Lecturer - Astronomy

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued-and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.

Job Summary

The Department of Astronomy at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a full-time non-tenure track Lecturer with expertise in teaching Astronomy. This is an academic year, benefited 2-year position that is renewable contingent upon performance, including eligibility for a full-time continuing appointment after four years of service.

We seek a dynamic educator who will contribute to our undergraduate teaching mission through high-quality instruction, innovative pedagogy, and active engagement with students. The successful candidate will teach a combination of introductory and upper-level astronomy courses, help supervise active learning laboratories, and contribute to departmental initiatives that promote experiential and inclusive learning in astronomy and astrophysics.

This person will also perform service in support of the mission and goals of the Department and College. The University invests in our faculty's continued professional growth through the Center for Teaching and Learning. Lecturers at the University of Massachusetts are unionized with the potential for long-term careers with promotional advancement within the Lecturer ranks. Lecturers are also eligible to apply for numerous professional development grants and fellowships through the University and College of Natural Sciences (https://www.umass.edu/faculty-development/awards-recognition/professional-development-fellowships).

Essential Functions

• Teach undergraduate courses in astronomy, including introductory general education courses and intermediate/advanced courses for majors.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of laboratory and observational components, including use of the department's telescopes and teaching observatory.
• Engage in curriculum development that promotes active learning, student engagement, and access in the classroom.
• Mentor undergraduate students and participate in departmental academic activities and events.
• Contribute to departmental service, including outreach, admission committees, mentoring, and curricular management and development.

Other Functions

• Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
• Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean's strategic priorities.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• A Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field by the time of appointment.
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching at the college level.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment.

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

• Experience in developing or teaching laboratory or project-based courses.
• Demonstrated use of innovative or research-based teaching methods.
• Experience supervising undergraduate research or observational projects.
• Interest in supporting departmental efforts in public outreach, student recruitment, and inclusive excellence initiatives.

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

• Typical office and classroom environment.
• Some evening observing or laboratory sessions may be required.

Additional Details

The Department of Astronomy at UMass Amherst is part of the Five College Astronomy Department (FCAD), a unique consortium that fosters collaboration and resource sharing among UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, and Hampshire College. The successful applicant will have opportunities to participate in FCAD-wide activities and initiatives.

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday, typically 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, with occasional evening sessions for observing or outreach activities.

Salary Information

It is expected that the salary range for this position is between $65,550 and $127,607.

Please note:

• The low-end of the pay range in all faculty searches at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is the minimum salary for the rank included in the collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Massachusetts Society of Professors, UMass Amherst/MTA/NEA.
• The high-end of the pay range reflects an increase above the median of salaries at this rank within the department for faculty who may have multiple years of faculty experience.
• The specific pay for this position will be determined by the University based on consideration of all relevant factors when and if it decides to extend and offer of employment.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a continuous basis until the position is filled. Early submissions are encouraged.

At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. You can find these values and goals at: Inclusive Excellence : College of Natural Sciences : UMass Amherst, and For the Common Good - 2024-2034 : Strategic Plan : UMass Amherst.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.