Adjunct Instructor – Physics

Duquesne University: BSNES:
Department of Physics Position Summary

The Department of Physics at Duquesne University is seeking applications for an adjunct instructor position to teach physics of sound and general principles of acoustics. This course serves a diverse group of approximately 20 undergraduate students, with majors predominantly in music or speech language pathology.

Physical principles underlying the production, propagation, and perception of sound. Examples of the principles are drawn mostly from the world of musical sound. No mathematical preparation beyond high school algebra is necessary. However, experience playing a musical instrument is required, and knowledge of musical scales is recommended.

• Teach one section of the course during the spring semester.
• Develop and deliver engaging lectures, demonstrations, and hands‑on activities.
• Assess student performance through assignments, exams, and projects.
• Maintain regular office hours and provide academic support to students.
• Collaborate with department faculty to ensure curriculum alignment.

• Degree in a discipline related to acoustics and the physics of sound.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience teaching at the college level is preferred.
• Background in music (formal or informal) is highly desirable.

• Ability to connect scientific concepts to musical applications.
• Enthusiasm for working with students from diverse musical backgrounds.
• Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) or music production tools is a plus.

Duquesne University was founded in 1878 by its sponsoring religious community, the Congregation of the Holy Spirit. Duquesne University is Catholic in mission and ecumenical in spirit. Motivated by its Catholic identity, Duquesne values equality of opportunity both as an educational institution and as an employer.