Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in Astronomy

The Department of Physics at Central Michigan University invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor in astronomy. We are seeking an observational astronomer but will also consider other areas in astronomy and astrophysics that complement the research and educational mission of the department. The candidate is expected to have a strong interest in involving undergraduate and graduate students in research, and to develop an externally funded research program.

The teaching component involves undergraduate and graduate astronomy and physics courses, including lab-based astronomy courses utilizing our on-campus Brooks Astronomical Observatory, which features a 16-inch Cassegrain reflector as its principal telescope. Applicants should demonstrate their ability and interest in contributing to the operation of the CMU Brooks Observatory for education, student research, and outreach activities.

The new faculty member will be expected to develop an externally funded research program at CMU that will involve ground-based or space-based national observatories across the U.S. or abroad. Preference will be given to candidates who can engage in collaborative projects that provide unique opportunities for CMU students.

Required qualifications include a Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics or a closely related field, evidence of potential to develop an externally funded research program, and commitment to mentoring and teaching. Preferred qualifications include a strong publication record and post-doctoral research experience.

The Department of Physics at Central Michigan University has 10 tenured and 3 fixed-term faculty members and serves a diverse population and first-generation 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 $3.2 million in FY 2023. Current research areas encompass both theoretical and experimental work including nuclear physics, nuclear astrophysics, and condensed matter physics. Physics faculty routinely utilize research facilities such as the Advanced Photon Source at ANL, the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams at MSU, TRIUMF in Canada, RIKEN Nishina Center in Japan, and NERSC, and have leading roles in the International Research Network for Nuclear Astrophysics (IReNA), an NSF AccelNet program. 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.

Inquiries about this position should be directed by email to Juan Peralta ([email protected]) using the subject “AST search”. To apply, please visit the application website: https://www.jobs.cmich.edu/postings/39236.

Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled, but applications completed by January 2nd, 2024, will receive full consideration. Candidates are encouraged to include in their research and teaching plans a diversity, equity, and inclusion statement, and describe how they would engage students using the Brooks Astronomical Observatory.

Online Required Application Documents:

1. Cover letter.
2. Curriculum vitae including a full list of publications.
3. Research plan (2-3 pages).
4. Teaching and education plan (2-3 pages).
5. Names and contact information of at least three references.

CMU, an AA/EO institution, strongly and actively strives to increase diversity and provide equal opportunity within its community. CMU does not discriminate against persons based on age, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, race, religion, sex, sex‐based stereotypes, sexual orientation, transgender status, veteran status, or weight (see http://www.cmich.edu/ocrie).