Job Description

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

The Department of Criminal Justice & Legal Studies at The University of Mississippi is seeking applications for one, nine-month tenure-track Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice & Legal Studies position. The Department is housed within the School of Applied Sciences in Oxford, Mississippi. The Department currently offers a B.S. in Criminal Justice, a B.S. in Law Studies, a Master’s of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ), an online Master’s in Criminal Justice (MCJ), and a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice Policy Studies.

Job Responsibilities: 
Applicant will be responsible for conducting excellent research, teaching, and providing service to the Department/School/University, the academic discipline, and the community. 

Exceptional Employment Benefits:
The University of Mississippi is proud to offer a comprehensive salary and generous benefits package. Benefits include employer-paid portions of medical, dental, vision, and tuition waiver programs for employees anddependents. In addition, the UM retirement program includes an employer
contribution. UM was named the state’s healthiest workplace among all Mississippi colleges and universities and offers wellness programs. For information about our employee benefits package, visit: Employee BenefitsOverview ( .

Position Details

Appointment 9 Month

Assignment Type Tenure Track 

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in criminology, criminal justice, law studies, or a related discipline (ABDs may apply, but degree must be in hand by the start date of employment). Successful candidates will have a record of peer-reviewed publications in high impact journals, an established capacity to secure and maintain extramural funding, a demonstrated ability to effectively teach undergraduate and graduate students, and a clearly articulated service agenda. Expectations are commensurate with Research 1 institutions. Area of specialization is open, although candidates that can demonstrate an ability to contribute to our graduate programs in terms of teaching and mentoring and who have research expertise in criminal justice policy, legal issues, or related areas are encouraged to apply.

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Application Procedures

Interested applicants should electronically upload a cover letter that includes a description of their teaching, research, accomplishments, and goals (ABD applicants should include a section describing their dissertation progress and timeline for completion), unofficial transcripts, curriculum vitae, and contact information of three professional references.

Review of applications will begin on October 1, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. The desired appointment date is Fall 2026.

Inquiries about the position may be directed to: Dr. Roun McNeal, Search Committee Chair, School of Applied Sciences, Department of Criminal Justice & Legal Studies, University of Mississippi (roun@olemiss.edu).

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

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