The WVU Department of Physics invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Gravitational Wave Astrophysics. The position is open at the assistant or associate proffessor level and applicants will be evaluated according to the rank requested. The successful applicant should have a strong background in the application of algorithms for the detection of likely signatures of gravitational waves in pulsar timing signals. An earned Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related discipline is required. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work as part of a multidisciplinary team of faculty focused on radio astronomy-based detection of gravitational waves. Successful applicants will be expected to develop a vigorous research program extramurally funded from multiple federal agencies, build effective collaborations, and demonstrate commitment to teaching excellence.
West Virginia University (wvu.edu) is a comprehensive land grant research institution enrolling 30,000 students in 113 degrees programs, including engineering, law and health sciences. The Physics Department (physics.wvu.edu) has 17 tenure-track faculty members, 100 undergraduate students, and 70 graduate students. The department has close relationships with WVU Statler College of Engineering and with the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO). The NRAO’s Green Bank, West Virginia facility is located within a few hours drive of the WVU campus. The Department conducts approximately $5 million annually in externally sponsored research, with major research activities in the areas of astronomy/astrophysics, condensed matter physics, and plasma physics.
To apply for this position, interested candidates should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, research statement, statement of teaching philosophy, and contact information for at least three references (as a single PDF document) to AstroSearch@mail.wvu.edu. Applications will be processed until the position is filled but those received by October 15, 2012 will receive full consideration. For further information, contact Dr. Maura McLaughlin, search committee chair, at maura.mclaughlin@mail.wvu.edu.
West Virginia University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer dedicated to building a culturally diverse and pluralistic faculty and staff committed to teaching and working in a multicultural environment. West Virginia University is the Recipient of an NSF ADVANCE Award for Gender Equity. Applications are strongly encouraged from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and covered veterans. Dual-career couples are also encouraged to apply.
