Postdoctoral Associate Program

The MIT Center for International Studies (CIS) invites applications for its 2026–27 cohort of Postdoctoral Associates. CIS is dedicated to advancing innovative, policy-relevant scholarship that addresses critical global challenges, and we anticipate appointing two Postdoctoral Associates for the academic year 2026–27.

Eligibility and Scope

We welcome applications from scholars in political science (comparative politics and international relations), environmental science, sociology, anthropology, history, economics, psychology, computer science and related fields—who have earned their PhD no earlier than September 1, 2023, or who will complete all requirements for the degree by the start of the position.

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Exceptional scholarly achievement and promise for policy-relevant research in international studies
• A research agenda that contributes to core international themes aligned with CIS priorities on frontier global challenges (e.g., climate adaptation, environmental degradation, artificial intelligence, inequality reduction, building just societies, conflict resolution, global governance, democratic erosion, health access, science policy).
• An ability to engage across disciplines and participate actively in the intellectual life of the Center and the broader MIT community.

Position Details

• Appointment term: 12 months.
• Location: Postdoctoral Associates are expected to be in residence at MIT at least three days per week during the academic semesters, participating in seminars, workshops, and other CIS activities.
• Salary and benefits: Competitive, with eligibility for full MIT employee benefits.
• Research support: Postdoctoral Associates will receive a research fund of $5,000.

Expectations

Postdoctoral Associates will:

• Pursue their independent research with guidance from a faculty mentor;
• Participate in regular seminars with faculty and other fellows and visitors;
• Engage with CIS-affiliated research initiatives and contribute to a vibrant scholarly community.

Application Requirements

We will begin reviewing applications on October 15, 2025

Applicants must upload the Cover letter and the Curriculum vitae to the MIT HR site.

Please upload the following supplementary materials to this form:

• Research proposal (maximum 5 double-spaced pages)
• Dissertation abstract (including Table of Contents)
• One writing sample (published article or dissertation chapter)
• Proof of PhD completion or a letter from the dissertation advisor indicating anticipated completion by September 1, 2026

Two letters of reference should be sent directly by the letter writers to 
cis-research@mit.edu with the subject line: Applicant’s Name

Contact and Further Information

For more information about MIT CIS, please see here.

If you have any questions about our postdoctoral program, please email 
cis-research@mit.edu.

This position is subject to MIT’s employment eligibility verification and background check policies.