Job Description

The Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) Program at the University of Pennsylvania invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship beginning Fall 2026. The fellowship lasts one year, with the possibility of annual renewal for up to four additional years, contingent upon a satisfactory performance review and funding.

We seek a scholar whose research engages with questions at the intersection of political philosophy, philosophy of social science, and public policy. We are especially interested in candidates working on topics such as collective action and cooperation, the design and evaluation of policy interventions, social norms and institutions, trust and social capital, or the philosophical foundations of behavioral and social scientific inquiry. Candidates who bridge normative and empirical approaches, for instance, by connecting experimental methods with questions in political philosophy are particularly encouraged to apply.

The fellow will be affiliated with the PPE Program and will have the opportunity to participate in the intellectual life of Penn's Department of Philosophy and the Center for Social Norms and Behavioral Dynamics. Duties include pursuing an independent research agenda, presenting work in departmental colloquia and workshops, and contributing to the PPE community through teaching each semester one small, advanced interdisciplinary seminars of their choice, and each year one research seminar to train a small number of students to conduct research in their field.

Applicants must have completed a PhD in philosophy, political science, or a closely related field by the start of the appointment. Candidates who are ABD at the time of application may be considered provided they expect to defend before the appointment begins. A demonstrated record of interdisciplinary engagement and a strong research trajectory are essential.

Application Materials

• Cover letter describing research interests, current projects, and fit with the PPE Program

• Curriculum vitae

• Writing sample (no more than 15,000 words)

• Two course descriptions for upper level undergraduate seminars (approx 150 words each)

• Two letters of recommendation

For questions, please contact ppe-program@sas.upenn.edu.

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

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