William Burwell Harrison Distinguished Professor of Sociology

The William Burwell Harrison Distinguished Professor of Sociology is a full‑time, tenure‑track position at UNC‑Chapel Hill in Chapel Hill, Orange County, inviting senior scholars to lead innovative research and teaching in the field.

About the Role

This distinguished professorship supports a senior faculty member who will advance the Sociology Department’s scholarly mission through original research, high‑impact publications, and excellence in graduate and undergraduate instruction. The incumbent will also contribute to departmental service, mentor junior faculty, and help shape the strategic direction of sociology programs at the university.

What You'll Do

• Develop and execute a robust research agenda that produces peer‑reviewed articles, books, and scholarly presentations in your specialty area.
• Teach graduate seminars and undergraduate courses, designing curricula that engage students with contemporary sociological theory and methods.
• Advise and mentor doctoral and master’s students, guiding their dissertation research and professional development.
• Secure external funding from federal, foundation, or private sources to support research projects and collaborative initiatives.
• Participate in faculty governance, serve on departmental and university committees, and contribute to academic policy discussions.
• Engage with the broader academic community through conference organization, editorial work, and public scholarship.

What We're Looking For

• A earned Ph.D. in Sociology or a closely related discipline.
• A distinguished record of scholarly achievement, demonstrated by a strong publication portfolio in reputable journals and presses.
• Evidence of outstanding teaching effectiveness, including student evaluations, teaching awards, or innovative pedagogical practices.
• Experience obtaining competitive research grants and managing funded projects.
• Demonstrated leadership ability, including mentoring junior scholars and contributing to collaborative research teams.
• A commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse academic environment.

About UNC-Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the nation’s first public university, renowned for its research excellence, vibrant liberal arts tradition, and commitment to public service. The Department of Sociology boasts a collaborative faculty, strong graduate training, and active engagement with interdisciplinary centers across campus. Situated in the dynamic Chapel Hill–Orange County area, the university offers access to rich cultural resources, a supportive academic community, and a high quality of life.

How to Apply

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.