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Phd In Kinesiology Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Phd In Kinesiology information

See Alabama salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do phd in kinesiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd in kinesiology in Alabama is $16.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.35 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in Kinesiology?

A PhD in Kinesiology is a doctoral degree focused on the study of human movement, physical activity, and its impact on health, performance, and society. This advanced program typically involves conducting original research, completing coursework in areas like biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor behavior, and writing a dissertation. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research, healthcare, or leadership roles within sports and wellness industries.

What types of career paths can a PhD in Kinesiology pursue within academia and beyond?

Earning a PhD in Kinesiology opens up a variety of career paths, both inside and outside academia. Within universities, graduates often work as professors, researchers, or academic advisors, contributing to research projects and teaching undergraduate or graduate courses. Outside academia, they may find opportunities in clinical research, exercise science, sports organizations, public health agencies, or private industry, where they can apply their expertise to areas such as human performance, biomechanics, or health promotion. Many professionals also collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, therapists, and educators, to advance knowledge and practice in human movement and wellness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Kinesiology, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD in Kinesiology, you need advanced knowledge in exercise science, research methodology, and data analysis, typically supported by a doctoral degree in kinesiology or a related field. Expertise with statistical software (such as SPSS or R), laboratory equipment, and peer-reviewed publishing platforms is crucial for research and academic contributions. Strong communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills set individuals apart in teaching, mentoring, and multidisciplinary work. These competencies enable meaningful research, effective knowledge transfer, and leadership in advancing the field of human movement science.

What is the difference between Phd In Kinesiology vs Kinesiologist?

AspectPhd In KinesiologyKinesiologist
Required CredentialsDoctorate degree (PhD)Bachelor's or Master's degree, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academic settingsClinics, sports facilities, rehabilitation centers
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutions, government agenciesHealthcare providers, sports teams, wellness centers
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic research, advanced study, teaching rolesRehabilitation, fitness assessment, client care

The main difference is that a Phd In Kinesiology focuses on research, teaching, and academic roles, requiring a doctorate degree. In contrast, a Kinesiologist typically works directly with clients in healthcare or sports settings, often with a bachelor's or master's degree. Both roles are integral to the field but serve different career paths and work environments.

How long is a PhD in kinesiology?

A PhD in kinesiology typically takes about 4 to 6 years to complete, depending on the program, research requirements, and whether the student is enrolled full-time. The program involves coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research culminating in a dissertation.

What can I do with a PhD in kinesiology?

A PhD in kinesiology prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, and advanced clinical roles related to human movement, sports science, and rehabilitation. Graduates often work as university professors, research scientists, sports performance consultants, or in healthcare settings, utilizing skills in data analysis, biomechanics, and exercise physiology.

What are popular job titles related to Phd In Kinesiology jobs in Alabama?

For Phd In Kinesiology jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Phd In Kinesiology jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Phd In Kinesiology job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd In Kinesiology job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,765 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Assistant/Associate Professor - Physical Therapy

Auburn University

Auburn University, AL • On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


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Job description

Salary Range: USD $100,000.00/Yr. - USD $160,000.00/Yr.

Locations: Auburn University, AL

Job Type: Faculty

Position Type: Full-Time

Department: School of Kinesiology

Associated Division: College of Education

Req ID: 9753

Overview

POSITION: Assistant/Associate Professor :

The Auburn University Physical Therapy (AUPT) Program in the School of Kinesiology seeks to hire two twelve-month tenure-track faculty members at the Assistant/Associate Professor rank with expertise in Physical Therapy (Anatomy, Orthopedics, Cardiorespiratory, Neurology, Pelvic Health) to begin in Spring/Summer 2027. These positions are a part of faculty members who will be hired at Auburn University and serve as the core faculty for the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program. The program's mission is to educate and train physical therapists emphasizing service among rural areas in Alabama and beyond.

The university's commitment to excellence is outlined in the Auburn University Strategic Plan ( https://ocm.auburn.edu/strategic_plan/ ). Review of applications will begin August 30th, 2026, and continue until the positions are filled.

