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Exercise Science Professor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Science Professor information

See Virginia salary details

$123.4K

$141.3K

$156.6K

How much do exercise science professor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science professor in Virginia is $141,277.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,400.00 and $150,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an exercise science professor do?

An Exercise Science Professor teaches undergraduate and graduate courses related to human movement, physiology, biomechanics, and health. They conduct research in areas such as physical fitness, sports performance, rehabilitation, and chronic disease prevention. In addition to teaching and research, they may mentor students, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to curriculum development within their department. Exercise Science Professors often collaborate with other professionals in health and wellness fields to advance scientific knowledge and best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise science professor?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Professor, you typically need a doctoral degree in exercise science or a related field, along with expertise in physiology, kinesiology, and research methodology. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and academic publishing platforms is crucial. Strong communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help engage students and collaborate effectively with colleagues. These competencies ensure high-quality teaching, impactful research, and leadership within academic and professional communities.

What are some common challenges faced by exercise science professors in balancing research, teaching, and service responsibilities?

Exercise Science Professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including conducting research, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, and participating in service activities like academic committees or community outreach. Balancing these tasks can be challenging, especially during peak periods like grant submission deadlines or exam seasons. Successful professors typically manage their time carefully, set clear priorities, and collaborate with colleagues to share the workload. Additionally, staying current with the latest research while ensuring high-quality teaching and meaningful student mentorship requires strong organizational and communication skills.

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

AspectExercise Science ProfessorExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D. or Ed.D.), research experienceBachelor's or Master's, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research labs, classroomsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers
Employer & IndustryHigher education institutions, research organizationsHealthcare, sports medicine, fitness industry
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic roles, teaching, researchClinical practice, health assessment

Exercise Science Professors primarily focus on teaching and research within academic settings, requiring advanced degrees and research experience. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists work directly with clients or patients in clinical or fitness environments, often holding certifications and focusing on health assessments and exercise prescriptions. Both roles share a foundation in exercise science but differ significantly in work environment and responsibilities.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Exercise Science Professor jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Exercise Science Professor job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Science Professor job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,277 per year, or $67.9 per hour.

Tenure-track Assistant Professor in Health Intervention & Implementation Science within the Departme

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

University of Virginia
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
The University of Virginia (UVA) Department of Public Health Sciences (PHS), the UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the Community Cancer Control and Obesity Research Center (CORC) are seeking applicants for a tenure-eligible faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor within the division of Health Intervention & Implementation Science. The candidate will develop and lead a multidisciplinary research program along with contributing to team science collaboration in support of the department's and center's mission. The CORC has been extremely successful in developing, testing, and implementing effective obesity- and cancer prevention and control-related interventions and has the opportunity to strategically grow its number of faculty to complement current center expertise. To that end, the successful candidate for this PHS/CORC position will preferably conduct community-based research and education focused on physical activity. The successful applicant must be motivated, independent and highly organized, with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Finally, the successful applicant will have teaching and service responsibilities, and is expected to participate in appropriate national and international organizations.
PHS offers a vibrant academic home with access to support services for research. The department provides comprehensive and multi-disciplinary scientific and analytical services to the University of Virginia School of Medicine through its Divisions of Biostatistics & Health Data Science; Health Evaluation & Outcomes Science; and Health Intervention & Implementation Science. The Department offers two master degrees, an MS in Clinical Research and an MPH. Successful candidates will contribute to the design and implementation of the graduate education curriculum; teach intermediate and advanced graduate level methods courses, conduct research, and advance scholarship in their area of expertise. More information about PHS is available at https://med.virginia.edu/phs.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
Education: Ph.D., or other doctoral degree, in exercise science, public health or a related field.
Experience:
  • Expertise in the design and implementation of community-based clinical trials focused on physical activity, preferably in settings such as schools, places of worship, or other community organizations.

  • A record of peer-reviewed publications

  • Proven track record of extramural funding from NIH or similar funding agencies

Preferred Requirements
  • A strong record of peer-reviewed publications

  • Active extramural funding from NIH or similar funding agencies

  • Mentoring experience at the undergraduate and graduate level

Application Instructions
Complete an application online with the following documents:
  • CV

  • Cover letter

  • Research and Teaching Statements

  • Contact information for at least 3 references

Applications that do not contain all required documents will not receive full consideration.
The selected candidate will undergo a background check and health screening.

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819