Adjunct Professor of Astronomy & Astrophysics

The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) is seeking applicants for a part-time position as adjunct online instructor of astronomy and astrophysics, starting in January 2027. The online courses to be taught are PHY 105 Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics (3 credit hours) and PHY 106 Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics Laboratory (1 credit hour).

The course satisfies both the University’s undergraduate general education laboratory science requirement and the astronomy requirement for the Elementary Education major. The University uses Canvas as its learning management system and does have instructional technologists to support online faculty.

The University of Pikeville strives to serve students – 35% of whom are first-generation, 99% of whom receive some form of financial aid, and 18% of whom are non-white at the undergraduate level – by making learning accessible and affordable. One of the University’s signature initiatives is Open Educational Resources, which provides no-cost course materials and alleviates the economic burden on students and their families. The University offers a range of support services to help new faculty members connect and succeed.

Responsibilities:

• Teaching the assigned course/s, uploading course materials to UPIKE’s learning management system, entering student grades, and adhering to all related deadlines and polices.
• Tutoring and mentoring students as needed.
• Regular and responsive communication with the Division Chair and Dean.

Education & skill requirements:

• A master’s degree and a minimum of 18 graduate hours in physics and/or astronomy is required. Applicants with ABD in physics/astronomy (minimum 30 hours) will also be considered.
• Experience: Demonstrated online teaching experience at the undergraduate level is desired.
• Professionalism: Ability to work effectively and professionally with students and colleagues.

Faculty Expectations: Note that the University of Pikeville recognizes that effective educators are themselves life-long learners. Adjunct faculty members are encouraged to attend our professional development workshops whenever possible to improve use of educational technology, determine ways to better engage students, and reflect on methods to create the most effective environment for student growth.

Positions are available in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. Review of applications occur as needed within each division of the College.

The University of Pikeville is committed to providing a safe and productive learning, living and working community. To achieve this goal, we conduct background investigations for all final applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial and/or motor vehicle history.

The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.

For more information about the University of Pikeville, please visit In addition to the application, interested applicants are requested to attach to their application a letter of interest, current curriculum vitae, copies of their transcripts, a teaching philosophy statement, and the contact information for three to five professional references.