Assistant Professor, Astrophysics

The Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Materials Science at Missouri State University seeks applications for a tenure-track position in astrophysics at the Assistant Professor level. A Ph.D. in astrophysics, or a closely related field, is required. The department seeks an astronomer/astrophysicist with a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching and research. Duties would include teaching undergraduate and graduate astronomy and undergraduate physics courses; maintaining an externally funded research program, involving undergraduate and potentially Masters-level graduate students; and appropriate service, which can include public outreach events at Baker Observatory. Missouri State University maintains Baker Observatory, which has a 14-inch, 16-inch, and 20-inch optical telescopes that are used for research and/or student training. It is expected that the successful candidate will have research interests that align with use of “big astronomical data” such as that produced by Gaia, TESS, the Rubin Observatory, etc.

The review of applications will begin October 13, 2025 and continue until a suitable candidate is found. Candidates should submit a letter of application, CV, research and teaching statements, and contact information for at least three references.  Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense and the anticipated start date of the position is August 10, 2026. 

Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Institution.

For more information about the position, please visit: https://jobs.missouristate.edu/postings/83233