The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Michigan State University (MSU) invites applications for a fixed-term position as an Assistant Professsor in physics for the 2023-2024 academic year, starting August 15, 2023. The central responsibility of this position will be to teach courses in introductory physics for life science majors, using a studio-physics based curriculum focused on topics and applications for cellular and molecular biology. The candidate will work with a team of tenure-stream and fixed-term faculty to coordinate and teach multiple sections of the courses and to foster an inclusive community of learners. The candidate will also be encouraged to participate in the broader intellectual life of the department, which recently received the Improving Undergraduate Physics Education Award from the American Physical Society.  A PhD in physics or related field at the time of the start of the position is required. Previous experience teaching introductory physics as the instructor of record, experience with active learning techniques, some familiarity with molecular and cellular biology (either through course work or research), and a commitment to diversity equity and inclusion are also desirable. The appointment will be for the 2023-2024 academic year, with additional work and pay available in the summer of 2024 if desired. The appointment is potentially renewable for additional years based on department needs and satisfactory performance.

Applications should be submitted through the MSU hiring website (http://careers.msu.edu) posting #773852. Applicants should include (1) a cover letter; (2) a CV including teaching experience; (3) a one-page statement of teaching experience and philosophy; (4) one example of a lesson plan in an introductory physics course (no more than 2 pages); (5) a one-page statement of your experience fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in previous professional settings, and how you plan to contribute in these areas at MSU as part of this position; and (6) the names and contact information for three references, who may be contacted. Please include all information in a single PDF file. Review of applications will begin on March 20, 2023 and will continue until the position is filled; all applications received by this date will receive full consideration.

Questions may be directed to Prof. Lisa Lapidus (lapidus@msu.edu) and more information about the curriculum can be found at https://pa.msu.edu/profile/lapidus. MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer and is committed to achieving excellence through diversity. The University actively encourages applications from women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.