Assistant Professor of Physics; Tenure-Track

Position: Assistant Professor of Physics (Tenure-Track)
Location: Itta Bena

Posting Details

Position Information

Position Title
Assistant Professor of Physics (Tenure-Track)

Job Description

Position Summary

The Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health (NSEH) at Mississippi Valley State University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor faculty position in Physics, beginning August 10, 2026. The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching undergraduate physics and chemistry courses, supporting general science instruction, developing an active research program, mentoring undergraduate students, and contributing to departmental service and accreditation-related activities.

The department seeks a committed educator and scholar who can engage students through effective teaching, promote undergraduate research, and contribute to the growth of the department's academic and research programs.

Primary Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Teach undergraduate Physics courses, as well as other general science courses such as General Chemistry and Survey of Physical Science, as needed.
• Develop and maintain an active research program in Physics, Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field, with meaningful undergraduate student involvement.
• Serve as an academic advisor for undergraduate students in the department.
• Write and submit research and educational grant proposals to support scholarly, instructional, and student-centered activities.
• Contribute to departmental service, including committee participation, accreditation assessment, preparation of departmental documents, and other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must have:

• A Ph.D. in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated ability or strong potential to teach undergraduate Physics and general science courses.
• Evidence of scholarly potential and the ability to develop an undergraduate-focused research program.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to excellence in teaching, advising, mentoring, and service.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidates who have:

• Ability to teach Physical Chemistry.
• Postdoctoral research experience.
• Experience teaching and/or developing courses in Physics, Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or general science.
• Commitment to mentoring and supporting a diverse student population.
• Potential to seek and secure external funding for research, education, or program development.
• Experience involving undergraduate students in research or scholarly projects.

Physical Demands

Posting Detail Information

Posting Number
SF891P

Open Date
05/14/2026

Close Date

Open Until Filled
Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

Application Instructions:

Applicants should submit:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Graduate transcripts from all institutions attended
• Statement of teaching philosophy
• Research statement with plans for undergraduate engagement
• Three letters recommendation

Application review will begin as materials are received and continue until the position is filled

Mississippi Valley State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from candidates committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment