Positions: The Department of Physics at Truman State University, a top-ranked public liberal arts and sciences university, has one full-time, tenure track appointment beginning August 2021. The Department is in the process of expanding our astronomy course offerings and adding an Astronomy/Astrophysics track to our major. Ideal candidates will be able to teach both introductory and advanced courses in physics and astronomy, and provide high-quality research experiences for undergraduates. 

Responsibilities: Teaching a range of introductory and advanced undergraduate physics and astronomy courses; conducting research and scholarship involving undergraduate students (startup funds are available); academic advising of physics majors; service to the department, school, and university.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or related field. (ABD candidates will be considered with an expected Ph.D. completion within one year of the start date.)

Candidates will be evaluated on:

• Ability to teach a wide range of courses in Truman’s undergraduate physics curriculum, including undergraduate astronomy courses
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness
• Academic qualifications
• A record of research in physics, astronomy, or related fields
• Potential to involve undergraduates in research program
• Experience and/or commitment to serving a diverse population of students, including students underrepresented in physics and astronomy
• Prior experience and/or commitment to teaching at a primarily undergraduate, liberal arts institution
• Effective communication skills
• Compatibility with departmental needs

Salary:  Salary is commensurate with experience. Truman offers an attractive benefits package including life, health, and disability insurance.  

Program: The Department of Physics is part of the School of Science and Mathematics at Truman State University. The department has 6 faculty members and approximately 80 undergraduate majors. Teaching and research laboratories, classrooms, and offices are located in the science building on campus. The Truman State Observatory is located at a semi-rural location on the University farm, about 2 miles southwest of the main campus. The fully automated and remotely operable observatory is equipped with a 17-inch Planewave telescope, several SBIG CCD cameras with standard filters, a weather station, and a cloud sensor. The observatory is used for astronomy research, for introductory labs and advanced observational astronomy classes, and for public outreach. For more information about the Physics Department, please visit  physics.truman.edu.

The University: Truman State University is home to a vibrant educational community. The approximately 5,200 students that make up its student body are well prepared for the academic rigors of a highly selective university. More than 20 percent engage in significant undergraduate research and creative projects. Most gain leadership experience, and nearly half go on to graduate school or professional education within a year of earning a degree. 

Founded in 1867, Truman is known for its focus on student learning and outcomes, and places an emphasis on high-impact experiences such as internships, research and study abroad opportunities. Truman has the highest overall graduation rate among Missouri public four-year colleges and universities. For more than two decades, Truman has been recognized as the No. 1 public university in the Midwest regional category by U.S. News & World Report. The Washington Monthly has included Truman in the top ten of its master’s university rankings in each of the past seven years. For more information regarding additional rankings and acknowledgements, visit truman.edu/about.

Located in northeast Missouri, Kirksville is a cultural and economic hub in the region. In addition to Truman, it is home to A.T. Still University, the world’s first osteopathic medical school, as well as a dental school and a community college. The Kirksville School District is among the best in the state, and the community takes pride in several annual events including the Red Barn Arts and Crafts Festival, the Scottish Highland Games and the Red, White and Blue Festival, among many more. Just a few minutes outside of town is beautiful Thousand Hills State Park, with hiking and biking opportunities surrounding the 700-acre Forest Lake. Due to its location, Kirksville offers easy access by car to Kansas City, St. Louis, Chicago and Des Moines. Daily flights from Kirksville regional airport to St. Louis allow for quick access to one of the Midwest’s major metropolitan areas. More information about Kirksville can be found at www.kirksvillechamber.com. 

Application:  The application process is handled by the School of Science and Mathematics. Electronic submission of applications is preferred and the process can be completed at http://employment.truman.edu/.  Application materials may also be submitted to hrstaff@truman.edu or by mail to Truman State University, Office of Human Resources, 100 E. Normal MC 101, Kirksville, MO 63501.  Completed applications must include a letter of application that clearly addresses the qualifications and points of evaluation listed above; statement of teaching philosophy; statement of research interests and plans; current curriculum vitae; contact information for three references; and unofficial (or official) graduate college transcripts.  

Review of applications will begin on March 29, 2021 and continue until the position is filled. If hired, applicants must provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States, official graduate transcripts, or documentation of degrees if transcripts are not available. Final candidates will be expected to undergo and successfully pass a background check.

Truman State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff.  Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.  In compliance with applicable laws and in furtherance of its commitment to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity, Truman State does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or protected veteran status in its program or activities, including employment, admissions, and educational programs.  Inquiries may be directed to the Institutional Compliance Officer, 660-785-4354 and titleix@truman.edu.

Truman State is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.  To request this document in an alternate form or to request an accommodation, please contact Human Resources, McClain Hall 101,  100 E. Normal, Kirksville, MO  63501, 660-785-4031 or hrstaff@truman.edu.