees, and cross-disciplinary efforts - from team teaching to collaborative research - are welcomed. Many department faculty are affiliated with other units on campus, such as African American Studies, the Center for the Study of Southern Culture, the Croft Institute for International Studies, and the Sarah Isom Center for Women and Gender Studies. The department also houses the Grisham McLean Institute for Public Service and Community Engagement and the Center for Archaeological Research. The Department of Sociology and Anthropology and the College of Liberal Arts offer resources and support for scholars conducting community-engaged research, and for scholars who incorporate undergraduate and graduate students into their research activities.

Position Details

Appointment: 9 Month

Assignment Type: Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates will hold a Ph.D. in sociology or related field by the time of appointment. They should also have an active research agenda in sociology and health, broadly defined, and ability to teach and mentor students at the undergraduate and graduate M.A. levels.

Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to candidates who expand existing department strengths. Ideal candidates will also have experience in teaching research methods and/or statistics and in collaborating with colleagues and community partners.

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Application Procedures

Interested candidates should apply online at https://careers.olemiss.edu by submitting the following documents: (1) a cover letter outlining their research and teaching qualifications for the advertised position, (2) a C.V., (3) one sample of written work. Review of applications will begin on November 15 and will continue until the position is filled. Candidates selected for further review will be asked to provide additional materials and three letters of reference (to be submitted by the candidate’s referees through the online application website).

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Ana Velitchkova, chair of the search committee at avelitch@olemiss.edu or (662) 915-7421. The University of Mississippi is committed to equity in higher education and seeks to incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion into research, teaching, and service missions. Applicants from underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement
The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Nearest Major Market: Oxford Mississippi