"Assistant/Associate Professor of Physical Therapy"

Job Details

The Physical Therapy Program in the Department of Human Movement Science at Oakland University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor position beginning August 15, 2026.

We seek a dynamic educator–scholar committed to advancing physical therapy education, clinical practice, and translational research. The successful candidate will join a collaborative faculty within the School of Health Sciences and contribute to teaching in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum while developing a program of scholarship supported by strong clinical partnerships, research infrastructure, and mentorship opportunities.

School/College & Department/Program Summary

The School of Health Sciences serves approximately 2,000 undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and post-professional students through a model emphasizing community-engaged translational partnerships and the integration of theory with best practices. The School is organized into four thematic departments:

• Public and Environmental Wellness
• Interdisciplinary Health Sciences
• Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences
• Human Movement Science

The Department of Human Movement Science offers bachelor’s (BS), clinical professional (DPT), and post-professional degrees and certificates across exercise science (EXS), physical therapy (PT), and orthotics and prosthetics (O&P).

Faculty and students benefit from multiple teaching and research laboratories including:

• PT labs in Acute Care Simulation, Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, and Neurorehabilitation
• EXS labs in Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Ergonomics and Abilities Research, and Strength and Fitness
• Orthotics and Prosthetics Fabrication Lab

Oakland University supports faculty scholarship through internal funding, grant-writing support, and mentorship through the Office of Research. Additional School of Health Sciences opportunities include Seed and Sprout Grants and PT Faculty Research Grants.

The Physical Therapy Program maintains strong clinical partnerships, supports pro bono and community wellness initiatives, and includes faculty recognized nationally and internationally for their research and clinical expertise.

Oakland University’s platinum LEED-certified campus and extensive clinical and community partnerships provide a supportive environment for innovative teaching, meaningful service, and impactful research in support of health.

Applicants for appointment at the Assistant Professor rank must demonstrate:

• Current licensure as a Physical Therapist in the State of Michigan, or demonstrated eligibility followed by attainment of licensure within one year of hire.
• A CAPTE-recognized terminal academic degree (PhD, EdD, DSc, DHS, or equivalent). Applicants holding a DPT and ABD status may be considered with completion of the terminal degree required within a specified time frame.
• Minimum of three years of clinical experience in physical therapy practice.
• Teaching experience in an academic physical therapy program or demonstrated potential for effective teaching in professional PT education.
• Evidence of initiated scholarly activity or potential to develop a sustained research agenda.
• Commitment to collaboration, service, and advancing the mission of the Physical Therapy Program.

Applicants for appointment at the Associate Professor rank must demonstrate:

• Current licensure as a Physical Therapist in the State of Michigan, or demonstrated eligibility followed by attainment of licensure within one year of hire.
• A CAPTE-recognized terminal academic degree (PhD, EdD, DSc, DHS, or equivalent).
• Minimum of three years of clinical experience in physical therapy practice.
• An established record of teaching in an academic physical therapy program, including evidence of teaching effectiveness.
• A sustained record of scholarly activity, including peer-reviewed publications or externally disseminated scholarship.
• Evidence of professional service and engagement consistent with expectations for a mid-career faculty member.
• Commitment to collaboration and advancing the mission of the Physical Therapy Program.

Preference may be given to candidates who demonstrate one or more of the following:

• Board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) or eligibility for board certification.
• Completion of an accredited residency or fellowship in physical therapy or an equivalent university based graduate certificate.
• Expertise in physical therapy practice, movement science, or related foundational or clinical sciences that complement program needs (e.g., musculoskeletal rehabilitation, neurologic rehabilitation, acute care, biomechanics, clinical reasoning, or other areas relevant to DPT education).
• Experience with curriculum development or innovative teaching methods, including simulation-based education.
• A record of peer-reviewed publications, grant activity, or externally funded research.
• Experience mentoring doctoral students, residents, or fellows.
• Engagement in professional leadership within organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association.
• Commitment to community engagement, interprofessional collaboration, and inclusive excellence.