Assistant Professor in 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. We seek an observational astronomer with a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching, research, and outreach.  Duties would include teaching undergraduate astronomy and physics courses; maintaining an externally funded research program, involving undergraduate students; and appropriate service, including participation in outreach and recruiting events.  Missouri State University maintains Baker Observatory which has 16 and 20 inch optical telescopes for research and/or student training. It is expected that the successful candidate would make use of Baker Observatory. The anticipated starting date is mid-August 2023.

Applications must be submitted on-line at jobs.missouristate.edu  Review of applications will begin January 15, 2023 and continue until a suitable candidate is found. A complete application must include: cover letter outlining qualifications for the position, curriculum vitae, contact information for 3 references, a teaching statement which must include a statement describing efforts (past, present, or future) to encourage diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and a research plan which should include a description of proposed research which includes a paragraph specifically stating how the candidate would make use of Baker Observatory (for research and/or student training and/or outreach) and potential funding sources. Direct questions to [email protected]

Missouri State University is a metropolitan university in Springfield, Missouri serving a unique combination of urban and rural environments with a statewide mission in public affairs. The department offers a B.S. degree in physics with options in: astronomy and astrophysics; career prep and teaching prep physics; and materials physics. We also offer M.Sc. degrees in Materials Science and Natural and Applied Science, which could include an astrophysics option. Employment will require a criminal background check at university expense. Missouri State University is an EO employer