"Doctor of Physical Therapy (Tenure-Track, Assistant/Associate Professor)"

Position Summary

The Department of Physical Therapy at Central Michigan University invites applications for a full-time, open-rank, tenure-track, 10-month faculty position in our entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy Program (DPT).

We are seeking exceptional educators and scholars who are committed to advancing the physical therapy profession through innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based practice. The CMU DPT program fosters a learner-centered environment that prioritizes student success, values diversity and belonging, and promotes interprofessional teamwork. The anticipated start date will be August 2026. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Competitive benefits package is available, and research start-up funds may be available, based on candidates scholarly agenda.

New faculty will join the program during an exciting period of growth, including recent investments in state-of-the-art instructional labs for musculoskeletal and neurological rehabilitation. Faculty research is supported by the Motion Analysis Center, equipped with a 12-camera Vicon motion capture system, AMTI force plates, EMG systems, diagnostic ultrasound, and virtual reality tools. Collaborative opportunities exist across disciplines within the university.

Responsibilities

• Teach doctoral-level physical therapy courses in area(s) of expertise;
• Contribute to the programs scholarly output through research and publication per CAPTE accrediting standards;
• Participate in service to the department, college, university, and profession, including advising and mentorship of DPT students in academic and research activities;
• Maintain excellence in teaching, research, and service as outlined in the CMU Faculty Agreement and Department of Physical Therapy Bylaws.

Required Qualifications

• Terminal academic doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, DSc, or equivalent); ABD may be considered, provided there is clear and documented evidence of substantial progress toward completion of the degree. First reappointment will be contingent upon degree completion.
• Eligible for Michigan Physical Therapist licensure at time of hire.
• Demonstrated or emerging potential for excellence in teaching and scholarship.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: Musculoskeletal Examination and Interventions; Neuromuscular Examination and Interventions; Motor Control; Biomechanics; Anatomy; Foundational Interventions. Other areas of expertise may be considered.
• Minimum of 3 years full-time clinical experience.
• Commitment to excellence in physical therapy education and scholarship.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in team settings.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists or other residency/fellowship training.
• Academic teaching experience.
• Record of scholarly productivity, including peer-reviewed publications.
• Active engagement in the physical therapy profession.
• Interest in community engagement through teaching, service, or scholarship.

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 CMUs mission, vision, and leadership standards.

You must submit an online application in order to be considered as an applicant for this position.

Cover letters may be addressed to the Hiring Committee.

About the Department

The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions consists of five academic units (Department of Physical Therapy, Department of Physical Education and Sport, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, the School of Health Sciences, and the School of Rehabilitation and Medical Science). It offers undergraduate and/or graduate degree programs in athletic training, audiology, communication sciences and disorders, exercise science, environmental health and safety, health administration, physical activity specialist, physical education, physical therapy, physician assistant, public health, school and public health education, speech-language pathology, and sport management, delivered by 100+ faculty/staff. For more information, please visit CMUs website, the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions website, and the Department of Physical Therapys website.