Instructor | Physics & Astronomy

The University of Kansas; Lawrence (KS); On-site; USD 55,000 - 69,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Kansas Department of Physics & Astronomy is seeking instructors to teach undergraduate and graduate physics courses. This adjunct, term appointment runs for Spring 2027 with renewal based on need and funding.

Responsibilities include developing materials, syllabi, lectures, grading, advising students, and maintaining office hours. The position requires appropriate degrees and experience, with collaboration and policy adherence expected.

Qualifications

• For Undergraduate-Level Courses: MA/MS or BA/BS with 5 years experience.
• For Graduate-Level Courses: Terminal degree or Master’s with 7 years experience.
• Formal degree in the cited discipline is required to ensure advanced knowledge.
• University standards align with industry practices and partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Teach introductory Physics courses at undergraduate or graduate level.
• Develop course materials, syllabi, lectures, and assignments.
• Grade student work and advise students with office hours.
• Collaborate with colleagues and follow departmental, school and university policies.

Skills

Teaching physics

Curriculum design

Syllabi development

Student advising

Education

MA/MS in discipline or relevant field

BA/BS in discipline with 5 years of relevant experience

Terminal degree in discipline

Master's degree with 7 years of relevant experience

Job description

Position OverviewThe Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Kansas is a bridge to understanding the world, educating future physicists and astronomers, unearthing new scientific discoveries, and challenging the perception of the Universe. Through the commitment that faculty, students, and staff have to transformational education and interdisciplinary research, 'Understanding the Universe Starts Here'.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is currently hiring instructors to teach courses at the undergraduate or graduate level. The Instructor is an instructional, adjunct faculty position that is not eligible for tenure or promotion in rank. This is a term appointment for the Spring 2027 semester. Renewal will be based upon unit needs and funding as well as performance that meets expectations, not to exceed two continuous semesters.

This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement between The University of Kansas and United Academics, United Academics of KU, AAUP, or AFT. UAKU is the exclusive representative. As the State of Kansas is a right to work state, you have the right to be a member or not be a member of a union without fear of personal or professional repercussions.

Due to complex state employment laws, the University of Kansas may be unable to hire fully remote workers for this position outside of Kansas. Specifically, we cannot currently offer employment to candidates residing in the following states: California, Idaho, Minnesota, and Delaware. We appreciate your understanding and invite interested individuals from eligible states to apply.

Job Description

100% Instructional Duties | Teaching introductory Physics courses:

• As an instructor for the university, primary duties and responsibilities include: teaching in a specific field, developing course materials, developing and managing syllabi, creating lectures and assignments, grading student work, advising students and holding office hours.
• All instructors are expected to collaborate with colleagues, be current in the field, and are required to adhere to departmental, school/college and university policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications

For Instruction of Undergraduate-Level Courses:

1. MA/MS in discipline or relevant field OR BA/BS in discipline & 5 years of relevant experience

For Instruction of Graduate-Level Courses:

1. Terminal degree in discipline OR Master's and 7 years of relevant experience.
2. Record of research, scholarship or achievement in discipline.

This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have advanced knowledge, analytical skills and professional competencies necessary to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is commonly recognized as the standard qualification for similar roles in the public and private sector, ensuring that the university remains competitive with industry aligned practices, enhances collaboration with external partners, and supports the delivery of services and programs that meet professional and market-driven expectations

Preferred Qualifications

Evidence or testimony regarding excellent teaching ability at the university level.

Additional Candidate Instructions

• Online application
• Curriculum Vitae/Resume
• Cover Letter
• Names and contact information for three (3) references

Deadline/Review Date: Ongoing

Estimated State Date: Ongoing

Contact Information to Applicants

Ms. Kristin Rennells

[e-mail]

Advertised Salary Range Commensurate with education and experience

Application Review Begins Monday November 16, 2026

Anticipated Start Date Friday January 1, 2027

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