Assistant Professor

The Department of Philosophy at Northern Illinois University invites applications for a tenure-track appointment, at the rank of Assistant Professor, to begin August 16, 2027. We seek a candidate who shows promise of excellence in teaching and research in the area of epistemology, with competence in metaphysics, philosophy of AI, ethics, logic, or early modern philosophy. Responsibilities include undergraduate and graduate (master’s level) teaching at the standard load (2/2 for research-active faculty), research, advising, and committee work. Ph.D. required by the start date.

Northern Illinois University (NIU) is one of the largest public universities in the state of Illinois, with approximately 16,000 students. NIU is a Carnegie Doctoral/Research University-Higher Research Activity institution located in DeKalb, an affordable and growing community 65 miles west of Chicago. We strive to improve outcomes for all students by identifying and removing barriers that disproportionately hinder the academic achievement and student experience of historically and currently underserved populations. The Department of Philosophy is committed to building and sustaining inclusive and equitable working and learning environments for all its students, staff, and faculty. It offers both a baccalaureate program and a terminal master’s program.

Position Summary

The Assistant Professor of Philosophy will be an active researcher who teaches undergraduate and graduate courses for the Department of Philosophy. Additional responsibilities include committee work and student advising.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate philosophy courses (2/2 for research-active faculty)
• Publish and engage in related scholarly activities
• Provide service to the department, university, and profession
• Mentor students
• Contribute to exam and departmental committees, as needed

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Philosophy by the start date
• Specialization in Epistemology
• Competence in metaphysics, philosophy of AI, ethics, logic, or early modern philosophy

Additional Requirements

• N/A

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated commitment to effective teaching and mentoring a diverse student population

Application Procedure

Full consideration will be given to all applications received by November 6, 2026. Applicants should visit Assistant Professor – Epistemology to submit the following materials:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Writing sample
• Research statement, describing current research and future research plans
• Teaching portfolio, including a statement of teaching philosophy and experience, a sample syllabus for an upper-level epistemology course, and (if applicable) results of teaching evaluations
• Transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable for initial review of application)

In addition, please arrange to have three letters of recommendation sent on your behalf to [email protected].

Applications submitted after November 6, 2026 are welcomed, but will be considered only as needed.

Official graduate transcripts are required upon hire. Successful completion of a background check is also required upon hire.

Questions can be directed to philosophy department chair, Jason Hanna, [email protected].

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

In accordance with applicable statutes and regulations, NIU is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, disability (physical and mental), marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (identity and expression), political affiliation, or any other factor unrelated to professional qualifications, and will comply with all applicable federal and state statutes, regulations and orders pertaining to nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action.