The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Iowa invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in observational astronomy/astrophysics. The successful candidate is expected to begin in Fall 2024. In 1951, James Van Allen joined the Department as head and set a primary emphasis on space-based research.  The current astrophysics group has active research programs in the areas of observational extragalactic and Galactic astronomy, X-ray and UV instrumentation, and theoretical and observational stellar astrophysics. Applications are welcomed from candidates specializing in various domains of observational astronomy/astrophysics. The Department places particular emphasis on recruiting an observational astronomer whose research extensively employs space-based instruments, aiming to strengthen its historical expertise in space-based studies.

The successful candidate is expected to build an independent, externally funded research program, and to be an effective and supportive teacher and research mentor of undergraduate and graduate students. The successful candidate is also expected to provide service to the department, college, and university, and to help support the department’s commitment to advancing diversity and equity. 

Required qualifications include a PhD degree in astronomy/astrophysics or closely related discipline, a strong commitment to effective teaching and mentoring students, a strong potential to develop an internationally recognized research program, good communication skills, and experience with strategies for fostering a welcoming and inclusive learning environment. Desirable qualifications include an established publication record, postdoctoral research experience, student advising experience, and potential research collaborations with the current faculty. 

The University of Iowa is a leading public university located in Iowa City, a midsize community and UNESCO City of Literature with a high quality of life. It is the host of the Writers’ Workshop, Hancher Auditorium, and the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Informal inquiries about the position can be directed to Hai Fu (hai-fu@uiowa.edu ), with the subject line “Observational Astronomy Faculty Search.” To apply, please visit the submission website Jobs@UIowa at https://jobs.uiowa.edu/content/faculty/  and refer to requisition 74846. Materials should be submitted electronically, including a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, research statement, teaching statement that includes how the candidate has fostered an inclusive and equitable learning environment, and email contact information for three letters of recommendation. Note that references will be automatically contacted through the Jobs@UIowa application system and prompted to submit a letter of reference/recommendation electronically. The review of applicants will begin on November 28, 2023 and will continue until the position is filled. 

The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences.

Online Application Required Documents:

Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Interest
Statement of Research
Statement of Teaching
Number of References: 3

Letters of Recommendation are required as part of the application process. Upon submission, references selected will be notified by e-mail with directions on how to electronically submit letters to the University of Iowa. 

• PhD degree in astronomy/astrophysics or closely related discipline.

• Strong commitment to effective teaching and mentoring students.


• Strong potential to develop an internationally recognized research program.


• Good communication skills.


• Experience with strategies for fostering a welcoming and inclusive working and learning environment. 

• An established publication record.


• Postdoctoral research experience.


• Student advising experience.


• Potential research collaborations with the current faculty.

To start the Online Application process for this position, click the "Apply for This Position" button located below the Contact Information.