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Associate Professor Of Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Carleton College invites applications for a tenure-track position in experimental physics (Assistant Professor of Physics) that would normally begin September 1, 2027. Applications received by Sept ...

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Associate Professor Of Physics information

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate 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 is an associate professor of physics?

Associate Professors of Physics are mid-level faculty members at colleges or universities who teach undergraduate and graduate physics courses, conduct research, and contribute to the academic community through service and mentorship. They typically have earned a Ph.D. in physics or a related field and have demonstrated significant achievements in teaching, research, and scholarly activities. Associate professors are often on the path to becoming full professors and may supervise student research, secure grant funding, and publish scientific work.

What are some typical challenges faced by an associate professor of physics when balancing research and teaching responsibilities?

Associate Professors of Physics often juggle significant research commitments while maintaining a high standard of teaching and mentoring students. Managing grant applications, publishing papers, and leading research projects can be time-intensive, sometimes conflicting with lecture preparation, grading, and student consultations. Effective time management and setting clear priorities are crucial, as is seeking support from departmental colleagues and leveraging administrative resources. Building a collaborative team and engaging graduate students in research can also help balance these dual roles.

What is the difference between Associate Professor Of Physics vs Assistant Professor Of Physics?

AspectAssociate Professor Of PhysicsAssistant Professor Of Physics
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Physics, several years of teaching/research experience, tenure track or tenuredPh.D. in Physics, typically recent Ph.D. graduates, entry-level faculty
Work EnvironmentUniversity or college faculty, involved in teaching, research, and serviceUniversity or college faculty, primarily teaching and beginning research
Employer & Industry UsageHigher academic rank, often with more responsibilities and recognitionEntry-level faculty position, focus on establishing research and teaching skills

The main difference between Associate Professor Of Physics and Assistant Professor Of Physics lies in experience, rank, and responsibilities. Associate professors have typically achieved tenure and possess more teaching and research experience, whereas assistant professors are usually early in their academic careers. Both roles are essential in academia, but the associate level indicates a higher standing and more established record in the field.

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

To thrive as an Associate Professor of Physics, you need an advanced degree (usually a Ph.D.) in physics or a related field, a strong record of research and publications, and teaching experience at the university level. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and learning management systems (like Canvas or Blackboard) is typical. Excellent communication, mentorship, and problem-solving skills help foster student engagement and collaborative research. These competencies drive effective teaching, impactful research, and contribute to the academic advancement of both students and the institution.

Are physics professors in demand?

Physics professors are generally in steady demand at research universities and colleges, especially those with expertise in emerging fields like quantum mechanics or astrophysics. Employment opportunities depend on factors such as academic qualifications, research output, and funding availability, with competition often high for tenure-track positions.
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What cities are hiring for Associate Professor Of Physics jobs? Cities with the most Associate 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:
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Infographic showing various Associate Professor Of Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,471 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Physics

Amherst College

Amherst, MA • On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Amherst College rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 616 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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