Assistant / Associate Professor of Astronomy

Eastern University's College of Education; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Eastern University seeks a full-time, tenure-track astronomy professor who will also serve as Director of the Bradstreet Observatory and Julia Fowler Planetarium. This role combines undergraduate teaching, active research, facility administration, public outreach, and the integration of the Christian faith into higher education.

The position requires a Ph.D. in Astronomy/Astrophysics and a demonstrated commitment to teaching undergraduates, including non-science majors, with active research

Qualifications

• Experience teaching undergraduates, including non-science majors.
• Active research program with undergraduate involvement.
• Commitment to integrating faith with teaching and scholarship.

Responsibilities

• Teach introductory astronomy courses and labs; potentially teach math/physics/CS as needed.
• Direct Observatory and Planetarium programming and field trips.
• Supervise Observatory/Planetarium staff and coordinator.
• Maintain an active undergraduate astronomy/astrophysics research program.

Skills

Teaching undergraduate courses

Program leadership

Research mentorship

Public outreach

Christian integration

Education

PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics

Job description

Eastern University seeks a full-time, tenure-track astronomy professor who will also serve as Director of the Bradstreet Observatory and Julia Fowler Planetarium. This unique role combines undergraduate teaching, active research, facility administration, public outreach, and the integration of the Christian faith into higher education.

• Teaching: Instruct introductory astronomy courses and labs (e.g., The Solar System, Exploration of the Universe) and an Honors Cosmology course. Must also be willing to teach math, physics, or computer science based on departmental needs.
• Facility Leadership: Direct academic and public programming for the Observatory and Planetarium. Coordinate field trips, public outreach, and astrophotography.
• Administration: Supervise the Observatory/Planetarium Administrator and the Researcher/Coordinator.
• Undergraduate Research: Maintain an active research program in astronomy/astrophysics that provides hands-on mentorship and research opportunities for undergraduate students.
• Christian Mission: Integrate a Christian worldview into teaching, mentoring, and scholarship, adhering to the University’s Doctrinal Statement.

1. Required Qualifications
   • Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related field.
   • Demonstrated effectiveness in teaching undergraduate students (including non-science majors).
   • An active research program with the potential to involve undergraduates.
   • Commitment to Eastern University’s Christian values and the ability to integrate faith into teaching.
   • Willingness/ability to teach interdisciplinary courses (math, physics, CS) as needed.

1. Preferred Qualifications
   • Experience in observational astronomy, astrophotography, or astronomical instrumentation.
   • Background in Observatory administration or Planetarium programming/education.
   • Experience with public outreach, astronomical data analysis, and computational methods.

1. Application Materials Required
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter.
   • Statement of Teaching Philosophy.
   • Research Statement (must include plans for undergraduate participation).
   • Statement describing the integration of Christian faith and academic discipline.
   • Names and contact information for professional references.