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Exercise Science Postdoc Jobs in Alexandria, VA (NOW HIRING)

... exercise science, or a closely related field. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Demonstrated ... Postdoctoral research experience is strongly preferred. There should be evidence of the potential ...

Exercise Science Postdoc information

What types of research collaboration opportunities are typically available for exercise science postdocs?

Exercise Science Postdocs often have the chance to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including physiologists, clinicians, nutritionists, and biomechanists. These collaborations may involve joint research projects, grant writing, or co-authoring publications, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities. Engaging with other departments or external institutions can also broaden your research scope and help you develop new technical skills. Such collaboration is not only encouraged but is often essential for career advancement in academia and industry.

What is an exercise science postdoc?

Exercise Science Postdocs are individuals who have completed a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in exercise science or a related field and are engaged in advanced research training, usually at a university or research institution. Their work often focuses on studying the physiological, biomechanical, and behavioral aspects of physical activity, exercise, and health. Postdoctoral positions are designed to help early-career scientists build research skills, publish scholarly work, and prepare for independent careers in academia, industry, or clinical settings. These positions typically last from one to three years and may involve teaching, mentoring, and grant writing in addition to research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise science postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Postdoc, you need a Ph.D. in exercise science or a related field, strong research skills, and a solid understanding of human physiology and movement. Experience with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and peer-reviewed publishing is typically required. Critical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for advancing research, publishing impactful studies, and contributing meaningfully to academic and scientific communities.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Postdoc vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise Science PostdocExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), research experienceBachelor's or Master's degree, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academic settingsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, rehabilitation facilities
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutions, academiaHealthcare, sports, wellness industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Exercise Science Postdoc primarily focuses on research and academic pursuits, often working in universities or research institutions. In contrast, an Exercise Physiologist applies practical skills in clinical or fitness settings to improve patient or client health. While both roles involve exercise and health, the Postdoc emphasizes research credentials, whereas the Exercise Physiologist centers on certification and direct client care.

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Postdoc jobs in Alexandria, VA? For Exercise Science Postdoc jobs in Alexandria, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Alexandria, VA are hiring for Exercise Science Postdoc jobs? Cities near Alexandria, VA with the most Exercise Science Postdoc job openings:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Postdoc job openings in Alexandria, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Assistant Professor

University of Maryland

College Park, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


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Job description

Job Description Summary
ORGANIZATION'S SUMMARY STATEMENT:
The Department of Kinesiology within the School of Public Health at the University of Maryland College Park (https://sph.umd.edu/academics/departments-units/department-kinesiology) invites applications for a 9-month tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor. The department is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative scientist in the area of biomechanics. Applicants for this position should have strong potential for research excellence in the understanding of mechanical, neuromuscular, and/or computational mechanisms underlying human movement across the lifespan. Applicants with research foci in the areas of musculoskeletal biomechanics, neuromechanics, injury and rehabilitation, wearable sensing, movement analytics, and/or biomechanics of aging and disease are encouraged to apply.
The successful candidate will be expected to establish and sustain a high-quality, extramurally funded research program, teach undergraduate and graduate courses in biomechanics and related areas, advise and mentor graduate students, and serve on comprehensive examination committees and department committees. Special consideration will be given to candidates who complement ongoing research within the department.
PURPOSE OF POSITION:
The Department of Kinesiology embodies the core pillars of the University of Maryland's Strategic Plan by advancing innovative research, reimagining learning, and addressing grand challenges in human health and performance. The department examines the complex role of physical activity and movement in health and well-being across the lifespan through interdisciplinary collaboration and research.
The University of Maryland is the flagship institution of the state of Maryland on the ancestral lands of the Piscataway people, the traditional stewards of the lands where we work, live, and learn. The University of Maryland is an extraordinary place-vibrant and dynamic and diverse. We are a place of learning: a school dedicated to the art and science of education and committed to reimagining teaching and learning inside both classrooms and communities. We are a campus dedicated to the indisputable value of science and humanities, inquiry, and creativity, and comprising thousands of researchers and discoverers working in hundreds of laboratories, libraries, and collaborative spaces. Strategically located just a few miles from the US capital, our university is a place where new knowledge is pursued, discovered, and championed. We are also a community, nearly half a million members strong, of diverse students, faculty, staff, and alumni; a small city of residents and commuters, first responders and health care workers, learners, artists, and athletes; a place where thousands come to work every day to make a difference. Our diversity is integral to our excellence. And, ours is a community that is intrinsically connected to our surrounding neighborhoods and our state, our nation, and our world. The University of Maryland remains, since our founding, an institution of change and progress dedicated to the public good. Our university is evolving faster than at any moment in its storied history. Our guiding principles are helping us to empower the next generation of leaders, educators, scientists, and global citizens to develop creative solutions to the grand challenges of our times.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Candidates should possess a doctoral degree in kinesiology, biomechanics, biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, exercise science, or a closely related field.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Demonstrated expertise in the biomechanics of human movement.
Evidence of (or demonstrated potential for) a sustainable and focused research program.
Evidence of experience with advanced laboratory (clinical, basic, biomechanical, or computational) methodologies
Evidence of (or demonstrated potential for) a strong publication record in kinesiology.
Evidence of (or demonstrated potential for) high-quality teaching and mentoring in kinesiology.
Evidence of strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills within a research team.
Preferences:
Postdoctoral research experience is strongly preferred.
There should be evidence of the potential to obtain extramural funding.
Evidence of classroom teaching experience and research mentoring is desirable.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
No unusual physical or environmental demands
Normal classroom teaching demands
Using a computer and keyboard
Sitting for periods of time
Standing for periods of time
Using lab or mechanical equipment
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:
N/A
Additional Job Details
Required Application Materials:
Cover letter describing interests, qualifications, and current research
Curriculum vitae
Three representative publications that are illustrative of their research expertise
List of three references (letters not required at time of application)
Applications will be held in confidence until finalists are invited for campus interviews. References will not be contacted without a candidate's consent.
Review of applications will begin on October 16, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.
Best Consideration Date:
10/16/2026
Posting Close Date:
N/A
Open Until Filled:
Yes
Financial Disclosure Required
No
For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.
Department
SPHL-Kinesiology
Worker Sub-Type
Faculty Regular
Salary Range
$100,000-$110,000
Benefits Summary
For more information on Regular Faculty benefits, select this link.
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment Eligibility
The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice
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