Assistant Professor of Physics, Physics and Engineering Department

Washington-and-Lee-Universit; Lexington (VA); On-site; USD 94,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Physics beginning July 2027. The successful candidate will teach across the physics curriculum, including first-year courses and labs, upper-division courses, and elective topics, while guiding undergraduate research endeavors.

Startup funds, laboratory space, and summer research support are available to foster a productive program and student mentorship within a liberal arts environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in physics or related field by time of appointment
• Undergraduate teaching experience highly desirable
• Ability to mentor undergraduate research

Responsibilities

• Teach across the physics curriculum, including introductory courses and labs
• Mentor undergraduate research and student projects
• Contribute to department service and curriculum development

Job description

Washington and Lee University: Physics and Engineering Department

Location

Lexington, VA

Open Date

Aug 25, 2026

Description

The Department of Physics and Engineering at Washington and Lee University invites applications for a tenure-track position in physics at the rank of Assistant Professor. This new position will begin in July 2027. Candidates should be excited to teach across the physics curriculum, including first-year introductory courses, required upper division physics courses and labs, and topical electives within their area of expertise. Candidates should be prepared to mentor undergraduates in a productive research program; the specific physics-related area of research is open. Startup funds, laboratory space, and summer research support are available.

To achieve our mission as a liberal arts university, we strive to foster a welcoming campus community that recognizes the value of all persons. Our department is committed to preparing our students for engaged citizenship by creating a positive learning and working environment for all through open and substantive dialogue. We welcome applications from candidates that would contribute to the University’s mission and strategic plan.

Washington and Lee University offers a generous and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well‑being of employees and their families, as well as substantial support for faculty development through research funding, a strong culture of mentorship, and a pre‑tenure leave program. To learn more about working at W&L, employee benefits, and life in the Shenandoah Valley, visit jobs.wlu.edu .

The expected salary for this position is between $94,000 and $105,000 per year. Offers are based on factors such as relevant education, experience, tenure status, internal equity, and market and organizational considerations.

Qualifications

A Ph.D. in physics or a related field is required by the time of appointment. Undergraduate teaching experience is highly desirable.

• A letter of application outlining current and future scholarship, summarizing teaching interests and experience, and demonstrating the ability to work with students with a broad range of backgrounds and experiences
• Current CV
• Brief statement of teaching philosophy
• Brief description of research plans, including how undergraduates will be involved
• Three confidential letters of recommendation

Application Process

This institution is using Interfolio's Faculty Search to conduct this search. Applicants to this position receive a free Dossier account and can send all application materials, including confidential letters of recommendation, free of charge.

Washington and Lee is an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking candidates committed to high standards of scholarship, performance, professionalism, and to a welcoming campus community. Job description requirements are representative, but not all-inclusive of the knowledge, skill, and abilities needed to successfully perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.