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Assistant Professor Physics Jobs in Springfield, MA

Description Amherst College's Department of Physics and Astronomy invites applications for a full-time tenure-track position in physics at the rank of assistant professor. We welcome all applications ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Assistant Professor Physics information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$55.8K

$86.2K

$107.6K

How much do assistant professor physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor physics in Springfield, MA is $86,168.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $105,600.00 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 Springfield, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Physics jobs in Springfield, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Physics jobs in Springfield, MA are:

What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Assistant Professor Physics jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Assistant Professor Physics job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Physics job openings in Springfield, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,168 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Physics

Amherst College

Amherst, MA • On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Amherst College rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
Amherst College's Department of Physics and Astronomy invites applications for a full-time tenure-track position in physics at the rank of assistant professor. We welcome all applications, especially those from applicants whose research is in theoretical or computational physics. The appointment will start July 1, 2027. The department seeks a person who demonstrates a commitment to teaching in a liberal-arts environment and to establishing a robust research program involving undergraduates. A Ph.D. in physics or a closely related field is required.
The successful candidate will teach physics courses at all levels, including associated labs. The teaching load is two courses per semester. Experience with inclusive pedagogy is preferred.
The successful candidate will mount an independent physics research program that involves undergraduate students, supervise honors projects, and contribute to the life of the department and college. Research support includes start-up funding and state-of-the-art facilities.
There is a broader research community in the area because of Amherst College's proximity to the University of Massachusetts, as well as Smith and Mount Holyoke Colleges. Additional information about faculty hiring at Amherst College is available on our candidates' page.
The expected salary range for this job opportunity is $90,000 to $125,000. The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including but not limited to relevant education, training, and experience, tenure status, and other nondiscriminatory business considerations. Amherst College is pleased to provide a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package that meets the needs of staff and faculty and their families. Click here for Benefits Information.
Applicants are asked to submit the following materials electronically to https://apply.interfolio.com/190300: a cover letter summarizing your interest in the position; a curriculum vitae; a teaching statement that includes a summary of your experiences with and approaches to teaching; a research statement that includes a discussion of how you plan to involve undergraduates in your research program; and the names of three referees whom you will ask to provide letters of recommendation. Candidates should ask referees to upload letters of recommendation by November 1, 2026. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.
Amherst College is one of the most diverse liberal arts colleges in the country. The college is committed to providing financial aid that meets 100 percent of every student's demonstrated need, and nearly 60 percent of Amherst students receive financial aid. Our expectation is that the successful candidate will excel at teaching and mentoring a broad range of students. The college is committed to enriching its educational experience and its culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration, and staff and works to support all members of its community. Amherst College is an equal opportunity employer and encourages women, persons of color, and persons with disabilities to apply.
About Amherst
As a leading liberal arts institution, Amherst College values a wide range of backgrounds and experiences among its students, faculty, administration, and staff, recognizing that this enhances the educational experience and campus culture. Amherst is committed to cultivating a vibrant and welcoming community. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ways in which they bring value to and will work towards supporting our campus community. Learn more here.
Statement of Nondiscrimination
Amherst College does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs and activities on the basis of race, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender expression, and gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, military service, or any other characteristic or class protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Amherst College complies with all state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, Title IX, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Equal Pay Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Inquiries should be addressed to the chief equity and inclusion officer, Amherst College, P.O. Box 5000, Amherst, MA 01002-5000. More information about Amherst College for prospective candidates is available here: https://www.amherst.edu/academiclife/provost_dean_faculty/faculty_hiring/for-candidates
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