Assistant Professor in Physics

The University of Texas at El Paso; El Paso (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Texas at El Paso invites applications for a tenure-track position in observational astronomy within the Department of Physics. The search emphasizes interstellar medium, dust evolution, and star and planet formation, with expectation to develop an independent program, mentor students, teach core physics and astronomy courses, and contribute to service and outreach.

Candidates must hold a PhD in physics, astronomy, or related field, demonstrate strong research and communication

Qualifications

• PhD in physics, astronomy, or a related field.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Potential for effective teaching of core physics/astronomy courses at undergrad and grad levels.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain an independent research program aligned with department strength.
• Involve undergraduate and graduate students in research activities.
• Teach core physics and astronomy courses at undergraduate and graduate levels; participate in service and outreach.

Skills

Strong verbal & written communication

Education

PhD in physics/astronomy/related field

Job description

Location: El Paso, TX Category: Science Job Type: Full-time Posted On: Thu Aug 13 2026

Job Description

The Department of Physics at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is seeking applications for a tenure track position in observational astronomy. The position is open to all areas of observational astronomy, with preference towards research in interstellar medium, dust evolution, and the star and planet formation process. The successful candidate should be able to establish and maintain an independent research program at UTEP that complements existing research in the Department, involve undergraduate and graduate students in research, teach core physics and astronomy courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, perform service to the Department, College, and University, and engage in outreach activities. The new hire will be a core faculty member of the Physics Graduate Program.

Job Requirements

Candidates must have a PhD in physics, astronomy, or a related field; a strong record of research accomplishments; strong verbal and written communication skills; and demonstrated or clear potential for effective teaching of core physics courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Candidates with postdoctoral experience will be given preference.

Additional Information

In keeping with its access, excellence, and impact mission, The University of Texas at El Paso is committed to an open, diverse, and inclusive learning and working environment that honors the talents, respects the differences, and nurtures the growth and development of all.

We seek to attract faculty and staff who share our commitment.

The University of Texas at El Paso is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or sexual orientation and gender in employment or the provision of services in accordance with state and federal law.

Discrimination on the basis of sex includes an employee's or prospective employee's right to be free from sexual harassment under Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972.

Inquiries-including the filing of a Formal Complaint or reporting an incident-about the application of Title IX may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, who can be reached by phone at [phone], by email at [e-mail], or by mail at 500 W. University Ave., El Paso, TX, Kelly Hall, Room 312.

For accommodation information for employees and applicants with disabilities, please contact UTEP's Equal Opportunity Office at [e-mail].

To the extent that this position involves research, work, or access to critical infrastructure as referenced in Executive Order GA-48, being hired for and continuing to be employed in this position requires the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure.