Visiting Scholar in Conservative Thought and Policy

University of Colorado Boulder; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 185,000 - 225,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation subsidy

Administrative assistance

Eco Pass for local transit

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

The University of Colorado Boulder is inviting applications for a Visiting Scholar in Conservative Thought and Policy at the Bruce D. Benson Center. This role is ideal for a distinguished scholar engaged in the principles of conservatism with a commitment to teaching and research.

The candidate will be responsible for teaching undergraduate courses, conducting research, and contributing to dialogue on conservative thought. This role requires residency in Boulder and begins in August 2027.

Qualifications

• Candidates must have a Ph.D. at the time of appointment.
• Expected to engage in conservative thought and policy.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to open dialogue and study of conservatism.
• Teach undergraduate courses and deliver public lectures.
• Conduct original research and participate in Center activities.

Skills

Expertise in conservative thought

Teaching experience

Research skills

Public speaking

Education

Ph.D. in relevant field

Job description

Overview

The Bruce D. Benson Center for the Study of Western Civilization (the Benson Center) and the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder invite applications for the position of Visiting Scholar in Conservative Thought and Policy. We seek a distinguished scholar or public intellectual who has made significant contributions to the understanding of the intellectual foundations, historical development, or practice of conservatism. The ideal candidate will be eminent in their field and engaged with the tradition of conservative thought, policymaking, or both. The term of the appointment is variable, ranging from a minimum of two to a maximum of four semesters. The Visiting Scholar will have access to a private office in the Benson Center and is expected to be in residence at the University of Colorado Boulder to fulfill responsibilities relating to in-person participation. The position begins August 2027.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

The mission of the Benson Center is to foster scholarly excellence in the study of the Western tradition, its culture, languages, and ideas, ranging from antiquity to modernity. The Center is especially concerned with the values that emerge from that tradition and their ongoing role in American life. Integral to this mission is the Center's commitment to rigorous research, open debate, and sustained dialogue on enduring questions. The Center seeks to enrich the intellectual life of the University of Colorado Boulder by fostering viewpoint diversity, engaging the full range of political, economic, and philosophical perspectives, and cultivating the habits of mind essential for informed citizenship and civic leadership.

Responsibilities

• The Visiting Scholar is expected to contribute to the Center and CU Boulder by fostering open dialogue and rigorous study of the intellectual traditions related to conservatism and conservative thought. This may include, but is not limited to, the principles of constitutionalism, ordered liberty, and the cultural, political, and philosophical dimensions of Western Civilization. Specific duties include teaching undergraduate courses, delivering public lectures, conducting original research, and participating in the various activities of the Benson Center.

What You Should Know

• The successful candidate will receive an appointment, without tenure, in the College of Arts and Sciences.
• The candidate is expected to be in residence at the University of Colorado Boulder for the length of the appointment to fulfill in-person responsibilities and duties.

What We Can Offer

• The salary for this 100% position is between $185,000 and $225,000, commensurate with experience.
• The compensation package is competitive, including relocation subsidy, dedicated budget, and administrative assistance.
• Signing bonus and incentive pay may be available, depending on the candidate's experience and the Center’s funding.
• Benefits are available including medical, dental, and life insurance, as well as tax-deferred annuity and optional savings plans, e.g., 403(b), 457, 401(k). An Eco Pass (for the bus system) will also be provided.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

What We Require

• Candidates are expected to have a Ph.D. at the time of appointment.
• It is expected that candidates are not employed by another institution during their time serving as the Visiting Scholar in Conservative Thought and Policy.

What You Will Need

• This is a senior position intended for scholars and public intellectuals who have achieved distinction in their fields.
• Candidates are expected to be accomplished scholars or practitioners who are deeply engaged in the intellectual tradition of American conservatism – whether through the study of conservative political thought, constitutionalism, political economy, or the practice of conservative policymaking – and who can contribute to open dialogue and civic education at a major research university.

Special Instructions

To Apply, Please Submit The Following Materials As PDFs:

• Resume/CV
• Cover letter describing the candidate’s scholarly agenda, areas of teaching competence, and how the candidate would contribute to the mission of the Benson Center
• Please also indicate your preferred timeline, e.g., AY 2027-28 and/or AY 2028-29, in your application materials

During the application process you will need to enter contact information for three references who can write letters of recommendation on your behalf. We will request letters and additional materials, if needed, as the search progresses.

Applications received by September 15, 2026 will be given full consideration. The position will remain open until filled, or May 31, 2027.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.