Assistant Professor of Practice

The Professor Of Practice position at American Economic Association emphasizes applied teaching and bridging theory with real-world economic practice. Unlike tenure-track roles, it focuses on experiential learning, managing a 3-3 teaching load, and continual contract renewals, fostering dynamic engagement with an international student body.

Candidates may teach international trade, behavioral economics, or undergraduate macroeconomic electives. Areas like money & banking and international finance are currently staffed, so flexibility to cover adjacent fields enhances teaching breadth within an integrated business management environment.

Needham's proximity to Boston creates a competitive academic hub with several universities seeking economics faculty. Demand for practice-oriented professors is growing, especially those who can connect economics to entrepreneurship and global business trends, making specialized skills highly valued here.

Needham offers suburban living with access to Boston via commuter rail and highways. Candidates should evaluate peak traffic patterns and public transit options, balancing commute convenience with work-life integration, especially given the full-time teaching commitment and possible evening academic events.

A Ph.D. in economics is generally required, though ABD candidates with a firm completion timeline may be considered. Demonstrated teaching excellence, especially in applied economic theory and cross-disciplinary environments, significantly boosts a candidate's prospects in practice-focused academic positions.

While these roles are non-tenure track, continual contract renewal and opportunities to expand teaching portfolios in interdisciplinary settings can lead to leadership roles in curriculum development, academic outreach, or administrative positions within economics departments focused on practice integration.

The association promotes a diverse, inclusive academic environment where professors can engage with a global student body and integrate practical economic perspectives. Faculty benefit from resources fostering innovative teaching methods and collaboration across international business and economics disciplines.

This role uniquely blends rigorous academic standards with a strong emphasis on applied economics, entrepreneurship, and cross-disciplinary teaching, reflecting the association's commitment to leadership in economics education tailored to real-world business applications.

Salaries typically range from $70,000 to $95,000 annually, reflecting full-time, non-tenure track roles in the Boston metropolitan area. Compensation factors include teaching load, experience, and institution prestige, with Babson College known for competitive packages aligned with regional academic standards.

Yes, the Boston area's vibrant academic and entrepreneurial ecosystem fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and diversity. Professors benefit from networking opportunities, interdisciplinary projects, and a student body with strong international representation, enriching their professional experience.