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Assistant Professor Physics Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

micro1 AI

AI Training Specialist - Physics

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$80 - $150/hr

Physics Expert (Postdoc / Junior professor) Role Type: Contractor Location: Remote (US, Canada, UK ... Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior ...

micro1 AI

AI Training Specialist - Physics

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

$80 - $150/hr

Physics Expert (Postdoc / Junior professor) Role Type: Contractor Location: Remote (US, Canada, UK ... Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior ...

micro1 AI

AI Training Specialist - Physics

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site +1

$80 - $150/hr

Physics Expert (Postdoc / Junior professor) Role Type: Contractor Location: Remote (US, Canada, UK ... Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior ...

All JobsProfessor Physics JobsAssistant Professor Physics JobsAssistant Professor Physics Jobs in Iowa

Assistant Professor Physics information

See Iowa salary details

$52.6K

$81.2K

$101.4K

How much do assistant professor physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor physics in Iowa is $81,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $99,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAssistant Professor PhysicsLecturer Physics
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Physics or related field, research experienceMaster's or Doctorate, teaching certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, academic institutions, research labsPrimarily teaching-focused, colleges or universities
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutesColleges, universities, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between Assistant Professor Physics and Lecturer Physics lies in their roles and expectations. Assistant Professors typically hold a PhD, engage in research, and have a tenure-track position, whereas Lecturers primarily focus on teaching and may have different qualification requirements. Both roles are found in academic settings, but Assistant Professors often have more research responsibilities and career advancement opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor physics?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Physics, you need a Ph.D. in physics or a related field, strong research experience, and a proven record of academic publications. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and learning management systems is commonly required. Excellent communication, mentorship abilities, and a passion for teaching help foster student engagement and collaboration with colleagues. These skills are crucial for effectively advancing research, delivering quality education, and contributing to the academic community.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant professors in physics during their early years, and how can they be addressed?

Assistant Professors in Physics often encounter challenges such as balancing research productivity with teaching responsibilities, securing research funding, and establishing their own academic network. Early-career faculty may find it demanding to develop new course materials while also publishing research and applying for grants. Building collaborations with colleagues, seeking mentorship, and effective time management can help address these challenges and set a strong foundation for tenure and career advancement.

What is an assistant professor physics?

An Assistant Professor of Physics is an early-career faculty member at a college or university who teaches undergraduate and sometimes graduate courses in physics, conducts research in their area of expertise, and mentors students. They are typically on a tenure-track, meaning they may eventually become Associate Professors after a review period. Their responsibilities also include publishing research, securing grants, and contributing to academic service within their department and institution.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Physics jobs in Iowa?

For Assistant Professor Physics jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Physics jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Physics jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Assistant Professor Physics jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Assistant Professor Physics job openings:

Assistant Professor Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Physics job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,219 per year, or $39 per hour.

AI Training Specialist - Physics

micro1 AI

Des Moines, IA • On-site, Remote

$80 - $150/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Role Title: Physics Expert (Postdoc / Junior professor)


Role Type: Contractor


Location: Remote (US, Canada, UK focused)


micro1 is engaging Physics Experts (Postdoc / Junior professor) to participate in a high-impact project supporting a customer in the science and technology sector. In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models learn, reason, and perform through high-quality, real-world input. No prior experience in AI is required — your domain knowledge is what matters.


Scope of Work

  1. Critically evaluate and review physics solutions, mathematical derivations, and theoretical arguments generated by researchers or AI platforms.
  2. Detect errors, unjustified steps, missing assumptions, dimensional inconsistencies, and weaknesses in logic or methodology.
  3. Delineate between substantive scientific issues and stylistic or cosmetic matters, providing technically precise written feedback.
  4. Articulate and document the reasoning behind any identified flaws, ensuring actionable guidance for improvement.
  5. Recognize when correct reasoning can be optimized, and offer suggestions to sharpen or clarify the argument.
  6. Utilize LaTeX, SymPy, Python, and Jupyter to independently verify or counter-check scientific claims as appropriate.
  7. Deliver structured feedback designed to support iterative enhancement of submitted work and project outcomes.


Preferred Qualifications

  1. PhD in physics and an active record of independent research within a specialized subfield (e.g., High Energy/Mathematical Physics, Biophysics/Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter, AMO/Quantum Optics, Gravitation/Cosmology, Quantum Information, or Optical Materials).
  2. Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior research scientist.
  3. Recent (last ~5 years) representative publications in the relevant subfield, with arXiv or DOI links.
  4. Advanced proficiency with LaTeX, SymPy, Python, and Jupyter for theoretical modeling and computational validation.
  5. Demonstrated skill in reviewing the work of others—through peer review, supervision, dissertation committees, or group seminars.
  6. Exceptional written communication skills with the ability to convey nuanced, constructive feedback with technical rigor.
  7. Reliable access to high-speed internet and a computer suitable for rigorous technical work.

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