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Assistant Professor Physics Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Visiting Assistant Professor Physics & Astronomy (Spring Semester - 2027) Position Type: Full time Location: Olin Science Building Categories: Faculty Exempt Job Summary: Job Duties: Bucknell ...

Assistant Professor Physics information

See Michigan salary details

$48.8K

$75.4K

$94.1K

How much do assistant professor physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor physics in Michigan is $75,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $92,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Physics jobs in Michigan?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Physics job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,368 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor Physics & Astronomy (Spring Semester - 2027)

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Position Title:

Visiting Assistant Professor Physics & Astronomy (Spring Semester - 2027)

Position Type:

Full time

Location:

Olin Science Building

Categories:

Faculty Exempt

Job Summary:

Job Duties:

Bucknell University's Department of Physics & Astronomy invites interested candidates to apply for the position of Visiting Assistant Professor (one semester) beginning in January 2027. This position has a teaching load of three courses for the spring semester. We especially value a commitment to inclusive student-oriented pedagogy and attention to the experiences of students from marginalized groups. Candidates are expected to have a Ph.D. or be ABD in physics, astronomy, or a related field by the position's start date.


For additional information and to apply, please visit careers.bucknell.edu. Please include a cover letter, C.V., and a statement of teaching philosophy. Candidates that progress through the review process will be asked to provide names and contact information for three professional references so that confidential letters of recommendation may be obtained.


Questions about the position should be emailed to Professor Ben Vollmayr-Lee at bvollmay@bucknell.edu. The review of applications will begin on September 28, 2026, and continue until filled.


Bucknell University is a private, highly selective, unique national University with complementary programs in the liberal arts and professional programs in engineering, business, education, and music. The Department of Physics & Astronomy is an entirely undergraduate department with 13 tenured and tenure track faculty and support provided by a lab coordinator, an administrative assistant, and two tech support staff. Typically, 8-12 physics majors graduate per year, and our introductory courses are taken by students majoring in all math and science disciplines, all of the students in the College of Engineering, and students from all majors in a liberal arts environment.


Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and we seek candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community. The University provides equal opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, marital status, veteran status or disability in admissions, employment and in all of its educational programs and activities. We encourage individuals from historically underrepresented groups to apply.


This role is not budgeted for visa sponsorship, all candidates must be authorized to work in the US without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.


Benefits:

Eligible full- and part-time employees are compensated beyond base salary through our total rewards package that includes (but is not limited to):

  • Flexible scheduling options determined by role;
  • Medical, prescription drug, vision, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance options
  • An outstanding 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan (no contribution requirement for non-exempt positions)
  • Full-time and part-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for themselves. Additionally, full-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for their spouse/spousal equivalent and are eligible for various tuition programs for their children. Credit for full-time benefits eligible employment at other institutions of higher education will be applied to waiting periods.
  • A comprehensive employee wellness program including program incentives
  • A myriad of other benefits, including parental leave, an employee assistance program, fitness center membership, and the power of your Bucknell ID card

To learn more about Bucknell's benefits, clickhere! (*Eligibility criteria and waiting periods may apply.)

Inclusive Excellence:
Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community.We endeavor to enhance our capacity to value and capitalize on the cultural richness that diversity brings. We encourage all individualsto apply and donot discriminate inadmissions, employment, educational programs and/or activitieson the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, sex/gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, military or veteran status, or genetic information.

E-Verify

Bucknell University participates with the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) E-Verify program. We will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

For additional information regarding Bucknell's E-Verify requirements, please contact the office of Talent, Culture & Human Resources (570) 577-1631 or emailhr@bucknell.edu.