Tenure Track Assistant or Associate Professor in Astrophysics

About the role

Villanova University, founded in 1842, is a mission‑driven Catholic institution inspired by the values of truth, unity, and love, consistently ranked among the nation’s best colleges. The Department of Astrophysics and Planetary Science offers undergraduate majors and minors in astronomy and astrophysics, with a strong tradition of involving students in research. Research areas include stellar astrophysics and binary stars, exoplanets and planetary science, near‑field cosmology, and time‑domain astronomy, supported by participation in TESS, Gaia, JWST, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory/LSST and other consortia. Faculty have access to the on‑site Villanova Observatory, high‑performance computing resources, and external observing collaborations. The successful candidate will maintain an active, externally recognized research program that engages undergraduates, contribute to the department’s academic mission, and foster inclusive teaching and mentoring to make astronomy accessible to all backgrounds. Rank will be commensurate with the candidate’s record and experience, and the appointment will begin in Fall 2027. The position is located in Villanova, PA (approximately 12 miles west of Philadelphia).

Responsibilities

• Maintain an active research agenda leading to publication.
• Teach undergraduate courses in astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, physics, or area of expertise, as well as other departmental courses, fostering connections across the discipline and the Villanova community.

Requirements

• PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, physics, or a closely related field, in hand by June 1, 2025.
• At least 2 years of postdoctoral or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching and mentoring students in research.

Qualifications

• Experience with astronomical instrumentation, observatory operations, or planetarium and public‑outreach programming (especially welcome but not required).
• Experience in inclusive teaching and mentoring practices.

Skills

Strong research program capable of external recognition; ability to engage undergraduates in research; effective teaching and mentoring; collaborative mindset; familiarity with major astrophysics surveys and facilities (TESS, Gaia, JWST, Rubin/LSST).

Benefits

• Holistic benefits package.
• Generous paid time off.
• Competitive retirement savings plan.
• Flexible work options.
• Wellness programs including gym membership.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Tuition assistance.

Schedule

Full‑time, 9‑month work schedule.