Program Description
Michigan State University actively promotes a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives and backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry.
The College of Social Science Dean’s Research Associate Program at Michigan State University was established in 2018. The program aims to promote inclusive excellence by recruiting early career scholars who demonstrate potential to bring distinction to MSU, substantially enhance the College of Social Science standing, and support the advancement of Institutional Access, Opportunity, and Excellence.
The Dean’s Research Associates will have a minimal teaching load, will be mentored and supported, and will participate in an SSC Dean’s Research Associate Development Institute, with the goal of transitioning them into tenure-system positions at Michigan State University. All interested and qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Faculty Expertise
Since its inception, through this innovative program, we have established four cohorts of social scientists who have enriched the student and research experience.
Appointments
Appointments will be made to applicants who show promise for tenure-track positions in Michigan State University’s College of Social Science in accordance with MSU academic hiring process. Each appointment is for a minimum of 9 months, renewable for an additional year, contingent upon a demonstration of meeting the performance expectation in research and teaching, with an emphasis on demonstrated research productivity. The selected candidate will receive a salary that is comparable to that of a starting Assistant Professor in the Research Associate’s discipline, plus benefits, and a budget for research and travel. Transitioning into a tenure-track faculty position at Michigan State University will require a series of structured, merit-based evaluations, which will include substantial peer input. MSU’s academic hiring process will be followed in appointing the candidates that advance into the tenure-track.