Assistant Professor - Physics

About the role

Full‑time tenure‑line Assistant Professor position in the Department of Physics at the University of Puget Sound, beginning Fall 2027. The appointment is a joint appointment with the home department in Physics. Most teaching will be in the physics major, with 1‑2 courses per year also contributing to the Computer Science Department or the Data Analytics Program. The successful candidate will develop an active undergraduate research program that incorporates computational physics, analysis of large data sets, or substantial computer‑based data analysis, teach across the undergraduate physics curriculum, and may teach courses in either Data Analytics or Computer Science. A typical semester load is two courses and two laboratory sections. The position is located in Tacoma, Washington—a vibrant, diverse mid‑sized urban port city with ready access to urban, rural, and natural areas and a wide variety of cultural activities. The Physics Department emphasizes excellence in teaching and mentoring of undergraduate research, featuring faculty‑taught laboratories, small classes, a robust student/faculty research program, and a commitment to student success and inclusive teaching. Graduates often pursue graduate study in physics or engineering or enter science‑related industry. The department is housed in the University of Puget Sound Science Center alongside Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics & Computer Science, and Environmental Studies and Sciences.

Responsibilities

• Teach physics courses (including laboratories) and up to two courses per year in Computer Science or Data Analytics.
• Develop and sustain an undergraduate research program involving computational physics, large‑scale data analysis, or substantial computer‑based data analysis.
• Mentor undergraduate students in research and coursework.
• Participate in departmental service and adhere to the university’s Shared Faculty Appointments Policy.
• Show promise and enthusiasm for becoming a skilled teacher.

Qualifications

• PhD in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field by the time of appointment.
• Demonstrated commitment to undergraduate teaching, research mentorship, and inclusive pedagogy.
• Postdoctoral experience preferred.

Benefits

• Generous benefits package (see the Summary of 2026 Benefits for Faculty Members PDF for details).
• Shared Faculty Appointments Policy applies (