Job Description

Title: Physics Lab Instructor

Position Number: 999561

Unit/Department: Physics/College of Arts & Sciences

FTE: Full-time (10 Months)

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience

Department Summary:

The mission of Drake University's Physics Department is to provide students with a rigorous foundation in physics, equipping them with the scientific knowledge and quantitative skills necessary for careers in physics and related fields. We foster a collaborative and engaging learning environment through hands-on laboratory experiences, interactive coursework, and close student-faculty relationships.

To learn more about the Physics Department, visit: https://www.drake.edu/physics/

The Physics Lab Instructor will be responsible for teaching algebra-based and calculus-based physics laboratory sections, as well as leading algebra-based physics discussion sections. We seek candidates who are knowledgeable, engaging, and dedicated to providing a rigorous and supportive learning experience for students. Responsibilities include teaching assigned laboratory and discussion sections, preparing teaching materials, and assessing student learning.

Minimum Qualifications:

Baccalaureate degree in Physics or a closely related field — knowledge of physics principles and techniques normally obtained through a four-year college/university academic program, and strong laboratory skills in physics.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Post-graduate degree in Physics or closely related field.

• Experience teaching at a college, university or high school, especially in a laboratory setting.

Job Duties:

• 30% - Teach laboratory courses and discussion in accordance with course syllabi, furnished procedures and instructions provided during weekly faculty/staff meetings. Interact with students both within and outside the instructional setting in a professional manner. Follow, communicate, and consistently enforce laboratory safety policies during all laboratory periods.
• 20% - Prepare laboratory materials, complete experiments before each class and attend lecture. Promote student understanding of laboratory experiments and stimulate students' intellectual growth by assisting them during laboratory periods in proper procedures and practices and providing guidance rather than giving answers. Perform and help students perform accurate and precise laboratory measurements.
• 20% - Set up and maintain equipment / laboratory as needed.
• 15% - Conduct on-going evaluation and prepare grade reports of student progress and maintain records of student course/class performance.
• 10% - Maintain office hours and assist students with laboratory and other course related information. Maintain e-mail communication with students.
• 5% - Foster a cooperative work environment and perform other duties as assigned.

Salary and Benefits:

At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts. If you are exploring a job with Drake University, we invite you to spend a little time with our Drake Benefits Guide 2026 One of our popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children. Tuition Benefits

Special Instructions to Applicants:

For consideration, you must apply online. Please include a resume and cover letter.

If you have any questions about this job positing or the application process, please email ryan.sturms@drake.edu

Review of Applications Begins:

A review of applications will begin immediately. This position will remain open until filled.