Postdoctoral Fellow
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Department of Sociology at Tulane University invites applications for an 18-month Postdoctoral Fellow in anticipation of a new center focused on the future of work, and the Fellow will be an inaugural affiliate of that initiative. The appointment begins January 5, 2027 and carries a 2-2 teaching load, with protected research time and mentorship from departmental faculty. The Fellow will contribute to the intellectual groundwork of a center through their own scholarly agenda and teaching contributions.
RESEARCH FOCUS
The position is primarily intended for researchers whose work addresses the organization of work, labor markets, employment relations, or the sociology of professions and occupations. Relevant substantive areas include the gig economy and platform labor, labor market inequality and stratification, workplace organization and management, occupational change and the future of work, labor movements and employment relations, professional formation and credentialing, and the intersections of work with race, gender, and class. Methodological approaches of all kinds are welcome.
RESEARCH EXPECTATIONS
The Fellow is expected to maintain an active research agenda throughout the appointment. Fellows will participate in the intellectual life of a future center through collaborations with faculty, inviting speakers, and participating in colloquia or workshops geared to the future of work. The department provides mentorship and participation opportunities. Fellows are encouraged to submit work for publication and to participate in departmental colloquia.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Salary is commensurate with experience. The position includes a full benefits package and eligibility for library and institutional resources.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Applicants should submit the following materials through [Application Portal / Interfolio]: A cover letter describing research agenda and fit with the position; curriculum vitae; a writing sample of no more than 40 pages; and three names and contact information of recommenders. Review of applications will begin October 15, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Questions may be directed to Dr. Vicki Mayer at vmayer@tulane.edu.
Required Applicant Materials:
Interested candidates should submit the following materials:
- A cover letter describing research agenda and fit with the position
- Curriculum Vitae
- A writing sample of no more than 40 pages
- Contact information for at least three professional references
For further inquiries about this position, please email Dr. Vicki Mayer
TEACHING RESPONSIBILITIES
The Fellow will teach two courses per semester. One course will reflect the Fellow's own methodological expertise and research focus. The second will address contemporary trends in the organization of work, labor markets, professions, or employment — topics central to students’ knowledge and skills for future careers.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Ph.D. in Sociology or a closely related discipline, conferred by the start date of the appointment. Demonstrated research specialization in work, labor, organizations, or a related area. Evidence of scholarly productivity commensurate with career stage. Ability to teach effectively at the undergraduate level.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Interest in contributing to the campus-wide conversations leading to the development of a new interdisciplinary center. Experience with community-engaged or policy-relevant research is a plus