Assistant Professor of Physics

Colorado Mesa University; Grand Junction (CO); On-site; 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 full-time, tenure-track role begins Fall 2027 and carries a 12-credit hour teaching load per semester.

Applicants will establish an undergraduate research program, advise students, and participate in program assessment, curriculum development, and service to the university and profession. A PhD in physics is required by summer 2027 and excellence in teaching is expected.

Qualifications

• PhD in physics or closely related discipline by Summer 2027.
• Demonstrated teaching effectiveness and ability to create a positive learning environment.
• Ability to supervise undergraduate physics/astronomy research.
• Strong communication and collegial collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Teach physics courses and labs across introductory through upper-division levels.
• 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.

Skills

Teaching effectiveness

Undergraduate mentoring

Collaborative work

Education

PhD in physics or closely related discipline by Summer 2027

Job description

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-$68,000

Commensurate with education and experience. Excellent health and retirement benefits package:

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.

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, regarding medical documentation, functional limitations and the type of accommodation needed.