The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Northern Arizona University (www.physics.nau.edu) is seeking excellent candidates for two tenure-track positions in astronomy and/or planetary science at the Assistant Professor level beginning in August, 2016. The successful candidates are expected to become excellent and enthusiastic teachers, conduct externally-funded research, advise students, and serve on committees at both the department and university level.
The minimum qualification is an earned doctorate in physics, astronomy, or a related field. Preferred qualifications include demonstrated interest or ability to develop a research program that involves undergraduates and graduate students; a demonstrated record of publications and/or extramural funding in astronomy and/or planetary science; evidence of high quality teaching and commitment to student success; expertise in exoplanets, astro-informatics, astro-chemistry, astronomical instrumentation, and/or observational astronomy specializing in Solar System objects, exoplanets, or related topics; and the ability to work with students, colleagues, and community members from diverse cultures.
Applicants should submit a CV, a statement describing approaches to pedagogy and student success, a statement describing research interests, an unofficial copy of their graduate transcripts, and the names and contact information of three references. Send application materials to Astronomy and Planetary Science Search Committee Chair, Dept. of Physics and Astronomy, Northern Arizona University, Box 6010, Flagstaff, AZ 86011-6010. The search will remain open until the position is filled or closed; however, the screening committee will begin reviewing applications on October 12, 2015.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy will launch a PhD program in Astronomy and Planetary Science in Fall, 2016. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to help create this new program, adding to our ongoing research efforts and the success of our undergraduate and masters programs. Our department maintains a true focus on undergraduate education and research experiences, and has a growing research mission that is commensurate with our new PhD program.
The Department has active research programs in physics and astronomy and about 200 undergraduate student majors. Our astronomy research includes using archival data, ground-based telescopes, and space-based facilities to study the small bodies in the Solar System and the formation and evolution of other planetary systems; planetary geology research with spacecraft imagery; and laboratory studies of astrophysical ices. Researchers at NAU have full competitive access to all University of Arizona Observatories facilities (LBT, MMT, Magellan, etc.); NAU is also a 5% partner in the Discovery Channel Telescope. We also have experimental physics facilities that include nano-science, XPS, FTIR, AFM, optical metrology, and a high performance computer cluster.
Northern Arizona University is a 25,000-student institution with its main campus in Flagstaff, a four-season community of about 62,000 at 7,000 feet elevation at the base of the majestic San Francisco Peaks. NAU’s emphasis on undergraduate education is enhanced by its graduate programs and research as well as distance learning. All faculty members are expected to promote student learning and help students achieve academic outcomes. The university is committed to a diverse and civil working and learning environment.
Northern Arizona University requires satisfactory results for the following: a criminal background investigation, employment history verification, and degree verification (in some cases) prior to employment. You may also be required to complete a fingerprint background check. Additionally, NAU is required to participate in the federal E-Verify program that assists employers with verifying new employees’ right to work in the United States.
The salary range for this position is $60,000 to $64,000 depending on qualifications and experience.
NAU is an AA/ EEO employer. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.
Please see www.nau.edu/hr for position announcement [position number 602152].