Teaching Professor in Astronomy and Astrophysics

Penn State University; University Park (AL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University seeks a full-time Teaching Professor in Astronomy and Astrophysics, starting Fall 2025. Responsibilities include teaching, advising students, and course development. The role offers competitive salary and benefits, including a tuition discount.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Retirement Plans

75% Tuition Discount

Qualifications

• Strong teaching experience preferred.
• Experience with planetarium presentations valued.

Responsibilities

• Teach up to 3 courses per semester.
• Advise undergraduates and develop courses.

Skills

Teaching Experience

Astronomy Education Research

Education

Ph.D. in Astronomy or Physics

Job description

Teaching Professor in Astronomy and Astrophysics

Apply locations: Penn State University Park | Time type: Full time | Posted on: Posted 4 Days Ago | Job requisition id: REQ_0000067444

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student): Please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) seeking employment: Please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.

• For external applicants: Click “Apply” and complete the application process.

This is a term position; the length will be discussed during the interview. Continuation depends on university need, performance, and funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Penn State invites applications for a full-time Teaching Professor (non-tenure track) starting Fall 2025. Salary and benefits are competitive and based on qualifications and experience.

Responsibilities include teaching up to 3 courses per semester, advising undergraduates, and developing courses in classroom and online formats. The department plans to develop a Planetary Sciences Option and possibly a major, with the successful candidate leading these efforts. Additional service roles may include committee work, outreach, and course development, with compensation for extra service.

Preferred qualifications include a Ph.D. in Astronomy or Physics, or a related field with strong teaching experience. Experience with teaching teachers, astronomy education research, planetarium presentations, or volunteer training is also valued.

Applications should include a cover letter, CV, statements of teaching and research interests, publication list, and three reference letters sent to [e-mail]. Review begins immediately and continues until filled.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment requires successful background checks per university policies.

BENEFITS

Full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

More information is available on the Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

The university publishes an annual security report, available here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer. For accommodations due to disability, contact 814-865-1473.

We are committed to equity, respect, and belonging, fostering an inclusive community that supports all members.