Assistant/Associate Professor of Physical Therapy

About the role

The Physical Therapy Program in the Department of Human Movement Science at Oakland University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor position beginning August 15, 2026. We seek a dynamic educator–scholar committed to advancing physical therapy education, clinical practice, and translational research. The successful candidate will join a collaborative faculty within the School of Health Sciences and contribute to teaching in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum while developing a program of scholarship supported by strong clinical partnerships, research infrastructure, and mentorship opportunities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Current licensure as a Physical Therapist in the State of Michigan, or demonstrated eligibility followed by attainment of licensure within one year of hire.
• CAPTE-recognized terminal academic degree (PhD, EdD, DSc, DHS, or equivalent).
• Minimum of three years of clinical experience in physical therapy practice.
• Evidence of initiated scholarly activity or potential to develop a sustained research agenda.
• Commitment to collaboration, service, and advancing the mission of the Physical Therapy Program.

Assistant Professor Rank

• Minimum of three years of clinical experience in physical therapy practice.
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness.
• Sustained record of scholarly activity, including peer-reviewed publications or externally disseminated scholarship.
• Evidence of professional service and engagement consistent with expectations for a mid-career faculty member.
• Commitment to collaboration and advancing the mission of the Physical Therapy Program.

Associate Professor Rank

• Completion of an accredited residency or fellowship in physical therapy or an equivalent university based graduate certificate.
• Expertise in physical therapy practice, movement science, or related foundational or clinical sciences that complement program needs.
• Experience with curriculum development or innovative teaching methods, including simulation-based education.
• A record of peer-reviewed publications, grant activity, or externally funded research.
• Experience mentoring doctoral students, residents, or fellows.
• Engagement in professional leadership within organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association.
• Commitment to community engagement, interprofessional collaboration, and inclusive excellence.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Not specified.

School/College & Department/Program Summary

The School of Health Sciences serves approximately 2,000 undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and post-professional students through a model emphasizing community-engaged translational partnerships and the integration of theory with best practices. The School is organized into four thematic departments: Public and Environmental Wellness, Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, and Human Movement Science. The Department of Human Movement Science offers bachelor’s (BS), clinical professional (DPT), and post-professional degrees and certificates across exercise science (EXS), physical therapy (PT), and orthotics and prosthetics (O&P). Faculty and students benefit from multiple teaching and research laboratories including: PT labs in Acute Care Simulation, Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, and Neurorehabilitation, EXS labs in Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Ergonomics and Abilities Research, and Strength and Fitness, Orthotics and Prosthetics Fabrication Lab. Oakland University supports faculty scholarship through internal funding, grant-writing support, and mentorship through the Office of Research. Additional School of Health Sciences opportunities include Seed and Sprout Grants and PT Faculty Research Grants. The Physical Therapy Program maintains strong clinical partnerships, supports pro bono and community wellness initiatives, and includes faculty recognized nationally and internationally for their research and clinical expertise. Oakland University’s platinum LEED-certified campus and extensive clinical and community partnerships provide a supportive environment for innovative teaching, meaningful service, and impactful research in support of health.

More About Oakland University

The University is located on 1,443 acres of scenic land in the cities of Rochester Hills and Auburn Hills in Oakland County, Michigan. The University offers 142 bachelor’s degree programs and 138 graduate degree and certificate programs. Academics include programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Services, School of Engineering and Computer Science, School of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, and School of Nursing. As an anchor institution in southeastern Michigan that is dedicated to building ongoing, collaborative relationships, Oakland University embraces community and civic engagement to enhance the lives of its students and positively impact the broader community. Learn more about Oakland University’s Mission & Vision and Strategic Plan.

Pay Basis

Not specified.

Open Date

03/27/2026

Open Until Filled

Yes

Job Category

Full-time Faculty

EEO Statement

Oakland University is an Equal Opportunity institution.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover Letter
• Transcripts (unofficial)
• Research Statement
• Teaching Philosophy
• List of References