Assistant Professor of Physics

Colorado Mesa; Grand Junction (CO); Hybrid; USD 63,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado Mesa University invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Physics in the Physics Program. This tenure-track role begins Fall 2027 with a 12-credit teaching load per semester and an emphasis on scholarly activity, advising, and service to the department and university.

The successful candidate will teach courses across levels, advise undergraduate researchers, and contribute to program assessment while building a sustainable research program for undergraduates.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in physics or closely related discipline by summer 2027.
• Proven effectiveness in teaching and creating a positive learning environment.
• Enthusiasm for working with and mentoring undergraduate students.

Responsibilities

• Teach physics courses and labs across introductory to upper-division levels.
• Establish a research program involving undergraduate physics majors.
• Advise and mentor undergraduate students.

Skills

Teaching

Undergraduate mentoring

Curriculum development

Collaboration

Education

PhD in Physics

Tools

Laboratory instruction

Job description

## Assistant Professor of PhysicsApply: CMU Main Campus, Grand Junction, CO: Full time: Posted 2 Days Ago: End Date: December 15, 2026 (30+ days left to apply): JR100727# **ANNOUNCMENT OF POSITION VACANCY****ABOUT THIS POSITION****Summary:**Colorado Mesa University invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Physics in the Physics Program. This is a full-time, tenure-track position starting the Fall 2027 semester. The standard teaching load is 12 credit hours per semester. Scholarship in the discipline, involvement with advising, and service to the university, department, and profession are expected.**ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES** include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.* Teach physics courses and labs across introductory through upper-division levels for liberal arts and science majors.* Establish a research program in area of expertise with meaningful opportunities for undergraduate physics majors.* Advise and mentor undergraduate students.* Participate in the ongoing assessment and improvement of the physics program and curriculum.* Engage in service to the university, department, and profession.**Salary:**$63,000-$68,000Commensurate with education and experience. Excellent health and retirement benefits package: Click here for more information!**Minimum Qualifications Required:*** Ph.D. in physics or a closely related discipline by summer 2027.* Effectiveness in teaching and creating a positive learning environment.* Enthusiasm for working with and inspiring undergraduate students.* Ability and enthusiasm for supervising undergraduate physics and/or astronomy research.* Ability to communicate and work collaboratively and collegially with colleagues.**Preferred Qualifications:*** Enthusiasm for teaching all introductory physics and astronomy classes.* Enthusiasm for teaching Electronics for Scientists, Intermediate Laboratory, and/or Advanced Laboratory.* Enthusiasm for teaching current upper-division courses and/or developing new courses related to the candidate’s area of expertise.* Research interests that diversify the research of current CMU physics faculty.* Postdoctoral teaching and/or research experience. **How to Apply:** Applicants will be asked to complete an online application by creating a profile and then providing personal and demographic information. In addition, please be prepared to upload a: * Cover letter* CV* Statement of teaching interests; listing previous teaching experience and courses, examples of classroom techniques, future approaches for effective teaching, and teaching interests including physics courses offered at CMU.* Statement of research interests; listing research interests and experience, potential projects that involve undergraduates, and approximate budget.* Copy of transcripts for all degrees completed. If your transcripts include a social security number or birthdate, please redact that information before uploading the document. Official transcripts will be required upon hire.* Names and contact information for three references. **Application Deadline:** The search closes December 14, 2026. To ensure consideration, complete applications must be received by December 13, 2026, at 11:59 PM Mountain Standard Time. **Direct Inquiries Contact:** Brian Hosterman, [e-mail]*Colorado Mesa University is particularly interested in candidates who have experience working with students from diverse backgrounds and who have a demonstrated commitment to improving the levels of access and success for underrepresented students within higher education. Colorado Mesa University is committed to providing a safe and productive learning and living community. To achieve that goal, we conduct background investigations for all final applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial and/or motor vehicle history. Applicant must be able to verify U.S. employment eligibility. Colorado Mesa University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a culturally diverse faculty, staff and student body. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact the CMU Human Resources Office by phone or email. You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and the type of accommodation needed.*