The Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences (APS) Department at the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is conducting a search for an academic year, non-tenure–track, instructor with a three-year renewable contract. We seek applications from candidates with a record of teaching excellence and a commitment to science education. Nominal teaching expectations are three courses per semester (six per academic year). Significant contributions to the departmental educational mission may be substituted for classroom teaching, and additional teaching assignments may be available for additional compensation. APS offers a wide range of classes in astronomy and planetary sciences, and opportunities exist for teaching at all levels, with an emphasis on introductory astronomy. As faculty in APS, instructors contribute to all departmental activities, and are expected to engage in departmental service. Instructors are permitted to supplement their base salary to a limited extent from external grants that they may be able to generate. The position requires a commitment to supporting the diverse student populations in our department. The APS department recognizes that the effectiveness and creativity of a group is strengthened by contributions from a broad range of perspectives. As such, we particularly welcome candidates from groups that are historically underrepresented in our field and/or have demonstrated leadership toward building an equitable and inclusive scholarly environment.
About the Department: The APS Department hosts one of the largest astronomy programs in the country, with over 250 undergraduates, roughly 50 graduate students, and over 25 faculty in a diverse range of astronomy disciplines. The department is housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, with a commitment to teaching and learning that emphasizes hands-on learning, exploration, and inquiry. The college is pursuing initiatives that transcend disciplinary boundaries, encourage teaching through research/creative work, and engage the world. Faculty in the APS department are actively working and publishing in the field of astronomy education research. The department participates in CU’s Center for STEM Learning and a discipline-based education research group, which spans many STEM departments. The University of Colorado has access to a number of facilities, which are used for both teaching and research. On campus, CU owns the Fiske Planetarium with the highest resolution digital dome theater on a university campus, and the Sommers-Bausch Observatory with a 0.6-meter and two 0.5-meter telescopes. Off campus, CU has access to the ARC 3.5-meter and ARCSAT 0.5-meter telescopes, the SDSS IV and V surveys, and the Las Cumbres Observatory. The headquarters of the National Solar Observatory is located on the Boulder campus.
Qualifications:
- Candidates must have a PhD in Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Astronomy, or a related field.
- Candidates should have 1 year experience teaching undergraduate astronomy; experience gained during PhD studies is acceptable. ABD candidates are welcome to apply, but PhD must be conferred by 07/31/2019.
Application Instructions: Application materials must be submitted electronically at https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/?jobId=16330 , Position # 00759575. Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a teaching and mentoring statement, and a statement of diversity and inclusion goals (www.colorado.edu/aps/instructor-application-guidance for guidance on these items.) Please also provide names and email addresses of three references who may be asked to upload their letters to the site. Applications submitted by March 27, 2019 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until filled. The University of Colorado is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.