Instructor | Physics & Astronomy

University of Kansas; Pennsylvania; Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 54,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Kansas, Department of Physics & Astronomy, is recruiting an instructional adjunct to teach undergraduate and graduate physics courses. This 100% instructional role for the Spring 2027 semester is a term appointment, with renewal based on needs and funding.

The position requires teaching responsibilities, course development, student advising, and adherence to university policies. The role offers a hybrid work location and is non-tenure track.

Qualifications

• MA/MS in discipline or BA/BS in discipline & 5 years of relevant experience.
• Terminal degree in discipline or Master’s and 7 years of relevant experience.
• Record of research, scholarship or achievement in discipline.
• Formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure advanced knowledge and competencies.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate or graduate physics courses.
• Develop course materials, syllabi, lectures and assignments.
• Grade student work and advise students with office hours.
• Collaborate with colleagues and follow department policies and procedures.

Skills

Excellent teaching ability

Teaching

Education

MA/MS in discipline

BA/BS in discipline + 5 years experience

Terminal degree in discipline

Record of research/scholarship

Job description

Position Overview

The 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:

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

For Instruction of Graduate-Level Courses:

• Terminal degree in discipline OR Master’s and 7 years of relevant experience.
• 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.

Contact Information to Applicants

Ms. Kristin Rennells

[e-mail]

Deadline/Review Date: Ongoing

Estimated State Date: Ongoing

Application Review Begins

16-Nov-2026

Anticipated Start Date

01-Jan-2027

Position Number

00003032

Primary Campus

University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

FTE

Varies

Reg/Temp

Temporary

Advertised Salary Range

Commensurate with education and experience

Employee Class

F-Faculty

Work Location Assignment

Hybrid

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, [e-mail], Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY.