Job Details

Position Type: Full-Time
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Benefits: All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, paid annual and holiday leave, tuition benefits, retirement and savings options, tax-deferred plans, employee discounts, professional development opportunities, and more.
Posted: 12/08/2025
Category: Physics
Unit: College of Humanities & Sciences
Department: Physics

Position Overview

The Department of Physics at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) invites applications for a renewable, non-tenure-track Instructor position beginning August 2026. The department is seeking an enthusiastic educator dedicated to undergraduate teaching in astrophysics and introductory physics, with a strong interest in student-centered learning and curriculum innovation.

This role provides exciting opportunities to teach in VCU’s new state-of-the-art STEM building—an environment intentionally designed to encourage collaboration, engagement, and community building among students completing foundational coursework. Additional outreach possibilities exist through partnerships such as the nearby Science Museum of Virginia.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Teach introductory physics and astrophysics courses, including PHYS 101 (Foundations of Physics) and PHYS 103 (Elementary Astronomy).

• Contribute to the development of new astronomy-focused courses supporting a forthcoming astronomy minor.

• Support student success across diverse backgrounds through inclusive and equitable teaching practices.

• Participate in departmental initiatives and contribute to curriculum development with an emphasis on modern pedagogical best practices.

• Engage in community and outreach activities where appropriate.

• Complete required application materials, including the names of three references, who will be contacted for recommendation letters.

Application review begins January 15, 2025 and continues until the position is filled.
For questions, contact Carissa Capuano at clcapuano@vcu.edu.

About VCU

Located in downtown Richmond—the capital city of Virginia—VCU serves more than 28,000 students across over 200 academic programs. The university spans several campuses in Richmond and maintains additional sites in Fairfax, Abingdon, and Doha, Qatar.

The Department of Physics includes 12 tenured/tenure-track faculty, 8 instructional term faculty, and approximately 100 undergraduate majors.
Learn more at the department website: physics.vcu.edu.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics or Astrophysics.

• Demonstrated experience teaching large introductory courses (enrollments of 100+ students).

• Ability to foster and maintain an environment of professionalism, respect, and civility among faculty, staff, and students of varying backgrounds and experiences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of evidence-based teaching practices.

• A demonstrated, ongoing commitment to high-quality undergraduate education and pedagogical growth.

Position Details

• Salary Range: Commensurate with qualifications

• FLSA Status: Exempt

• Hours: 40 per week

• Months: 9-month appointment

• Rank: Instructor

• Tenure Status: Ineligible

• Restricted Position: No

• ORP Eligible: Yes

• Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

• University Job Title: Instructor, Astronomy

Contact Information

Search Chair:
Carissa Capuano
Email: clcapuano@vcu.edu