Lecturer - Astronomy

Job no : 528947

Work type : Faculty Full Time

Location : UMass Amherst

Department : Astronomy

Union : MSP

Categories : College of Natural Sciences, Lecturer / Non-Tenure Track

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valuedand thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.

Job Summary

The Department of Astronomy at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for a full-time non-tenure track Lecturer with expertise in teaching Astronomy. This is an academic year, benefited 2-year position that is renewable contingent upon performance, including eligibility for a full-time continuing appointment after four years of service.

We seek a dynamic educator who will contribute to our undergraduate teaching mission through high-quality instruction, innovative pedagogy, and active engagement with students. The successful candidate will teach a combination of introductory and upper-level astronomy courses, help supervise active learning laboratories, and contribute to departmental initiatives that promote experiential and inclusive learning in astronomy and astrophysics.

This person will also perform service in support of the mission and goals of the Department and College. The University invests in our facultys continued professional growth through the Center for Teaching and Learning. Lecturers at the University of Massachusetts are unionized with the potential for long-term careers with promotional advancement within the Lecturer ranks. Lecturers are also eligible to apply for numerous professional development grants and fellowships through the University and College of Natural Sciences (https : / / www.umass.edu / faculty-development / awards-recognition / professional-development-fellowships).

Essential Functions

• Teach undergraduate courses in astronomy, including introductory general education courses and intermediate / advanced courses for majors.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of laboratory and observational components, including use of the departments telescopes and teaching observatory.
• Engage in curriculum development that promotes active learning, student engagement, and access in the classroom.
• Mentor undergraduate students and participate in departmental academic activities and events.
• Contribute to departmental service, including outreach, admission committees, mentoring, and curricular management and development.

Other Functions

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

Additional Details

The Department of Astronomy at UMass Amherst is part of the Five College Astronomy Department (FCAD), a unique consortium that fosters collaboration and resource sharing among UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, and Hampshire College. The successful applicant will have opportunities to participate in FCAD-wide activities and initiatives.

Work Schedule

Salary Information

It is expected that the salary range for this position is between $65,550 and $127,607.

Please note :

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a continuous basis until the position is filled. Early submissions are encouraged.

At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. You can find these values and goals at : Inclusive Excellence : College of Natural Sciences : UMass Amherst, and For the Common Good - 2024-2034 : Strategic Plan : UMass Amherst.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.

Advertised : Nov 7 2025 Eastern Standard Time

Applications close :

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