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Assistant Professor Of Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Professor Of Physics information

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$56K

$86.5K

$108K

How much do assistant professor of physics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor of physics in the United States is $86,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What opportunities for research collaboration are available to an Assistant Professor of Physics within a university setting?

As an Assistant Professor of Physics, you will typically have access to a vibrant academic community, which fosters opportunities for interdisciplinary and departmental research collaborations. Many universities encourage junior faculty to initiate joint projects with colleagues, participate in research groups, and apply for collaborative grants. You may also have the chance to mentor graduate and undergraduate students on research projects, further expanding your collaborative network. Engaging in these partnerships can enhance your research output and open doors for future funding and career advancement.

What Does an Assistant Professor of Physics Do?

An assistant professor of physics can instruct students at both the undergraduate and graduate level. They generally teach introductory or general education courses on various topics of physics, such as laws of matter and energy, electricity and magnetism, thermal physics, quantum physics, and mechanics. As they gain experience, they may teach higher-level courses that include condensed matter, atomic and molecular physics, biophysics, theoretical physics, and astronomy. Assistant professors of physics create syllabi for classes which outlines the term’s assignments, labs, and tests for the students. They may also participate in research projects and publish papers in industry journals.

What are the responsibilities of an Assistant Professor of Physics?

An Assistant Professor of Physics is responsible for teaching undergraduate and/or graduate courses in physics, conducting original research, publishing scholarly articles, and mentoring students. They often participate in academic committees, curriculum development, and outreach activities. Additionally, they may be involved in securing research funding and collaborating with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects. Their role is essential in advancing both education and research within the field of physics.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor Of Physics vs Lecturer in Physics?

AspectAssistant Professor Of PhysicsLecturer in Physics
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Physics or related fieldMaster's or Doctorate, depending on institution
Work EnvironmentResearch and teaching at universities, involved in academic dutiesPrimarily teaching, often with less research emphasis
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, research institutionsUniversities, colleges, sometimes technical institutes
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic career paths, qualifications, and rolesClarifying teaching roles and responsibilities in academia

The Assistant Professor Of Physics typically holds a PhD and combines research with teaching responsibilities at universities. In contrast, a Lecturer in Physics mainly focuses on teaching, often with less emphasis on research. Both roles are common in academic settings, but the Assistant Professor position usually involves a pathway toward tenure and research contributions, whereas the Lecturer role centers on instruction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Professor of Physics, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Physics, you need an advanced degree (usually a Ph.D.) in physics or a related discipline, strong research experience, and teaching credentials. Proficiency with scientific research tools, data analysis software (such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW), and familiarity with learning management systems like Canvas or Blackboard is typically required. Exceptional communication, mentorship, and organizational skills set individuals apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively advancing research, delivering high-quality education, and fostering student success.
What cities are hiring for Assistant Professor Of Physics jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Professor Of Physics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Professor Of Physics jobs? The most popular types of Professor Of Physics jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Assistant Professor Of Physics jobs? The top employers for Assistant Professor Of Physics jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Professor Of Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Professor Of Physics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Of Physics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 28% Locum Tenens, 32% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 25% Nights, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,471 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Assistant Professor of Physics

Assistant Professor of Physics

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


University Of Southern Mississippi rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

530th of 536 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Assistant Professor of Physics
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Physics.
Position Details
Location
Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division
Physics and Astronomy
Position Type
Faculty
Employment Status
Full Time
Grant Funded
No
Pay Grade
Generic Grade
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to ApplicantsPlease upload thefollowing documents:
Cover letter
Curriculum vitae (CV) (including a publication list)
Teaching statement
Research statement
Unofficial graduate transcripts
Contact information for three references
Review ofapplications will begin on November 17, 2025, and continue until the positionis filled.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in theUnited States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. TheUniversity will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job SummaryTheUniversity of Southern Mississippi invites applications for a full-time,nine-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Physics in the Schoolof Mathematics and Natural Sciences within the College of Arts andSciences, to begin August 2026. We seek a dynamic scholar with demonstrative excellence in research, teaching, and mentorship, who willactively contribute to the continued growth of the School'sresearch and graduate programs.
Thesuccessful candidate will be expected to develop a vigorous,externally-funded research program, contribute to high-qualityinstruction at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and engage in collaborative,interdisciplinary research in theoretical/computational physics alignedwith the University's expanding R1research profile.Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Conduct original, high-impact research and pursue sustained external funding.
  2. Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in physics and related areas.
  3. Supervise and mentor undergraduate, master's and doctoral students.
  4. Contribute to curriculum innovation and the development of new interdisciplinary programs.
  5. Participate actively in service at the School, College, and University levels.
  6. Foster a collegial and inclusive academic environment that promotes student success and research excellence.
  7. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum QualificationsPh.D. in Physics, or a closely related field.
Demonstrated excellence or strong potential for excellence in teaching, research, and scholarly productivity.
At least 18 graduate credit hours in Physics.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Ability to articulate concepts and instructions effectively to students.
  • Capacity to build positive and professional relationships with students and colleagues.
  • Skill in managing course materials, time, and administrative tasks like grading.
  • Familiarity with standard software for communication and online learning platforms.
  • Proficiency in applying computational frameworks in teaching and research.

Preferred QualificationsResearch interests in one or more of the following areas:
Theoretical Physics
Computational physics
AI-driven methods in applied and computational physics
Evidence of potential for securing external funding.
Record of or potential for interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly in data science, computational science, engineering, or the natural sciences.
Commitment to mentoring students and contributing to the School's research and educational missions.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of SouthernMississippi has remained dedicated to preparingstudents for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 studentsin Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across theMississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Weare a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one ofthe nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work inpolymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringinglanguage to children with communication disorders. We are also a nationalleader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enterfields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs suchas computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation ofbusiness leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages byproducing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition ofexcellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nationaccredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, ourstudent-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion andpersistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.