Visiting Assistant Professor Physics & Astronomy (Spring Semester - 2027)

Bucknell University; Lewisburg (Union County); On-site; USD 27,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition remission

Job summary

Bucknell University’s Department of Physics & Astronomy invites applicants for a Visiting Assistant Professor (one semester) starting January 2027 in Olin Science Building. The position carries a three-course teaching load for the spring semester.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. or be ABD by the start date. Bucknell values inclusive, student-centered pedagogy and a diverse campus community. Applications reviewed Sept 28, 2026, until filled.

Qualifications

• Three-course teaching load for spring semester.
• Commitment to inclusive student-oriented pedagogy.
• Experience or potential in undergraduate teaching.

Responsibilities

• Teach three courses for the spring semester (January 2027).
• Contribute to undergraduate education within the Physics & Astronomy department.

Education

Ph.D. or ABD in physics, astronomy, or related field

Job description

Position Title: Visiting Assistant Professor Physics & Astronomy (Spring Semester - 2027) Position Type: Full time Location: Olin Science Building Categories: Faculty Exempt

Job Summary:

Bucknell University’s Department of Physics & Astronomy invites interested candidates to apply for the position of Visiting Assistant Professor (one semester) beginning in January 2027. This position has a teaching load of three courses for the spring semester. We especially value a commitment to inclusive student-oriented pedagogy and attention to the experiences of students from marginalized groups. Candidates are expected to have a Ph.D. or be ABD in physics, astronomy, or a related field by the position's start date. The review of applications will begin on September 28, 2026, and continue until filled. Bucknell University is a private, highly selective, unique national University with complementary programs in the liberal arts and professional programs in engineering, business, education, and music. The Department of Physics & Astronomy is an entirely undergraduate department with 13 tenured and tenure track faculty and support provided by a lab coordinator, an administrative assistant, and two tech support staff. Typically, 8-12 physics majors graduate per year, and our introductory courses are taken by students majoring in all math and science disciplines, all the students in the College of Engineering, and students from all majors in a liberal arts environment. Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and we seek candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community. The University provides equal opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, marital status, veteran status or disability in admissions, employment and in all of its educational programs and activities. We encourage individuals from historically underrepresented groups to apply. This role is not budgeted for visa sponsorship, all candidates must be authorized to work in the US without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.

Benefits:

• Flexible scheduling options determined by role
• Medical, prescription drug, vision, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance options
• An outstanding 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan (no contribution requirement for non-exempt positions)
• Full-time and part-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for themselves.
• Additionally, full-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for their spouse/spousal equivalent and are eligible for various tuition programs for their children.
• Credit for full-time benefits eligible employment at other institutions of higher education will be applied to waiting periods.
• A comprehensive employee wellness program including program incentives
• A myriad of other benefits, including parental leave, an employee assistance program, fitness center membership, and the power of your Bucknell ID card

*Eligibility criteria and waiting periods may apply.

Inclusive Excellence:

Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community. We endeavor to enhance our capacity to value and capitalize on the cultural richness that diversity brings. We encourage all individuals to apply and do not discriminate in admissions, employment, educational programs and/or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, sex/gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, military or veteran status, or genetic information.

E-Verify

Bucknell University participates with the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) E-Verify program. We will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For additional information regarding Bucknell's E-Verify requirements, please contact the office of Talent, Culture & Human Resources [phone] or email [e-mail].

About Bucknell

Founded in 1846 and located along the banks of the Susquehanna River in historic Lewisburg, Pa., Bucknell University is an undergraduate-focused institution that stands uniquely at the intersection of top-ranked liberal arts, engineering and management programs. Our students choose from more than 60 majors and 70 minors in the arts, engineering, humanities, management, and natural and social sciences, as well as extensive global study, service-learning and research opportunities. Bucknell’s 3,700 undergraduate and 30 graduate students enjoy a low 9:1 student-faculty ratio and exceptional opportunities to collaborate with faculty mentors on scholarly and artistic projects. Bucknell’s beautiful 450-acre campus includes first-rate facilities and is home to more than 90 percent of its undergraduate students. Student life is vibrant with about 200 student-run organizations, 27 NCAA Division I athletics teams, a robust arts culture, and a commitment among many of the students to community and global service work. Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and we seek candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community. The University provides equal opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, marital status, veteran status or disability in admissions, employment and in all of its educational programs and activities. We encourage individuals from historically underrepresented groups to apply.

Community

Lewisburg (pop. 5,700) is located in central Pennsylvania and features beautiful Victorian homes, the restored art deco Campus Theatre (owned by the University), a variety of restaurants, shops and boutiques, and the Barnes & Noble at Bucknell University Bookstore. It is the seat of Union County, which has about 44,000 residents. The city of Williamsport is about a 30-minute drive from campus, and Penn State University’s main campus is about an hour away, as is Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s state capital. Bucknell is within a three-hour drive of New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The cost of living is low compared to that of major U.S. cities and suburbs. Bucknell’s surroundings yield fresh produce, cultural activities and events, and outstanding opportunities for outdoor activity on the Susquehanna River and in the nearby state parks and forests. The Lewisburg Area School District receives excellent reviews for its schools at all grade levels. Lewisburg Area High School consistently ranks among the top 50 high schools in Pennsylvania for SAT scores and statewide exams.