Central Michigan University
Astronomy (Tenure-Track, Assistant Professor)
Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Michigan, us, 48804
Position Overview
The Department of Physics at Central Michigan University invites applications for a tenure‑track assistant professor position starting in Fall 2026. We are seeking an astronomer or astrophysicist with research focused on theoretical, computational, or observational astronomy that complements the research and educational mission of the department.
Teaching Responsibilities The teaching component involves undergraduate and graduate astronomy and physics courses. Lab components of the astronomy courses include the use of our on‑campus Brooks Astronomical Observatory, which features a 16‑inch Cassegrain reflector as its principal telescope. We are especially interested in applicants who can integrate computational methods and data analysis components into the physics and astronomy curriculum and can contribute to the operation of the CMU Brooks Observatory for education, student research, and outreach activities. The candidate is expected to involve undergraduate and graduate students in research.
Research Responsibilities The new faculty member will be expected to develop an externally funded research program at CMU that involves the use of ground‑based or space‑based observatories, including opportunities associated with leveraging large datasets from comprehensive observational surveys, or whose computational or theoretical work applies to current topics in astronomy and astrophysics. Preference will be given to candidates who can engage in collaborative projects that provide attractive opportunities for CMU students.
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field.
Potential to develop an externally funded research program.
Commitment to mentoring and teaching.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications
Strong publication record and postdoctoral research experience.
Ability to integrate computational methods and data analysis into physics and astronomy curriculum.
Ability to contribute to the operation of an astronomical observatory in support of education, research, and/or outreach activities.
Experience engaging in collaborative projects.
Application Deadline Apply by February 6, 2026.
Application Package The application package should include: a cover letter, a CV, a statement of research, a statement detailing your approach to teaching, and the contact information for three persons that can provide reference letters. Cover letters may be addressed to the Hiring Committee.
Posting Begins 12/18/2025
Contact Human Resources: (989) 774-2010 Faculty Personnel Services: (989) 774-3368
Equal Opportunity Employer Central Michigan University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The university does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, race, religion, sex, sex‑based stereotypes, sexual orientation, transgender status, veteran status, or weight.
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Teaching Responsibilities The teaching component involves undergraduate and graduate astronomy and physics courses. Lab components of the astronomy courses include the use of our on‑campus Brooks Astronomical Observatory, which features a 16‑inch Cassegrain reflector as its principal telescope. We are especially interested in applicants who can integrate computational methods and data analysis components into the physics and astronomy curriculum and can contribute to the operation of the CMU Brooks Observatory for education, student research, and outreach activities. The candidate is expected to involve undergraduate and graduate students in research.
Research Responsibilities The new faculty member will be expected to develop an externally funded research program at CMU that involves the use of ground‑based or space‑based observatories, including opportunities associated with leveraging large datasets from comprehensive observational surveys, or whose computational or theoretical work applies to current topics in astronomy and astrophysics. Preference will be given to candidates who can engage in collaborative projects that provide attractive opportunities for CMU students.
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field.
Potential to develop an externally funded research program.
Commitment to mentoring and teaching.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications
Strong publication record and postdoctoral research experience.
Ability to integrate computational methods and data analysis into physics and astronomy curriculum.
Ability to contribute to the operation of an astronomical observatory in support of education, research, and/or outreach activities.
Experience engaging in collaborative projects.
Application Deadline Apply by February 6, 2026.
Application Package The application package should include: a cover letter, a CV, a statement of research, a statement detailing your approach to teaching, and the contact information for three persons that can provide reference letters. Cover letters may be addressed to the Hiring Committee.
Posting Begins 12/18/2025
Contact Human Resources: (989) 774-2010 Faculty Personnel Services: (989) 774-3368
Equal Opportunity Employer Central Michigan University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The university does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, race, religion, sex, sex‑based stereotypes, sexual orientation, transgender status, veteran status, or weight.
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