Top 10 Questions for International Relations Professor Interview

1. Describe the key concepts and theories in the field of international relations?

• Realism: Focuses on the role of power and national interest in shaping international politics.
• Liberalism: Emphasizes the importance of cooperation, international institutions, and democracy in promoting peace and prosperity.
• Constructivism: Examines how ideas, norms, and social structures shape international relations.
• Critical Theory: Challenges traditional assumptions about international politics and explores the impact of inequality, imperialism, and capitalism.

2. Explain the different sources of international law and how they interact?

Customary International Law

• Practices accepted by states as binding.
• Evidence of state practice and opinio juris (belief that it is obligatory).

Treaties

• Formal agreements between states that create binding obligations.
• Can be bilateral (between two states) or multilateral (between multiple states).

General Principles of Law Recognized by Civilized Nations

• Broad principles of law that are recognized by all states.
• Examples include good faith, pacta sunt servanda (agreements must be kept), and the prohibition on crimes against humanity.

Judicial Decisions

• Decisions of international courts and tribunals can contribute to the development of international law.
• Binding on the parties to the dispute.

Writings of Scholars

• Opinions of respected scholars can influence the interpretation and application of international law.
• Not binding but can carry persuasive weight.

3. Discuss the challenges and opportunities of globalization in the 21st century?

• Challenges: Economic inequality, job displacement, environmental degradation, cultural homogenization, and security threats.
• Opportunities: Increased economic growth, technological advancements, cultural exchange, and the spread of democracy and human rights.

4. How do you assess the role of the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security?

• Strengths: Global platform for dialogue and cooperation, peacekeeping operations, humanitarian assistance, and promotion of human rights.
• Weaknesses: Political divisions, lack of enforcement power, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and financial constraints.

5. Describe the major geopolitical shifts occurring in Asia and their implications for the balance of power in the region?

• Rise of China: Economic and military power, increased influence in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Growing tensions between China and the United States: Competition for regional dominance, disputes over the South China Sea.
• India’s emergence as a regional power: Economic growth, military modernization, and expanding strategic partnerships.
• Role of Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN: Balancing between major powers, seeking regional stability.

6. How do you approach research in international relations and what methods do you consider most effective?

• Qualitative Research: Case studies, interviews, and textual analysis to explore complex issues and gain insights into specific contexts.
• Quantitative Research: Statistical analysis of data to test hypotheses and generalize findings across populations.
• Mixed Methods: Combining qualitative and quantitative approaches to triangulate findings and provide a more comprehensive understanding.

7. Discuss the ethical considerations involved in conducting research on sensitive topics in international relations?

• Protecting human subjects: Informed consent, confidentiality, and minimizing potential harm.
• Avoiding bias: Maintaining impartiality, transparency, and acknowledging limitations.
• Respect for cultural differences: Understanding local customs and sensitivities.
• Balancing academic freedom and public responsibility: Considering the potential implications of research findings on policy and public opinion.

8. How do you engage with students in the classroom and create a dynamic and inclusive learning environment?

• Active Learning: Lectures, discussions, simulations, and problem-solving exercises to foster student engagement.
• Student-Centered Approach: Encouraging student participation, providing feedback, and valuing diverse perspectives.
• Creating a Respectful and Inclusive Classroom: Establishing clear expectations, promoting open dialogue, and challenging biases.
• Assessment Strategies: Designing assessments that encourage critical thinking, encourage diversity of thought, and provide constructive feedback.

9. Describe your approach to curriculum development and how you ensure the relevance and currency of your courses?

• Student Needs Assessment: Identifying learning objectives and student backgrounds.
• Current Events Integration: Incorporating real-world examples and case studies.
• Collaboration with Colleagues: Exchanging ideas, sharing resources, and coordinating courses.
• Curriculum Evaluation: Regularly reviewing course content and student feedback to improve effectiveness.

10. How do you contribute to the wider academic community and engage in professional development?

• Research and Publications: Conducting original research and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
• Conference Presentations: Attending academic conferences to share research findings and engage with colleagues.
• Professional Development: Participating in workshops, seminars, and online learning to enhance knowledge and skills.
• Mentoring and Collaborations: Guiding graduate students and collaborating with scholars on research projects.

International Relations Professors are responsible for teaching and conducting research in the field of international relations. They may also be involved in advising students, developing curriculum, and serving on departmental committees.

1. Teaching

Professors typically teach a variety of courses in international relations, such as:

• Theory of International Relations
• Foreign Policy Analysis
• International Security
• International Political Economy

2. Research

Professors are expected to conduct research in their field of expertise. This research may be published in academic journals, books, and other outlets.

• Research on topics such as:
• The causes of war
• The role of international organizations
• The impact of globalization

3. Advising

Professors may advise undergraduate and graduate students on their academic and career goals. They may also help students to develop research projects and to find internships and jobs.

• Advise students on:
• Course selection
• Career planning
• Research projects

4. Service

Professors may serve on departmental committees and other university committees. They may also be involved in outreach activities, such as giving public lectures and writing op-eds.

• Serve on committees such as:
• Curriculum Committee
• Graduate Admissions Committee
• Faculty Senate

Preparing for an interview for an International Relations Professor position can be daunting, but with the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success.

1. Research the university and department

Before your interview, take some time to learn about the university and department where you are applying. This will help you to understand the institution’s mission, values, and priorities. You should also research the faculty in the department to learn about their research interests and teaching styles.

• Visit the university’s website
• Read the department’s mission statement
• Look up the faculty’s CVs

2. Practice your answers to common interview questions

There are a number of common interview questions that you are likely to be asked, such as:

• “Tell me about your research interests.”
• “Why are you interested in teaching at this university?”
• “What are your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher?”

It is important to practice your answers to these questions so that you can deliver them confidently and concisely.

3. Prepare questions to ask the interviewers

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview shows that you are engaged and interested in the position. It also gives you an opportunity to learn more about the university and department.

• “What are the department’s priorities for the next five years?”
• “What are the opportunities for professional development for faculty?”
• “What is the university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion?”

4. Dress professionally and arrive on time

First impressions matter, so it is important to dress professionally for your interview. You should also arrive on time to show that you are respectful of the interviewers’ time.

• Wear a suit or business casual attire
• Be punctual
• Bring a portfolio of your work

5. Be yourself

The most important thing is to be yourself during your interview. The interviewers want to get to know the real you, so don’t try to be someone you’re not. Just relax, be confident, and let your personality shine through.