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Advancing the study of politics through innovative research and world-class teaching

Notre Dame is home to outstanding faculty members who tackle critical questions about politics from diverse intellectual and methodological perspectives. We combine award-winning research in all major fields of political science with excellent teaching and a strong commitment to undergraduate and graduate mentorship.  

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Outstanding faculty

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Major in Political Science

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Ph.D. in Political Science

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  1. International Business Times: Strait of Hormuz remains in ‘deadly stalemate’ as Iranian attacks continue six months into war

    September 06, 2026

    Eugene Gholz, an associate professor of political science at the University of Notre Dame and an expert on conflict in the strait, said the current standoff reflects a rough balance of power between the two sides, neither of which has been able to fully impose its will on the waterway.

    Mentions

    Eugene Gholz headshot. Headshot of a fair-skinned man with a salt and pepper goatee, wearing glasses, a lilac shirt, and a patterned purple tie with a gray suit jacket. He has short dark hair and is smiling at the camera. Framed artwork is visible in the background, out of focus.

    Eugene Gholz

    Political Science

  2. Iran’s Attacks Keep the Strait of Hormuz in a Lethal Stalemate

    September 06, 2026

    “The strait is neither fully closed nor fully opened,” said Eugene Gholz, an associate professor of political science at the University of Notre Dame and an expert on conflict in the waterway. “Iran can’t close it completely, and the U.S. can’t open it completely.”

    Mentions

    Eugene Gholz headshot. Headshot of a fair-skinned man with a salt and pepper goatee, wearing glasses, a lilac shirt, and a patterned purple tie with a gray suit jacket. He has short dark hair and is smiling at the camera. Framed artwork is visible in the background, out of focus.

    Eugene Gholz

    Political Science

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