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Physics Professor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Engineering, Research / Scientific The research group of Professor Hongliang Xin (xingroup.org) at ... The successful candidate will contribute to building AI-native frameworks that combine physics ...

LSU AgCenter

Instructor of Chemistry

Alexandria, VA

Academic The Department of Chemistry and Physics at Louisiana State University at Alexandria invites applications for a full-time tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Chemistry. This is a 9 ...

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Physics Professor information

See Virginia salary details

$70.4K

$109K

$123.9K

How much do physics professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics professor in Virginia is $108,958.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $122,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are physics professors in demand?

Physics professors are in steady demand in academic institutions, research organizations, and government labs, especially those with advanced degrees and research experience. Employment opportunities depend on funding, institutional needs, and specialization areas, with competition often high for tenure-track positions.

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.

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 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 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.

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 publication record.

How much does a physics professor make?

Physics professors' salaries vary based on experience, education, and institution type, but the average annual salary in many regions ranges from $70,000 to $150,000. Senior faculty or those at research universities may earn higher, especially with additional research funding or administrative roles.
More about Physics Professor jobs
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What job categories do people searching Physics Professor jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Professor jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Physics Professor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Physics Professor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Physics Professor jobs in VA? For Physics Professor jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Physics Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Professor job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,958 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Physics

LSU AgCenter

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

About Us:

Louisiana State University of Alexandria is a publicly supported institution that provides undergraduate level college education to the citizens of Central Louisiana. The university is a unit of the LSU System and operates under the auspices of the Louisiana Board of Regents. LSUA is located in Rapides Parish.

All Job Postings will close at 12:01a.m. CST (1:01a.m. EST) on the specified Closing Date (if designated).If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application progress will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through "My Draft Applications" located on your Candidate Home page.Job Posting Title:Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of PhysicsPosition Type:FacultyDepartment:LSUA ASA - Mathematics and Physical Sciences (Nathan J Sammons (00007928))Work Location:LSU - AlexandriaPay Grade:AcademicJob Description:

Job Posting Title: Assistant Professor of Physics (Tenure Track)


Job Description:


The Department of Chemistry and Physics at Louisiana State University at Alexandria invites applications for a full-time tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Physics. This is a 9-month position to begin in August 2026. This position focuses on providing high quality instruction in undergraduate physics and physical science courses both on campus and online.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field with teaching experience in College Physics.


Responsibilities: Typical duties include but are not limited to:

  • Develops and teaches lecture and laboratory courses in both physics and physical science as assigned, both in-person and online.
  • Maintain high standards of instruction and utilize innovative teaching methods to support student success.
  • Mentors undergraduate students in research projects.
  • Maintains high standards of instruction.
  • Regularly keeps office hours and is receptive to students both in person and electronically.
  • Actively serves on university committees and participates in institutional meetings.
  • Contributes to curriculum development and review processes to ensure alignment with academic goals.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

This position entails sixty percent teaching, twenty percent scholarly activities, and twenty percent community/university service.


Application Instructions:

Please submit application, uploading the following as a single PDF: (1) cover letter, (2) CV that includes contact information for three references, (3) teaching philosophy, (4) short statement on research interests and how you would incorporate undergraduate students, (5) unofficial transcripts.
Official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and background check are required before a candidate can be hired.
For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or other details about the position, please contact humanresources@lsua.edu.

Additional Job Description:Competencies:NoneSpecial Instructions:Application Instructions:
Please attach a Resume/CV, a cover letter, 3 references and unofficial transcripts. Official transcripts will be required upon hire.
Please attach all transcripts to your application. A background check is required for hire.
Questions or concerns about your application should be directed to LSUA Human Resources at (318) 473-6401 or hr@lsua.edu.

Skills Needed:

Preferred Skills:

Posting Date:July 13, 2026Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):October 11, 2026Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSUA offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

Essential Position (Y/N):LSUA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.HCM Contact Information:

Questions or concerns can be directed to the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 318-473-6401 or emailed hr@lsua.edu

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