Senior Lecturer

Vanderbilt University’s Department of Physics & Astronomy is inviting applications for a full-time Senior Lecturer position to join a productive and collegial department within a vibrant liberal arts college at a highly-ranked R1-research university starting August 2024.  We are seeking a dedicated, student-focused educator who is well-versed in recent advancements in astronomy and physics education to teach Introductory Astronomy and calculus-based Introductory Physics courses as well as other courses for the Department.

The Department has already instituted significant reforms in these introductory courses – in accord with best practices from physics and astronomy education research – and is seeking an individual willing to build on this foundation and take a leadership role in making the introductory courses effective and equitable for students. Vanderbilt University has a strong institutional commitment to fostering excellence through an academically and culturally diverse community of scholars.  For example, the Fisk-Vanderbilt Masters-to-PhD program was founded in the Physics & Astronomy department and has become a national model for the recruitment, retention, and training of talented underrepresented minority scholars in physics and astronomy.  

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in astrophysics or physics, awarded no later than August 1, 2024, and have a demonstrated commitment to effective teaching of diverse undergraduates.  Experience in astronomy/physics education research is preferred; familiarity with this research is required. The Senior Lecturer appointment will be non-tenure track, with an initial appointment for one year, renewable to a three-year term subject to satisfactory performance.  The teaching load is 3 course per semester.

Applications must include:

1. Full curriculum vitae

2. A statement of teaching philosophy and interests specific to our program. Candidates may discuss equity, diversity, and inclusion in their teaching statement, as applicable.

3. Teaching evaluation data (1-2 years) and any other evidence of teaching effectiveness

4. Applicants should arrange for three letters of recommendation to also be uploaded via the application link below.

These materials should be submitted directly to https://apply.interfolio.com/138255.

Review of applications will begin February 15, 2024, and will continue until the position is filled.  For questions regarding this posting please email:  [email protected]

Vanderbilt University is a private research university ranked in the top 20 nationally; its 330-acre park-like campus is located on the western edge of downtown Nashville, TN, known colloquially as Music City and consistently rated as one of the best cities in the US in which to live and work.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are.  We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.

Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.