Jonathan Hartlyn

Jonathan Hartlyn is the Kenneth J. Reckford Professor of Political Science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, part of the College of Arts & Sciences. His expertise lies in comparative politics, particularly Latin America, focusing on democratization, political institutions, and state-society relations. He holds a B.A. from Clark University and M.Phil./Ph.D. from Yale University.

Education:

• B.A., Clark University
• M.Phil. and Ph.D., Political Science, Yale University

Research interests include:

• Latin American democratization processes
• Political institutions and governance
• Electoral systems and party politics
• Socio-political dynamics in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Peru

His recent work explores executive approval dynamics, political parties in Latin America, and constitutionalism. He co-edited a major 2022 volume analyzing Latin America’s socio-political matrix. His articles appear in journals like Comparative Political Studies, Journal of Democracy, and Latin American Research Review.

Awards:

• Johnston Award for Teaching Excellence (UNC, 2010)
• Robson Award for Excellence in Graduate Instruction (2022)

He advised 22 PhD students and oversaw 32 MA theses. Administrative roles include Senior Associate Dean for Social Sciences (2009–2017), Department Chair, and Director of the Institute for the Study of the Americas. He contributed to major professional associations like the American Political Science Association and Latin American Studies Association.