A New Chapter Begins for a Political Science PhD

Jake Shaw, who earned his doctorate in political science from the University of Missouri–St. Louis last spring, is set to start a tenure‑track assistant professor role at DePauw University in Indiana this August. The transition from graduate student to faculty member marks a significant milestone in his career, following the successful defense of a dissertation that examined how natural disasters influence voting patterns across the United States. Shaw’s journey to academia began unexpectedly. He entered Saint Louis University as a pre‑med student in 2015, also studying German and International Studies. A challenging organic chemistry course prompted him to reconsider his path, leading him to switch majors and pursue political science—a field that was gaining prominence ahead of the 2016 election. He later added a master’s degree in political science and public affairs to his credentials. During his graduate studies, Shaw immersed himself in research on mass incarceration, penal policy, and later, voting behavior. He collaborated with faculty members such as Anita Manion and David Kimball on grant‑funded projects that investigated civic board demographics and the impact of vote centers on voter turnout. These experiences not only honed his analytical skills but also forged strong professional relationships that will support his new role.His dissertation, titled “From Disaster to Decision: Spatial and Temporal Patterns in Disaster‑Affected Voting, ” employed geospatial analysis tools like ArcGIS to map the effects of hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes on electoral outcomes. Shaw’s work revealed that voters in disaster‑hit areas sometimes shift party allegiance, suggesting that crisis situations can alter political engagement. He argues that understanding these shifts could inform strategies to enhance democratic participation and media literacy. Beyond research, Shaw values the mentorship he received from faculty who encouraged honest dialogue about academia and career planning. Their guidance helped him navigate the transition from student to scholar, giving him confidence in his chosen path. Now, as he prepares for his first semester at DePauw, Shaw plans to teach introductory American politics and a course on the legislative process. He also intends to build upon his doctoral research, aiming to contribute further insights into how external events shape voter behavior. Shaw’s story illustrates the fluid nature of academic careers and the importance of adaptability, mentorship, and a willingness to explore new research avenues. His move to DePauw signals the beginning of a promising chapter where he will shape future scholars while continuing his own intellectual pursuits.