Cornell University Postdoctoral Associate in Political Economy and Technology 2026/2027: PhD Research Opportunity in Communication, AI and Technology
Cornell University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate in Political Economy and Technology within its Department of Communication. The fellowship-style appointment is designed for early-career scholars ready to investigate a new, original empirical research question.
Overview
Cornell University, through its College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the Department of Communication, is offering a Postdoctoral Associate position focused on the political economy of technology. The role is designed for early-career researchers to step away temporarily from their dissertation projects and investigate a new, original empirical research question regarding how technology reshapes political and economic systems. The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. danah boyd and her research team in Ithaca, New York.
The appointment is for one year with a possible renewal of up to an additional year. The start date is flexible, but must begin no later than August 30, 2027. The salary range is $64,000 to $70,000 per year. Responsibilities are divided into independent primary research (50%), supporting Dr. boyd's research (25%), and contributing to the intellectual community and mentoring graduate students (25%).
Eligibility
- Must hold a PhD in the social sciences, Science and Technology Studies (STS), history, or another relevant field, completed and officially in hand by the position start date.
- Must be no more than two years post-completion of the PhD.
- Must have demonstrated significant empirical research experience during doctoral work, with a strong background in qualitative research methodologies such as ethnography and interviews.
- Must be able to relocate to Ithaca, New York, and spend at least 50% of working time there during the academic year.
Benefits
- Salary range of $64,000 to $70,000 per year.
- Project and travel support, alongside opportunities to pursue external funding and collaborate on grant proposals.
- Opportunity to work directly with Dr. danah boyd and participate in an active academic research environment.
- Chances for co-authorship and building an expanded academic research profile.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through Academic Jobs Online. Candidates must prepare and submit the following required materials:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A 1–2 page cover letter detailing research and theoretical interests, along with a desired start date.
- A two-page project proposal outlining the research question, approach, data collection strategy, access plan, and theoretical framework.
- One substantial dissertation chapter and a separate one-page dissertation cover letter.
- An article-length academic paper.
- Names and contact information for three references.
Deadline
The official application deadline is November 1, 2026, at 03:59 AM GMT. However, applicants should note that review of applications begins earlier, on October 16, 2026.