Lecturer - Physics

Boise State University; Boise, Northern (ID, KY); Hybrid; USD 56,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

Boise State University is seeking a full-time Lecturer in the Department of Physics and Astronomy to focus primarily on introductory physics instruction. The position involves teaching lecture and laboratory courses, creating active-learning classrooms, mentoring students, and collaborating with faculty to strengthen curriculum and instructional practices.

The department emphasizes student-centered STEM education and offers a BS in Physics with several emphases.

Qualifications

• Expert-level teaching experience in introductory physics.
• Strong planning, organization, and attention to detail.
• Proven ability to teach using evidence-based instruction.
• Ability to engage proactively with students and foster a supportive learning environment.
• Collaborative skills for team-based faculty initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Teach multiple introductory physics lecture and lab courses.
• Provide high-quality delivery of curriculum using active-learning approaches.
• Lead active-learning environments and maintain office hours for student support.
• Maintain grading rubrics and course sites with timely feedback.
• Collaborate with Center for Teaching and Learning to refine pedagogy and curriculum.
• Contribute to departmental service and potential curriculum development.

Skills

Intro physics teaching

Pedagogy & evidence-based

Student mentoring

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

M.S. in Physics

B.S. in Physics

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Suite

Job description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Boise State University invites applications for a full-time Lecturer position focused primarily on introductory physics instruction. The successful candidate will teach lecture and laboratory courses, create active and supportive learning environments, mentor students, and collaborate with faculty to strengthen curriculum and instructional practices. The position also contributes to departmental service and may support curriculum development, laboratory materials, and the mentoring of newer instructors.

Department overview:

The Department of Physics at Boise State University is dedicated to delivering dynamic, student-centered STEM education in the heart of the Treasure Valley. The department offers a Bachelor of Science in Physics with specialized emphases in Applied Physics, Astrophysics, Biophysics, and Secondary Education, alongside participation in interdisciplinary graduate programs.

We prioritize active, evidence-based teaching practices that engage a diverse student body and foster strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Backed by dedicated campus resources like Boise State's Center for Teaching and Learning, our faculty work collaboratively to maintain high instructional standards, advance pedagogical innovation, and support student success in every classroom.

Please note: this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

About Boise State:

Boise State University is a powerhouse of creativity, research, and impact. Our campus sits along the Boise River and reaches into the heart of Idaho's capital - a vibrant hub for innovation, culture, and outdoor adventure. We're nationally recognized for trailblazing research, student success, and community impact.

Our faculty are scholars, mentors, and changemakers who advance ideas, discoveries, and the next generation of leaders. Boise offers the perfect backdrop - a welcoming city with a thriving arts scene, growing tech sector, and mountains on the horizon. Join us and help shape a bold, collaborative academic community.

Learn more about faculty careers at Boise State and the City of Boise.

Essential Functions:

80% of Time the Physics Lecturer 1 must:

• Teach multiple introductory physics lecture and lab courses.

• Provide expert, reliable, high-quality delivery of curriculum using evidence-based, active-learning instructional techniques.

• Lead active-learning environments and maintain regular office hours to mentor and support a wide range of students.

• Accommodate a variable teaching schedule according to department needs..

• Promptly grade all course materials, establish clear grading rubrics, and maintain course sites for grade posting.

• Continuously refine pedagogy based on student feedback and collaborate with campus resources like the Center for Teaching and Learning.

Additional Job Duties (20%): This position requires taking on tasks and departmental service projects, which may include additional teaching, assisting with course writing/curriculum editing, writing and editing lab manuals, serving on departmental committees, and providing assistance or guidance to inexperienced instructors.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Expert-level teaching experience and working knowledge of introductory and upper-level undergraduate physics.

• Strong planning, organization, and attention to detail.

• Demonstrated effective, highly rated teaching skills in evidence-based instruction.

• Ability to engage proactively with students, handle student issues, and foster a supportive learning environment.

• Strong collaborative skills to work effectively on team-based faculty initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications:

• M.S. degree in Physics or a related discipline, B.S. degree in Physics.

• Extensive experience teaching large introductory physics lecture courses at a college or university.

• Extensive experience teaching introductory physics laboratories at a college or university.

• Demonstrated record of strong student course evaluations and excellent physics teaching skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills with students and flexibility in work hours.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Training in evidence-based teaching pedagogies and classroom instructional techniques.

• Computer programming, electronics knowledge, and proficiency in Microsoft Office or Google Suite.

Required Application Materials:

• Cover letter

• Resume or CV

• Teaching philosophy statement

• Contact information for three professional references

Closing Date:

The position will close to new applicants on Friday, September 18, 2026.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary ranges from $56,112 to 61,477

Our standard faculty contract is a 9-month contract with pay and benefits spread over 12 months. This is a yearly, renewable contract.

Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package, including (but not limited to):

• 10.76% University contribution to your ORP retirement fund

• Excellent medical, dental, and other health-related insurance coverages

• Tuition fee waiver benefits for employees, spouses, and their dependents

• See our full benefits page for more information