If you are passionate about excellence and advocating for our communities, we invite you to apply to our developing DPT program. As a leader in the field, the School of Kinesiology has a long-standing commitment to creating an environment that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, and we are dedicated to maintaining this culture as we build our DPT program. Housed in the school, the developing DPT program seeks contributions from those of different specialties who represent and advocate for the communities we serve. Auburn University is a land-grant university and houses the College of Nursing, Nutritional Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Speech-Language Pathology, Human Development and Family Science, and College of Veterinary Medicine. The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine also resides on the Auburn campus and actively partners with colleges across the university. Interprofessional education is a strong foundation at AUPT with faculty and students training together as an interprofessional team across the curriculum. In addition, AUPT will host a faculty practice teaching clinic for students and faculty to practice and treat many of our communities' most vulnerable populations. The DPT program is home to a high-tech anatomy simulation lab, two state-of-the-art clinical classrooms, and a dedicated active learning studio/classroom. Our curriculum is grounded in our mission and designed to produce competent and compassionate clinical physical therapists and to improve the health and well-being of all individuals through evidence-based practice, innovation, and advocacy.

The DPT program was granted Candidate for Accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) in May 2025. On our current timeline, the developing program will receive initial accreditation in the spring of 2028. The program has currently matriculated its first and second cohorts (classes of 2028 & 29) and is accepting applications for its third cohort to matriculate in summer 2027.

APPLICATION : Priority review of applications will begin 30 th August 2026. Applications should be submitted through Auburn University's online system. Please use the following link to submit application materials - XXXX

A complete application should include the following required documents:

  • Cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position. Please describe how your academic concentration will advance the strategic mission of the Physical Therapy Program, School of Kinesiology and Auburn University

  • Current Curriculum Vitae

  • Teaching philosophy statement, including commitment to excellence in the classroom.

  • Statement of Research and/or goals, including commitment to excellence in research.

  • Three (3) professional references with contact information, title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers.

  • Unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts (official transcripts required upon hire).

  • Note: Please submit items in a single PDF

General inquiries may be directed to Harsimran S. Baweja PT PhD ( hsb0025@auburn.edu ) , Search Committee Chair & Program Director of Physical Therapy.

Auburn University is understanding of and sensitive to the family needs of faculty, including dual-career couples. More Information can be found by announcements provided by the AU Provost's Office (https://www.auburn.edu/academic/provost/policies-guidelines/policies/dual-career-services.php) .

As part of its commitment to a safe community, AU requires that individuals seeking faculty employment provide at the time of application authorization to conduct background checks if they become a finalist for the position; applications without this authorization will be considered incomplete and not considered.

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed before any candidate can be offered a position with AU. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current AU employees who apply for the position.

Responsibilities

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Engage in rigorous research resulting in scholarly publications, preferably peer-reviewed journal articles in prestigious outlets.

  • Teach entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy courses in support of the program.

  • Advise and mentor graduate students.

  • Direct student research including projects, theses, and dissertations.

  • Participate in the planning and implementation of curricular changes for the program and school.

  • Provide institutional service as assigned by the department head and engage in professional service within the discipline.

  • Participate in professional activities as needed to ensure the well-being of the program, school, and college.

The successful candidate must meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time the appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the term of employment.

STARTING DATE : No earlier than January 1, 2027 and no later than May 16, 2027

SALARY : Competitive and commensurate with experience; excellent health benefits and retirement package.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS :

  • Physical Therapist with terminal academic doctorate degree (e.g. PhD, EdD, DSc) at the time of employment.

  • Licensed or eligible for PT licensure in Alabama at the time of employment.

  • Experience or demonstrated potential to teach graduate courses.

  • Record of research in Physical Therapy and contemporary scholarship, practice expertise and teaching experience in women's health, cardio-pulmonary therapeutics, neurological rehabilitation, pediatrics with anatomy, biomechanics/ kinesiology/ movement science, and/or applied neuroscience/electrophysiology practice environments, and other areas of contemporary expertise.

  • Evidence of extramural support or of demonstrated potential to be successful in securing extramural support.

  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills.

  • Scholarly publications in peer-reviewed journals.

  • Commitment to the values and priorities of the College of Education (College of Education Strategic Plan 2035 | College of Education (https://education.auburn.edu/about/strat-plan/index.php) )

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS :

  • Post-doctoral training.

  • History of extramural grant funding.

  • Experience teaching in a DPT program.

  • Board certification or exceptional clinical experience.

  • Record of advising, engaging, and mentoring DPT and PhD students.

  • Record of collaboration across the department, university, and/or the field of physical therapy higher education.

  • Professional experience in the field of physical therapy higher education.

  • Demonstrated ability to engage in physical therapy education program design activities (e.g., curriculum redesign, course design, administrative tasks).

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

na

Contract Type

Continuing

Why Work at Auburn?

  • Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.

  • Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.

  • We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.

  • Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.

  • A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website (https://auburn.edu/administration/eoc/) to learn more.


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