Vacancies

Faculty Member in Political Science and Sociology

(Target rank of Assistant Professor based on qualifications and experience; possible consideration at Associate or Full Professor levels for exceptional candidates)

School: School of Arts and Sciences

Programme: Social Sciences and Humanities
Reports to: Associate Dean, Naryn Campus
Duty Station: Naryn Campus, Kyrgyz Republic
Application Deadline: Open until filled (reviewed on a rolling basis; early applications encouraged)

Position Summary

UCA’s School of Arts and Sciences seeks an Academic Faculty Member in Political Science and Sociology to undertake research and teach survey and elective courses across our Naryn(Kyrgyzstan) and Khorog (Tajikistan) campuses. Teaching is in English and in small classes that enable close academic engagement. The post is based in Naryn with periodic teaching visits to Khorog (2–3 short visits per semester); some modules may be delivered online as needed. The successful candidate will contribute to curriculum development, supervise student research, provide service to the University and pursue an active research agenda—ideally engaging UCA’s Graduate School of Development, other interdisciplinary research units and external partners.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent from an internationally recognised university in Political Science or Sociology
• Fluency in English. Knowledge of Russian, Tajik, or Kyrgyz is an asset.

Academic Experience 

• A strong record of research output (i.e., international peer-reviewed journals), or strong evidence of the potential for a strong research output.
• A record of multi- or interdisciplinary collaboration in academic activities, including teaching, research, community engagement, knowledge exchange etc.
• Demonstrated commitment to teaching and student development, preferably with a minimum of three years of undergraduate-level teaching experience
• Proven ability to design and deliver new, engaging courses that are both discipline-based and interdisciplinary
• Experience employing innovative teaching methods and diverse evaluation techniques
• Track record in training and mentoring tutors and junior faculty
• Evidence of presenting research at significant academic conferences
• Research experience in or related to Central Asia is an asset
• Experience leading academic initiatives (e.g., supervising theses, coordinating modules, mentoring tutors, applying for collaborative grants) is an asset
• Prior teaching experience in Central Asia is considered an advantage
• Experience in service (administration, management, and/or leadership) to the university is an asset. 

UCA Background:

The University of Central Asia (UCA) was founded in 2000 as a private, not-for-profit, secular university through an International Treaty signed by the Presidents of Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, and His Highness the Aga Khan; ratified by their respective parliaments, and registered with the United Nations. The Presidents are the Patrons of the University, and His Highness is the Chancellor. UCA’s mission is to promote the social and economic development of Central Asia, particularly its mountain communities, by offering an internationally recognised standard of higher education and becoming a leading research university in the region and internationally. UCA brings with it the broader commitment and partnership of the Aga Khan Development Network. For more information: www.ucentralasia.org  

Compensation and Benefits 

UCA offers a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits typically include housing or housing allowance, relocation support, medical insurance, visa/work permit sponsorship, annual leave, and professional development funding. Where available, UCA also provides home-leave travel, schooling support, and campus housing options.

Why Join UCA? 

• Impactful Teaching and Research: Contribute to an academic institution that is dedicated to fostering innovation and development in Central Asia and beyond.
• Collaboration and Growth: Be part of a diverse, interdisciplinary academic environment with opportunities for collaboration and research across multiple fields of societal relevance.
• Regional Leadership: Lead the development of innovative solutions to regional challenges in technology, data science, and digital policy.
• Support for Female Scholars: UCA is deeply committed to supporting female scholars in all fields, providing opportunities to further advance gender equity in academia.

How to Apply: Please submit your application (cover letter, CV, and contact information of three references) at https://tinyurl.com/57r6v4uh. 

Applications will be reviewed when received. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

Review other job vacancies at: https://tinyurl.com/3yhe9wkt