Assistant/Associate Professor of Economics

Specializing in microeconomics or applied econometrics means delving into individual behavior, market mechanisms, and statistical analysis. This focus guides research projects, informing publications and influencing the design of graduate and undergraduate courses in economics departments.

Associate professors usually demonstrate a sustained research record with peer-reviewed publications and proven teaching effectiveness, whereas assistant professors may be earlier in their academic careers but show strong potential through doctoral work and initial research contributions.

Faculty are expected to engage actively in both teaching and departmental service, fostering collegial collaboration. This includes contributing to curriculum development, mentoring students, and participating in academic committees aligned with Auburn University’s supportive faculty environment.

Phenix City and nearby academic hubs like Auburn have a moderate demand for economics faculty, but competition remains strong for tenure-track roles due to limited openings and high candidate quality, especially for specializations like microeconomics and econometrics.

Phenix City offers relatively manageable commute times with access to Auburn and Columbus, GA. However, candidates should assess local traffic patterns and housing proximity to the university to optimize work-life balance.

Professors linked with the American Economic Association often align with its rigorous research standards and ethical guidelines, emphasizing peer-reviewed publications and active participation in economic discourse, which can shape both research agendas and teaching philosophies.

Engagement with the association provides access to cutting-edge economic research and professional development but may also entail heightened expectations for scholarly contributions, conference participation, and adherence to evolving academic standards.

Assistant or associate professors in economics within Phenix City typically earn between $70,000 and $95,000 annually, reflecting regional cost of living and university funding levels, which is competitive yet slightly below major metropolitan academic centers.

This role often serves as a springboard to tenure, leading to associate professorships, research leadership, or administrative roles like department chair, while also opening opportunities in policy advising, consulting, and economic think tanks.

Economics professors balance quantitative research and theoretical instruction, often requiring proficiency in econometric methods, which may contrast with the qualitative focus found in humanities, demanding unique skill sets and publication standards.