"Astronomy (Tenure-Track, Assistant Professor)"

Astronomy (Tenure-Track, Assistant Professor)

Posting Number: F-1016
College/Unit: College of Science and Engineering
Home Department: Department of Physics
Employee Group: Tenure-Track Faculty - Academic Year
Employment Status: Full-Time
Position Type: 9 month (Academic Year)
Position Classification: Tenure Track Faculty
Position Begin Date: 08/24/2025

Position Summary:

The Department of Physics at Central Michigan University invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position starting in Fall 2026. We are seeking an astronomer or astrophysicist with research focused on areas of theoretical, computational or observational astronomy that would complement the research and educational mission of the department.

The teaching component of the position involves undergraduate and graduate astronomy and physics courses. Lab components of the astronomy courses include the use of our on-campus Brooks Astronomical Observatory, which features a 16-inch Cassegrain reflector as its principal telescope. We are especially interested in applicants who can integrate computational methods and data analysis components into the physics and astronomy curriculum or can contribute to the operation of the CMU Brooks Observatory for education, student research, and outreach activities. The candidate is expected to involve undergraduate and graduate students in research.

The new faculty member will be expected to develop an externally funded research program at CMU that will involve the use of ground-based or space-based observatories, including opportunities associated with leveraging large datasets from comprehensive observational surveys, or whose computational or theoretical work applies to current topics in astronomy and astrophysics. Preference will be given to candidates who can engage in collaborative projects that provide attractive opportunities for CMU students.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field.
• Potential to develop an externally funded research program.
• Commitment to mentoring and teaching.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong publication record and postdoctoral research experience.
• Ability to integrate computational methods and data analysis into physics and astronomy curriculum.
• Ability to contribute to the operation of an astronomical observatory in support of education, research, and/or outreach activities.
• Experience engaging in collaborative projects.

Message to Applicants:

Central Michigan University is dedicated to fostering an environment that is reflective of the communities we serve. We are especially interested in highly qualified candidates who will advance and promote CMU’s mission, vision, and leadership standards.

You must submit an online application in order to be considered as an applicant for this position. Apply by February 6, 2026, to ensure full consideration for this position. Please submit a cover letter, a CV, a statement of research, a statement detailing your approach to teaching, and the contact information for three persons that can provide reference letters. Cover letters may be addressed to the Hiring Committee.

About the Department:

The Physics Department at Central Michigan University has ten tenured and three fixed-term faculty members and serves a diverse population including many first-generation university students. The Department offers undergraduate degrees in Astronomy & Astrophysics and in Physics, as well as M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Physics. Faculty in the department have strong research programs, having secured external funding of more than $5.1 million in Fiscal Year 2025. Current areas of research in astronomy include stellar outflows, variability, and magnetism (especially in the context of high-mass stars). Other areas of research include theoretical and experimental nuclear physics and astrophysics, and computational and experimental research in condensed matter physics. Physics faculty routinely utilize major research facilities such as the Advanced Photon Source at ANL, the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams at MSU, RIKEN Nishina Center in Japan, and NERSC. In addition to its strong commitment to research and teaching, the Department of Physics fosters an environment with equitable access and participation for all individuals, which is essential to the quality of our academic activities.

For more information, please visit our department website.

Posting Begins: 12/18/2025
Open Until Filled: Yes