Title: Assistant Professor, Special Purpose Faculty - Sociology

Application Review Date: 11/18/2026

Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus

Job Description

The Department of Sociology at Radford University, a regional comprehensive university in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and New River Valley of Southwest Virginia, seeks applications for a nine-month special purpose faculty member at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin August 2027. We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic teacher-scholar with experience teaching Introduction to Sociology and other general education pathways into the major. We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in gender, sexuality, race and ethnicity, inequality, and/or rural health. Experience teaching quantitative methods is also advantageous. The department offers a major and minor in Sociology as well as growing and dynamic minor in African American Studies. The successful candidate will hold a Special Purpose faculty appointment. Special Purpose faculty at Radford University are eligible for reappointment in one-to-three-year terms and are eligible for promotion to Associate Professor and Professor. The successful candidate will teach four classes each semester. Research and service obligations are negotiable.

Required Qualifications

PhD in Sociology, or closely related field, conferred by August 10, 2026; demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring undergraduate students; a record of professional contributions, particularly in the scholarship of teaching and learning. ABD candidates will be considered with confirmation of a graduation date; starting rank will be Instructor.

Preferred Qualifications:

Expertise in gender, sexuality, race and ethnicity, inequality, and/or rural health, and experience in one or more of the following: quantitative methods, applied sociological products, online courses, and the capacity to complement our course and programmatic offerings in sociology including the Center for Social and Cultural Research, Black Studies Center, and/or the Appalachian Studies Minor program.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants should include (1) a cover letter that explains how they meet the required and preferred qualifications, (2) a current vita, (3) a teaching portfolio, and (4) the names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of three references. No additional information is requested at this time. Review of applications will begin November 18, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Aysha Bodenhamer at abodenham3@radford.edu.

Employment Conditions: Radford University is a comprehensive public university of over 7,900 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University serves the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation through a wide range of academic, cultural, human service and research programs. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 211-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 75 bachelor's degree programs in 47 disciplines and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 27 master's programs in 23 disciplines and five doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 21 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master's certificate. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Conference, Radford University competes in 16 men's and women's varsity athletics. With over 200 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development and community service. In addition to robust academic offerings and engaging student experiences on the main campus located in Radford, Virginia, Radford University also offers a clinical-based educational experience for more than 1,000 students living and learning in Roanoke, Virginia as part of Radford University Carilion, a public-private partnership focused on the cutting-edge delivery of health sciences programming, outreach and service.

Is this position Grant Funded: No

Is this position restricted: No

Is this position 100% telework: No

Months per Year: 9

Statement of Economic Interest Required: No

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Classification: Teaching & Research Faculty

Normal Work Schedule: As assigned. Possible nights and weekends.

Employee Classification: Assistant Professor

Department: Sociology, Dept of

Salary: $60,000 to $68,000 (Commensurate with experience, qualifications, and scholarly activity)

Department Contact Name: Aysha Bodenhamer

Department Contact Phone: (540) 831-5130

Department Contact Email: abodenham3@radford.edu

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.

Clery Statement

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university’s policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years’ of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department.

Criminal Background Check Statement

Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code § 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.