What are the responsibilities and job description for the Instructor Physics and Astronomy position at OGLETHORPE UNIVERSITY INC?
Oglethorpe University welcomes applications for an Instructor of Physics and Astronomy, starting Fall 2026. This is a full-time, three-year, non-tenure track, non-renewable position. A minimum of a master’s degree with 18 graduate semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field, is required. Faculty must be prepared to report to campus full-time beginning August 10; all new faculty are required to attend new faculty orientation on August 17.
Faculty at Oglethorpe prioritize teaching and mentoring, and the successful candidate must demonstrate high potential to succeed on both fronts with our diverse student body. Successful Oglethorpe faculty demonstrate a commitment to the craft of teaching, including the use of evidence-based innovative pedagogy and involvement in scholarly activities to promote student education. The teaching load for this position is four courses each semester. The chosen candidate will teach introductory astronomy, introductory physics, and/or upper-division astronomy and astrophysics electives.
We are open to candidates with backgrounds in all physics and astronomy-related subfields, however strongest consideration will be given to applicants whose expertise enables them to support the Astrophysics Track within the Physics major. The ideal candidate will be able to develop electives that support the Astrophysics track of the Physics major and engage students in apprentice-style and course-embedded research experiences related to astronomy and/or astrophysics. The ideal candidate should demonstrate an interest in mentoring students seeking to pursue careers and graduate study in the fields of Astronomy and Astrophysics.
About Oglethorpe University
Founded in 1835, Oglethorpe University is a liberal arts college that unites a close-knit campus community with the big city culture and opportunities of Atlanta, Georgia. Today, the university enrolls close to 1,400 students, representing 33 states and 31 countries, and offers students Atlanta’s premiere undergraduate learning experience. Students at Oglethorpe benefit from small classes and close connections to our outstanding faculty.
Master’s degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field. A record of prior successful experience as an instructor of record is desirable.
To Apply
Please submit the following:
1. A cover letter describing your interest in Oglethorpe University
2. Current curriculum vitae
3. A statement of your philosophy and practice of teaching, outlining how you will implement that philosophy in undergraduate courses, which should speak to a demonstrated commitment to inclusive excellence
4. Contact information for 3 professional references
Additional materials may be requested at later stages. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Mariel Meier, Chair of the Division of Natural Sciences (mmeier@oglethorpe.edu).
Oglethorpe University is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive excellence. Oglethorpe prohibits discrimination against all applicants and employees based on race; age; color; religion; national origin or ancestry; sex; sexual orientation; gender; gender identity or gender expression; marital status; pregnancy; childbirth or related medical conditions; disability; genetic information; citizenship status; veteran status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.