Open-Rank Professor, Physics

UATX•Austin, TX

About The Position

The Center for Sciences at the University of Austin invites applications for open-rank faculty positions in Physics. Faculty teach talented and motivated students in small classes with rigorous academic expectations. The typical annual teaching load is 18 quarter hours, equivalent to 12 semester hours or a 2/2 semester-system load. Faculty teach in their area of specialty in upper-division courses and may teach more broadly in related areas in lower-division courses. Research and creative work may include traditional journal and conference publications, as well as outward-facing work with startups and larger firms. Research is evaluated for intellectual significance and practical, constructive impact on the human condition. Faculty also help design and build improvements to traditional higher education through innovative institutional service. Physics students complete core coursework in mechanics, electromagnetics, thermodynamics, basic quantum mechanics, and relativity, then pursue advanced theoretical or experimental/applied study. Faculty should be able to mentor students in a variety of physics-related projects. The Center for Sciences emphasizes quantitative and scientific reasoning and the creative application of mathematics, economics, science, and technology. The university is developing an Applied Engineering Lab in Bastrop, Texas, for hands-on learning in the design, construction, and testing of complex electromechanical systems. Appointments will be at the Assistant, Associate, or full Professor rank, with an anticipated start in Fall 2027. Part-time appointments will be considered; candidates interested in part-time work should state this in their cover letter. Faculty positions are long-term academic appointments supported by renewable five-year contracts; the university does not use a traditional tenure system. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with rank, and includes comprehensive benefits and a research stipend. Applicants should upload a CV and cover letter. The cover letter should explain their interest in the position, relevant teaching and research experience, and alignment with the university’s mission. Application review begins immediately, with priority review for applications submitted by January 4, 2027. Candidates selected for further review may be asked for writing samples, references, and/or a teaching portfolio.

Requirements

PhD in physics or a closely related field.
Strong teaching ability.
A record of physics research or advanced work in technology.
A multidisciplinary viewpoint and breadth of interest within the hard sciences.
Ability to mentor students in a variety of physics-related projects.

Responsibilities

Teach courses across class levels, including specialty courses in upper-division areas and broader related courses in the lower division.
Maintain a substantive research agenda and conduct physics research or advanced work in technology with intellectual significance and practical, constructive impact.
Mentor students in a variety of physics-related projects.
Contribute to designing and building innovative improvements to traditional higher education.