The NotreDame Postdoc 2026 at the University of Notre Dame is now open for applications. Hosted by the Keough School of Global Affairs within the Klau Institute for Civil and Human Rights, this one-year Postdoctoral Scholar position focuses on migration, immigration policy, poverty, and democratic governance. The NotreDame Postdoc is a full-time, in-person appointment based in South Bend, Indiana, with an anticipated start date of August 1, 2026.
This competitive NotreDame Postdoc 2026 offers a salary of up to $75,000, a moving allowance, and the possibility of renewal for up to two years depending on performance and funding availability.
About the NotreDame Postdoc 2026
The NotreDame Postdoc is part of a broader poverty and migration research initiative led by Dr. Alexander Kustov, Associate Professor of Migration. The research program aims to identify politically sustainable immigration policies and examine how democracies can expand regular migration pathways while minimizing public backlash.
The research builds on Dr. Kustov’s recent book, In Our Interest: How Democracies Can Make Immigration Popular, which explores the political conditions under which citizens support freer immigration policies.
The NotreDame Postdoc 2026 will contribute directly to this ambitious research agenda by combining survey data, administrative data, policy analysis, and comparative case studies.
Research Focus of the NotreDame Postdoc
The NotreDame Postdoc is heavily research-focused, with at least 60% of time dedicated to collaborative research with Dr. Kustov. The remaining 40% may be devoted to the scholar’s independent research agenda, ideally related to migration, public opinion, poverty, or democratic governance.
Core research responsibilities include:
- Conducting literature reviews and advanced data analysis
- Collecting, managing, and analyzing survey and administrative datasets
- Designing and testing new research questions and hypotheses
- Publishing high-quality research outputs
- Preparing grant proposals
- Translating academic findings into accessible formats such as policy briefs and explainers
- Participating in project meetings and academic activities
The NotreDame Postdoc 2026 also requires active engagement with the intellectual life of the Klau Institute, the Keough School, and the broader University of Notre Dame community.
Salary and Benefits
The NotreDame Postdoc provides a competitive compensation package:
- 12-month salary up to $75,000
- Salary aligned with NIH NRSA stipend levels
- Moving allowance up to $2,500
- One-year appointment (August 1 – July 31)
- Possible renewal for up to two years
This makes the NotreDame Postdoc 2026 an attractive opportunity for early-career scholars seeking both financial stability and high-impact academic research experience.
Required Qualifications for the NotreDame Postdoc
Applicants for the NotreDame Postdoc 2026 must meet the following requirements:
- A Ph.D. (completed by start date) in Political Science, Economics, Public Policy, Sociology, or a closely related field
- Strong research background in migration, immigration policy, public opinion, or democratic governance
- Proficiency in R
- Familiarity with agentic AI research tools
- Expertise in quantitative research methods and data visualization
- Ability to independently design and conduct research
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Desired Qualifications
Preferred but not mandatory qualifications include:
- Knowledge of Stata, Python, causal inference, or survey methodology
- Familiarity with U.S. and comparative immigration policies
- Experience in science communication for broader audiences
Candidates who combine strong technical data skills with policy-relevant research experience will be especially competitive for the NotreDame Postdoc.
Application Process
Applications for the NotreDame Postdoc 2026 must be submitted via Interfolio’s Faculty Search system.
Applicants must provide:
- Two-page cover letter outlining motivation, qualifications, and research agenda
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Writing sample (sole-authored journal article or dissertation chapter)
- Two confidential letters of recommendation
Application review begins March 20, 2026, and continues until the position is filled.
Why Apply for the NotreDame Postdoc?
The NotreDame Postdoc 2026 offers a unique opportunity to:
- Work on cutting-edge migration research
- Collaborate with leading scholars
- Strengthen quantitative and policy research skills
- Publish high-impact academic work
- Engage with interdisciplinary research communities
- Translate research into policy-relevant outputs
For scholars interested in migration policy, democratic governance, and poverty research, this position provides a strong foundation for a long-term academic or policy career.
Final Note
The NotreDame Postdoc 2026 is a competitive and prestigious opportunity for early-career researchers seeking to make meaningful contributions to migration and policy research. With strong institutional support, competitive funding, and a clear research agenda, this postdoctoral position offers both academic growth and professional advancement.
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