Astronomy Education Postdoctoral Fellow

Join to apply for the Astronomy Education Postdoctoral Fellow role at Frostburg State University
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Astronomy Education Postdoctoral Fellow. Frostburg State University (FSU) is poised to become a regional leader in astronomy education and outreach with the reopening of its upgraded planetarium in Spring 2026. We invite applications for a full‑time, exempt Fellow with an anticipated start of July 1, 2026. This three‑year appointment is contingent on a successful first‑year performance evaluation and grant funding. The position will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, and the successful candidate will receive a partial University System of Maryland benefits package, a $6,000 annual research budget, and the opportunity to advance FSUs mission through innovative STEM outreach, high‑quality teaching, and original research.

• Planetarium Support (41% workload, overlapping with teaching and research). Includes K-12 STEM outreach, custom planetarium curriculum for local schools, and assisting the director in producing and hosting planetarium shows and events.
• Research and Service (33% workload). Develop and pursue an independent research agenda in astronomy education, aim for at least one peer‑reviewed publication per year (conference presentations count), and at least one refereed journal article by the end of the fellowship. Integrate undergraduates into research, mentor education majors, and collaborate with faculty in the Departments of Physical and Environmental Sciences and Education.
• Teaching (26% workload). Instruct undergraduate courses, including Introduction to Astronomy (3‑credit lecture + 2‑credit lab, lecture uses planetarium) in the fall and Physical Science (6‑credit integrated lecture and lab, with some planetarium components) in the spring. Courses are primarily intended for education majors.

• Recent graduate or ABD with a PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or Education (with at least a Masters in Science Teaching or extensive science‑teaching experience if the PhD is in Education).
• At least two years of teaching experience.
• Ability to develop an independent research program that includes undergraduate students.

• Demonstrated experience researching science curriculum, preferably astronomy.
• Experience in informal STEM education (e.g., museums, planetariums, science centers).
• Evidence of outreach and public engagement activities.

To apply:

https://maryland

Along with your application, please provide the following:
1) CV,
2) Cover letter,
3) Research statement,
4) Teaching statement, and
5) Names and contact information for three professional references.

Please submit your materials by January 31, 2026.