Assistant Professor of Instruction – Director of Teaching Laboratories

The Department of Physics & Astronomy at Northwestern University is searching for an Assistant Professor of Instruction.  The available position is a full-time, benefits eligible, multi-year, non-tenure eligible faculty appointment to begin on September 1, 2021.

Candidates with clear evidence of excellence in teaching and pedagogy will be considered for the position.  In addition, the Department is interested in candidates capable of directing all aspects of the day-to-day operations of the undergraduate physics laboratories, supervising and mentoring teaching assistants, developing and maintaining demonstration equipment used in introductory physics classes, and demonstrating excellence in teaching introductory physics courses. A standard teaching assignment is six one-quarter courses per academic year.  A faculty member who serves as Director of Undergraduate Laboratories, however, carries a teaching load of two one-quarter courses per academic year.

Minimum qualifications include a Ph.D. in Physics, in Physics Education, or in a related field, which must have been conferred by September 1, 2021. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated excellence, breadth, and innovation in teaching.  Preference will be given to candidates who have an understanding of modern pedagogical methods and of research in the teaching and learning of physics.  Experience working with diverse student populations is also important.

Applicants should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, teaching portfolio (including a teaching statement, course syllabi, and student evaluations), and three letters of recommendation which must address teaching. Applications should be submitted online through the department website at: http://www.physics.northwestern.edu. Letters of recommendation can be submitted online or sent directly to the attention of Catherine Cotter, Assistant Chair, at [email protected]. General questions may be addressed to Catherine Cotter at the same address.  Review of applications will begin on December 31, 2020. 

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and supportive community for everyone, including people from marginalized groups. We recognize that true excellence only comes from the meaningful integration of all perspectives in our community and culture.

Northwestern University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and does not discriminate against qualified individuals on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected class. Individuals from all diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.