1

Physics Professor Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

The Department of Physics & Astronomy at Oberlin College invites applications for a full-time tenure track faculty position in the College of Arts and Sciences in Physics, beginning fall of 2027. We ...

$68.51 - $102.76/hr

Qualifications Applicants must hold a university degree in physics (or equivalent), a PhD ... professorship. They should have an excellent record of high‑quality publications, proven ...

$79.93 - $114.18/hr

Qualifications Applicants must hold a university degree in physics (or equivalent), a PhD ... professorship. They should have an excellent record of high‑quality publications, proven ...

... Physics or equivalent degree * Minimum American Board of Radiology (ABR) certification eligible * Preferred PhD or equivalent degree and ABR certified * Assistant, Associate or Full Professor ...

Post Doctoral Scholar

Columbus, OH · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research team led by Professor Wolfgang ... D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related ...

Post Doctoral Scholar

Columbus, OH · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research team led by Professor Wolfgang ... D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related ...

Physics Professor information

See Ohio salary details

$67.5K

$104.5K

$118.8K

How much do physics professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics professor in Ohio is $104,482.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $117,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a physics professor do?

A physics professor offers instruction in physical science at a community college, four-year college, or university. As a professor, you can teach both undergraduate and graduate-level courses, depending on your qualifications. An associate professor (adjunct professor) works on a contract basis, while a faculty member with tenure has a career position at the university. Your duties in all physics teaching jobs include planning a syllabus for each class. You lecture, use exams to assess students’ knowledge, and oversee hands-on courses in a lab. At a university, your responsibilities include performing research and writing academic articles.

What does a physics professor do?

A Physics Professor is an academic professional who teaches physics courses at a college or university level. They design and deliver lectures, guide laboratory sessions, and assess students' understanding of various physics concepts. In addition to teaching, Physics Professors often conduct original research in their field, publish scholarly articles, and mentor students in their academic and research pursuits. They may also serve on academic committees and contribute to curriculum development within their department.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics Professor, you need deep subject expertise in physics, a relevant doctoral degree, and experience in academic research and teaching. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and learning management systems is typically required. Strong communication, mentorship, and critical thinking skills set outstanding professors apart in engaging and inspiring students. These combined abilities ensure effective teaching, meaningful research contributions, and the development of future scientists.

What are some common challenges physics professors face when balancing teaching and research responsibilities?

Physics Professors often juggle multiple priorities, including preparing lectures, grading, mentoring students, conducting research, and publishing findings. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging, especially during peak periods like exam seasons or grant deadlines. Effective time management and clear communication with colleagues and students are essential to maintain productivity and job satisfaction. Many institutions provide support such as teaching assistants or research staff to help manage workloads, but developing a strategic approach to scheduling and prioritizing is key.

What is the difference between Physics Professor vs Physics Lecturer?

AspectPhysics ProfessorPhysics Lecturer
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D.) in Physics or related fieldMaster's or Doctorate, depending on institution
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research institutions, academiaUniversities, colleges, sometimes high schools
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily higher education institutionsHigher education, sometimes vocational or community colleges
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for academic roles and career pathsCompared for teaching positions at various educational levels

The main difference between a Physics Professor and a Physics Lecturer lies in their academic credentials, responsibilities, and career paths. Physics Professors typically hold a Ph.D., engage in research, and have tenure, while Physics Lecturers may have a master's or doctorate and focus primarily on teaching. Both roles are vital in academia but differ in scope and expectations.

Are physics professors in demand?

Physics professors are in steady demand in academic institutions, research organizations, and government labs, especially those with expertise in emerging fields like quantum mechanics and renewable energy. Employment opportunities depend on research funding, academic tenure processes, and regional needs, with a strong emphasis on advanced degrees and research experience.

Do you need a PhD to be a physics professor?

Typically, a PhD in physics or a related field is required to become a university physics professor, as it demonstrates expertise and research experience. Some colleges may hire instructors with a master's degree for teaching-focused roles, but tenure-track positions usually demand a doctoral degree and a strong research record.

How much does a physics professor make?

Physics professors' salaries vary based on experience, institution type, and location, but typically range from $70,000 to over $150,000 annually. Professors with tenure, research responsibilities, and advanced degrees tend to earn higher salaries, often supplemented by research grants and consulting opportunities.

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Physics Professor jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Physics Professor job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Physics Professor jobs in OH?

For Physics Professor jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Physics Professor job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $104,482 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Physics

Physics Today

Oberlin, OH • On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Department of Physics & Astronomy at Oberlin College invites applications for a full-time tenure track faculty position in the College of Arts and Sciences in Physics, beginning fall of 2027. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in experimental condensed matter, materials, or applied physics, in part to support engineering-related initiatives. We will also consider candidates with other research specialties provided that they would support robust undergraduate research projects.

The Physics and Astronomy department graduates approximately 15 majors per year, with concentrations in either physics, astrophysics, or materials physics. The department has an authorized tenure/tenure-track faculty size of 7.5 full-time-equivalent. Faculty research interests include infrared molecular spectroscopy, novel magnetic nanomaterials, atomic physics, extragalactic chemical evolution & star formation, simulations of galaxy formation and supermassive black holes, numerical modeling of gravitational wave sources, and experimental particle physics. Approximately 80% of Oberlin’s Physics and Astronomy students do research during their time at Oberlin. This student research takes place during the semester, the summer, and Oberlin’s month-long Winter Term. Current faculty have a strong track record of maintaining external support, primarily through the RUI and MRI programs from the National Science Foundation.

The Department and the College actively support new faculty with mentoring and professional development opportunities, as well as research through startup support and internal grants for conference travel and student research stipends.

The incumbent will teach the standard teaching load (4.5 courses per year). Teaching assignments in our department typically span the entire undergraduate physics curriculum, including introductory and advanced courses for majors, lab courses as appropriate, and general-audience and seminar courses related to faculty interests.

The incumbent will also be expected to engage in sustained scholarly research and/or other creative work appropriate to the position and participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising, mentoring undergraduate research and service on committees. The Department and College actively support new faculty with mentoring and professional development opportunities, including a paid pre-tenure leave for those on the standard six-year track, startup support, and internal grants for conference travel and research.

#J-18808-Ljbffr