Assistant Professor of Astronomy

The Department of Astronomy in the College of Arts and Sciences at New Mexico State University (NMSU) invites applications for an assistant professor tenure-track faculty position. We seek qualified candidates in observational and/or computational stellar astrophysics, stellar populations, and the structure, dynamics, and formation history of the Milky Way  and Local Volume galaxies. Individuals who demonstrate the potential to leverage NMSU’s facilities and science output at Apache Point Observatory will be strongly considered. Applicants with experience and interest in astronomical instrumentation are also invited to apply, as there is a possibility of an interdisciplinary appointment in the photonics group within the College of Engineering. This position will have a start date of August 2025.

Minimum qualifications are a Ph.D. in physics or astronomy, and evidence of professional achievement such as research publications,  grants, or similar, commensurate with experience. Desired Qualifications include (1) potential for establishing sustained external funding in a research area mentioned above, (2) commitment to teach and mentor students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels using evidence-based pedagogical methods, (3) experience in leading and participating in collaborative research areas, and (4) commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive working, learning, and academic environment. 

The NMSU Astronomy Department currently comprises ten faculty, several research faculty and postdocs, and about 30 graduate students, who are involved in a wide range of astronomical research. Additional Department information, including details about our membership in the Astrophysical Research Consortium and its Apache Point Observatory 3.5-meter telescope, the SONG project 1-m telescope, and the SDSS 2.5-m telescope can be found at astro.nmsu.edu. NMSU is a Hispanic Serving Institution located in Las Cruces, the second largest city in New Mexico (population 111,000) that serves a diverse undergraduate and graduate population of 15,000 students.