Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy at InsideHigherEd

Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy

202500106F

Assistant Professor

Exempt

Commensurate with education and experience.

Full-Time Tenure Track

College of Science & Engineering Technology

Dept of Physics & Astronomy

11/07/2025

https://shsu.peopleadmin.com/postings/44305

Dr. Joel W. Walker

Professor/Chair of Physics
Sam Houston State University
1908 Avenue J (Box 2267)
204 Farrington Building
Huntsville, Texas 77341-2267

936 294 1601

[email protected]

This is a nine-month position on the tenure track. Core duties involve instructing astronomy courses, supervising students, and conducting research in astronomy/astrophysics.

PhD with emphasis in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related field. ABD considered, must be completed by start of employment.

Classroom instructional experience and Post-Doctoral research experience are preferred. The candidate’s research program must include a direct observational component of some kind.

SHSU values excellence in teaching, research, and service. The selected candidate must be able to:Proficiently instruct introductory astronomy courses, while fostering an active learning environment and making good use of our new “engaging spaces” classroom. Promote development of the burgeoning Minor in Astronomy, and instruct more specialized courses at the upper division for these students. Lead student observing projects and support activities at the near-campus Dominey Observatory (this new facility houses a 27” CDK-700 telescope system from PlaneWave Instruments and is fully wheelchair accessible). Lead grant applications and future observing activities at the “Christmas Mountains” site near Big Bend (our system owns 10,000 acres of land in this dark-sky region, which is suitable for optical and also radio astronomy). Develop a strong research program with an observational component that is able to attract external funding and the allocation of time at major telescopes / observatories.

Direct inquiries and supplementary materials, including letters of recommendation, to Joel Walker.

Please note: References provided in the References section of the application will receive an automated email reference request at the time the application is submitted.

Yes

Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an “at will” employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code §51.215.

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