The Department of Psychological Science at Boise State University invites interested applicants to apply for the position of Assistant Professor starting in Fall 2026. We're seeking a dynamic colleague with an active research program that will genuinely engage our undergraduate students and contribute to our teaching needs in cognitive psychology, biological psychology, learning, sensation and perception. Candidates should have a research program that can produce at least three peer-reviewed publications (at least one first-author) within the five years preceding their application for tenure. The successful candidate will also participate in service activities (e.g., committee assignments) that benefit the Department, our College of Arts and Sciences, the University, as well as the local community, state, region, and discipline.
The successful candidate will join a department dedicated to curriculum and pedagogy that is responsive to the students it serves. The successful candidate will be able to engage students in the classroom using evidence-based and inclusive teaching practices. The standard teaching load is 1 to 3 courses per semester, depending on class size, with possible adjustment for service activities or work on externally funded research projects. Flexibility in course modality and scheduling is available. This is a nine-month academic year tenure track position, with opportunities for salary enhancement through summer teaching or work on externally funded research projects.
Department Overview
The Department of Psychological Science boasts a highly interdisciplinary faculty with a strong history of success in teaching, research, and service. As a department, we value effective mentorship, cooperative and supportive interpersonal relationships, data-informed decision-making, and providing a rigorous evidence-based curriculum that is responsive to all the students it serves. We have active relationships with multiple organizations in the community, including state agencies, schools, and various non-profit organizations. Additionally, Boise State University offers rich opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with other departments in the College of Arts and Sciences and throughout Boise State, including the recently launched interdisciplinary Neuroscience major.
About Boise State
Boise State University is a powerhouse of creativity, research, and impact. Our campus sits along the Boise River and reaches into the heart of Idaho’s capital – a vibrant hub for innovation, culture, and outdoor adventure. We’re nationally recognized for trailblazing research, student success, and community impact.
Our faculty are scholars, mentors, and changemakers who advance ideas, discoveries, and the next generation of leaders. Boise offers the perfect backdrop – a welcoming city with a thriving arts scene, growing tech sector, and mountains on the horizon. Join us and help shape a bold, collaborative academic community.
Learn more about faculty careers at Boise State and the City of Boise.
At a minimum, candidates should have:
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An earned doctorate in cognitive psychology by August 1, 2026. ABD will be considered pending the conferral of the degree by this date
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Experience teaching at the undergraduate level
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Demonstrated experience, or clear potential for, managing a research program that involves undergraduate research assistants
The preferred candidate will have:
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Experience with evidence-based teaching practices
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Demonstrated success or potential for success in teaching, research, and service
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An established research program involving undergraduate students
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Positive student course evaluations or other evidence of effective teaching (e.g., teaching observations)
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Experience teaching desired courses (primarily cognitive psychology; secondarily biological psychology, learning, sensation and perception)
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A breadth of teaching experience (i.e., class sizes and modalities)
Required Application Materials
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A cover letter outlining your interests and qualifications relating to teaching, research, and service
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A current CV, including names and contact information for three professional references (no letters at this time, please)
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Research statement, including your plan for including undergraduates in your program
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Teaching statement, including discussion of implementation of or preparation for evidence-based teaching practices
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Summary of teaching effectiveness (e.g., teaching evaluations, observations, etc.)
Closing Date
Interested applicants should electronically submit their applications by 11:55 p.m. MST on November 1, 2026. Please ensure that all requested application materials are uploaded prior to submitting the online application.
Salary and Benefits
Salary (9-month contract) starts at $63,000 and is commensurate with experience. The successful candidate will also receive some start-up funding to support their research.
Our standard faculty contract is a 9-month contract (unless otherwise noted) with pay and benefits spread over 12 months. This is a yearly, renewable contract, unless noted that the position is temporary. More information about the faculty contract and work days is available here.
Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package, including (but not limited to):