Lecturer - Astronomy

University of Massachusetts Amherst•Amherst, MA

47d

About The Position

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued-and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world. The Department of Astronomy at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a full-time non-tenure track Lecturer with expertise in teaching Astronomy. This is an academic year, benefited 2-year position that is renewable contingent upon performance, including eligibility for a full-time continuing appointment after four years of service. We seek a dynamic educator who will contribute to our undergraduate teaching mission through high-quality instruction, innovative pedagogy, and active engagement with students. The successful candidate will teach a combination of introductory and upper-level astronomy courses, help supervise active learning laboratories, and contribute to departmental initiatives that promote experiential and inclusive learning in astronomy and astrophysics. This person will also perform service in support of the mission and goals of the Department and College. The University invests in our faculty's continued professional growth through the Center for Teaching and Learning. Lecturers at the University of Massachusetts are unionized with the potential for long-term careers with promotional advancement within the Lecturer ranks. Lecturers are also eligible to apply for numerous professional development grants and fellowships through the University and College of Natural Sciences (https://www.umass.edu/faculty-development/awards-recognition/professional-development-fellowships). The Department of Astronomy at UMass Amherst is part of the Five College Astronomy Department (FCAD), a unique consortium that fosters collaboration and resource sharing among UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, and Hampshire College. The successful applicant will have opportunities to participate in FCAD-wide activities and initiatives.

Requirements

A Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field by the time of appointment.
Demonstrated excellence in teaching at the college level.
Strong communication skills and a commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience in developing or teaching laboratory or project-based courses.
Demonstrated use of innovative or research-based teaching methods.
Experience supervising undergraduate research or observational projects.
Interest in supporting departmental efforts in public outreach, student recruitment, and inclusive excellence initiatives.

Responsibilities

Teach undergraduate courses in astronomy, including introductory general education courses and intermediate/advanced courses for majors.
Contribute to the development and delivery of laboratory and observational components, including use of the department's telescopes and teaching observatory.
Engage in curriculum development that promotes active learning, student engagement, and access in the classroom.
Mentor undergraduate students and participate in departmental academic activities and events.
Contribute to departmental service, including outreach, admission committees, mentoring, and curricular management and development.
Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean's strategic priorities.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

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