Assistant Professor, Physics Education Research

University of Central Florida • Orlando, FL

46d

About The Position

The Department of Physics (physics.ucf.edu) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) invites applications for a full-time, nine-month faculty position for specialization in Physics Education Research at the rank of assistant professor (tenure-earning), anticipated to begin in August 2026. UCF is a leader in innovative teaching techniques and pedagogy, especially those that align with the opportunities and challenges of a large metropolitan university. We have a vibrant and active Discipline-based Education Researcher community, with research in multiple STEM areas, including Physics and Chemistry. We seek candidates with experience in Physics Education Research and/or Discipline-based Education Research, who will build on existing strengths advancing physics pedagogy. Specific areas of interest include but are not limited to: Introductory or upper-level physics labs; Application of cutting-edge technology such as generative artificial intelligence and machine learning in STEM Education Research; Analysis of qualitative and/or mixed methods research data; Meta-cognition, emotion, and self-regulated learning; Technology-enhanced learning; Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Informatics Education Research; and Astronomy Education Research. The candidate should consider how their research program would enhance interaction and collaboration with other related research programs across the university, including in Physics, Chemistry, other College of Sciences departments, the College of Community Innovation and Education, the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the Learning Sciences cluster, and the new Institute of Artificial Intelligence. The successful candidate is expected to establish a vigorous, externally funded, and creative research program and demonstrate excellence in graduate and undergraduate teaching and mentoring. Instructional duties and service assignments are in accordance with the department's current equitable workload policy. The Department of Physics is at the heart of our nation's SpaceU, offering a broad range of courses in physics and related areas such as astronomy and planetary science, from general education physical sciences to advanced graduate-level topics. Our faculty work on cutting-edge research funded by industry and government, helping to push the frontiers of science and innovation. With modern working spaces and equipment and extensive collaboration opportunities across UCF campuses and Central Florida's Research Parkway, including a high-performance computing cluster, photonics, and more, our physics faculty are positioned to make an impact in the region and beyond. The department also has a strong STEM mission, engaging in outreach with the Central Florida community to increase scientific literacy and to attract K-12 students to careers in science. The department offers B.S., B.A., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees, including a master's to Ph.D. bridge program, preparing students for a range of careers. UCF, named one of the most innovative public universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, is located in Orlando, Florida and is classified as a Very High Research Activity university by the Carnegie Foundation. UCF is one of the largest universities in the nation and with more than 70,000 students is the largest university by enrollment in Florida. It offers more than 240 degree programs, and is an economic engine, attracting and supporting industries vital to the region's future while providing students with real-world experiences that help them succeed after graduation. It is at the center of the Florida High Tech Corridor where industries include software, defense, space, simulation and training, and entertainment. Adjacent to UCF is a thriving research park that conducts over $2 billion in funded research. Great weather, easy access to the seashore, one of the largest convention centers in the nation, and one of the world's best airports are just a few features that make Orlando an ideal location. Learn more about UCF at http://www.ucf.edu/faculty. The UCF College of Sciences (COS) is the largest college at the university and a powerhouse for the regional and national STEM workforce, spanning the natural, computational, physical, and social sciences and housing centers, institutes and initiatives that serve as hubs for research and innovation. Through sharing and applying knowledge, COS is cultivating pathways for students to solve our world's most pressing and complex problems. With a mission to provide a world-class education in an environment where faculty, staff, and students thrive, research flourishes, and our community prospers; a number of COS academic programs are among those nationally ranked by U.S. News and World Report, Princeton Review, and others. For more information, please visit https://sciences.ucf.edu.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. or equivalent from an accredited institution in physics or a closely related discipline at the time of hire
• A record of independent research.

Nice To Haves

• A record of successful research in physics or astronomy education research.
• A record of externally funded research, and/or a clear potential for future external funding.
• Experience teaching physics and/or astronomy at the university level.
• Experience with or interest in integrating technology into teaching and research.

Responsibilities

• Establish a vigorous, externally funded, and creative research program
• Demonstrate excellence in graduate and undergraduate teaching and mentoring
• Instructional duties and service assignments are in accordance with the department's current equitable workload policy.

Benefits

• Benefit packages, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending, and Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid time off, including annual (12-month faculty) and sick time off and paid holidays.
• Retirement savings options.
• Employee discounts, including tickets to many Orlando attractions.
• Education assistance.
• Flexible work environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees