Job Description

About the Job

The Minnesota Institute of Astrophysics (MIfA) within the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Minnesota invites applications for a tenure-track or tenured faculty member in Astrophysics, to begin August 2026. The Institute has identified a particular strategic need in stellar astrophysics, but we are conducting a broad search spanning all areas of astrophysics. The intended rank is Assistant Professor, but applications at a more senior level will also be considered.

MIfA faculty have a broad range of research interests that include: solar, space, and planetary physics, stellar astrophysics, extragalactic astronomy, gravitational wave detection, dark matter particle searches, time domain and multi-messenger astronomy, and cosmology. Further details may be found at https://cse.umn.edu/mifa.

The successful candidate will have access to our facilities which include a share of the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT), the 1.5 m Mt. Lemmon Observing Facility, and access to the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute.

We are searching for someone to conduct a vigorous and significant research program and to teach effectively at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Candidates are expected to hold a Ph.D. in physics or astrophysics and should demonstrate their potential to perform those functions. The candidate should be dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, and should be committed to working well with others.

This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship

Qualifications

A Ph.D. in astrophysics or a closely related field is required

About the Department

Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics: https://cse.umn.edu/mifa

School of Physics and Astronomy: https://cse.umn.edu/physics

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $108,150 - $114,313 (Assistant Professor); depending on education/qualifications/experience

$120,886 - $144,624 (Associate Professor); depending on education/qualifications/experience

$121,000- $195,548 (Full Professor); depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position.

Required materials are:

• A one-page cover letter
• A Curriculum Vitae including a list of publications, contributed and invited talks, awards, accepted and pending proposals for funding/resources, teaching/ mentoring roles, and leadership positions
• A Research Statement (3 - 5 pages) describing past and current research as well as plans for future research including how they may intersect with current efforts at the University of Minnesota
• A Teaching Statement (up to 2 pages) describing your approach to and/or experience with classroom teaching and research mentoring
• Candidates should arrange for 3 letters of reference, signed and on official letterhead, sent directly via Interfolio.

All materials including letters of reference must be received by December 15, 2025 for full consideration, although applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu