Visiting Research Scholar

Princeton University's Center for the Study of Democratic Politics (CSDP) seeks visiting scholars for 12-month positions expected to start in August 2027. The Center supports empirical research on democratic political processes and institutions.

Applications are welcome from political scientists and scholars in related social science disciplines. CSDP visiting scholar positions are restricted to employed scholars on leave who are expected to return to their positions. Each scholar will pursue research and contribute to the intellectual life of the Center, the Department of Politics, and the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. CSDP scholars are expected to participate in the weekly CSDP seminars and related weekly research seminars in the Department of Politics, as well as occasional lectures, conferences, and other events.

Visiting scholars from academic institutions often receive up to one-half of their academic-year salaries from their home institutions for the appointment period. The amount that Princeton contributes to the scholar's salary will be determined based upon their salary at the home institution and will normally not exceed $70,000.00, plus benefits support. Selected candidates will be asked to indicate, or provide written authorization for Princeton to confirm, what percentage of financial support their home institution and other sources are likely to provide during their visit, if any, and to submit a confidential statement indicating salary for the current academic year (September 1, 2027 - July 1, 2028) or provide written authorization for Princeton to confirm their salary. Successful candidates will also receive one trip to and from Princeton and a research allowance. Selected candidates will be required to be in residence in Princeton or the local vicinity or demonstrate to the program's satisfaction the ability to be on campus on a daily basis and on short notice in order to fulfill responsibilities relating to in-person participation for the duration of the fellowship (August 2027 - August 2028).

Qualifications

Verification of employment will be requested prior to approval by the Office of the Dean of the Faculty. PhD or equivalent doctoral degree required. Application instructions Applicants must apply online and submit a CV, one (1) reference contact information, a 4-6 page (double-spaced) statement of research interest/research proposal, a writing sample, and a statement of the home institution's leave policy. A cover letter is optional. The deadline for receipt of complete applications is Monday, October 19, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

The work location for these positions is in-person on campus at Princeton University. These positions are not eligible for sponsorship of an H-1B visa requiring consular processing.