Southwestern University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Applied Physics (with a specialization in Engineering) to begin in August 2025. Candidates must possess a Ph.D. in Mechanical or Civil Engineering or a closely related field. ABD candidates will be considered, but the degree must be completed by August 1, 2025. All research areas will be considered. The University’s standard teaching load is five courses each year along with departmental responsibilities, advising and university service.

The Physics Department will serve as the home department for this position. Candidates will be expected to teach introductory-level Physics and Engineering courses and upper-level Engineering courses. Opportunities will exist for the candidate to develop a course in their specific area of interest. Preference will be given to candidates who can teach Thermodynamics, Systems Design and Control Systems. Candidates must be committed to excellence in teaching undergraduate courses and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Interested candidates should possess a/an:

• Willingness and aptitude for teaching and utilizing technology in the classroom
• Laboratory teaching experience
• Desire to develop an on campus standalone research program and to work collaboratively on research projects with undergraduate students
• Ability to initiate and supervise interdisciplinary, applied projects and research in the applicant’s field of professional interest

The Physics Department and Southwestern University are committed to recruiting candidates who both excel in teaching and research/creative work and can best serve our diverse student population. As of the spring 2024 semester, 38% of students enrolled at Southwestern were members of groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education and we are committed to further increasing and supporting the diversity of our students, faculty, and curriculum. The Department seeks candidates who have a demonstrated commitment to, and will take an active role in, enhancing diversity, inclusion, and equity across the University, including fostering a sense of community and belonging for students. In your application materials, please include specific and detailed information about how you have worked to enhance diversity and inclusion through your teaching practices, research, and/or service experiences within the college or university setting.

To apply, candidates should submit the following information to Interfolio apply.interfolio.com/149841:

• a curriculum vitae
• a cover letter
• a brief statement of teaching philosophy
• a statement of research interests that includes how undergraduates can be involved in your research
• three letters of reference, at least two of which should address teaching aptitude

Email and paper applications will not be accepted. Applications will be reviewed beginning September 30, and will continue until the position is filled. Any questions should be addressed to the search committee chair, Dr. Steve Alexander (alexands@southwestern.edu).

Southwestern University (Georgetown, Texas) is a selective undergraduate residential liberal arts institution located in the greater Austin area. Established in 1840, Southwestern enrolls approximately 1,500 students and maintains a student–faculty ratio of 11 to 1. The university provides a highly interdisciplinary and holistic education that values high-impact learning experiences, such as study abroad, internships, and faculty-student research. A member of the recently formed Liberal Arts Colleges Racial Equity Leadership Alliance, Southwestern is committed to fostering a diverse educational environment and encourages applications from members of groups traditionally underrepresented in academia. Additional information about the university can be found at our website: www.southwestern.edu.

Southwestern University is committed to inclusive excellence that provides access and support, enables participation, and removes barriers so that all people within our community are empowered and can thrive in a campus that is welcoming and validating. Inclusion is the deliberate effort to create an environment in which people from all backgrounds - including but not limited to people of color (race, ethnicity, nationality), sex, sexual identity, gender identity, age, physical and mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, religion, immigrants, and the intersection of these identities - are not only included but welcomed, valued, respected, considered, and supported within our community. People from marginalized (i.e., devalued) and/or minoritized (i.e, underrepresented) groups are heard, seen, respected and accepted in all aspects of our community.

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time appointment begins. Sponsorship for an employment-based visa may be an option depending upon university needs and the applicant’s qualifications.

All offers of employment are contingent on successful completion of the University’s Background Check Policy process. Southwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Southwestern University is an E-Verify Employer. EOE/M/F

Inclusion is the deliberate effort to create an environment in which people from all backgrounds* are not only included but welcomed, valued, respected, considered, and supported within our community. People from marginalized (i.e., devalued) and/or minoritized (i.e, underrepresented) groups are heard, seen, respected and accepted in all aspects of our community. Southwestern University is committed to inclusive excellence that provides access and support, enables participation, and removes barriers so that all people within our community are empowered and can thrive in a campus that is welcoming and validating.

*including but not limited to people of color (race, ethnicity, nationality), sex, sexual identity, gender identity, age, physical and mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, religion, immigrants, and the intersection of these identities.

Jeanne Clery Statement: Notice of Availability of Annual Security and Fire Safety Report— Southwestern University Annual Safety and Fire Report is available online at https://www.southwestern.edu/life-at-southwestern/safety-security/annual-security-reports/ containing mandated information about current campus policies concerning safety and security issues, required statistics, and other related information for the past three calendar years. To obtain a paper copy of the report, please call 512-863-1435.