The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Missouri, Columbia (MU) invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor, beginning on August 1, 2024.

We seek candidates who will establish a vigorous, externally funded research program at the forefront of astronomy/astrophysics. Candidates in all fields of Astronomy and Astrophysics are encouraged to apply. The present MU Astro-Group consists of faculty members with a broad variety of research interests, from comets and the interstellar medium, to stars and galaxies near and far, cosmology and relativistic astrophysics. There are also vigorous astrochemistry and astrobiology groups on campus. In addition, the candidate may benefit from a new state-of-the-art Electron Microscopy Advanced Technology Core, and the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR), a 10-MW light-water moderated reactor, that is the highest-power university research reactor in the country.

A Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics by time of appointment is required.

Merge your CV with a brief cover letter and upload the document in the Resume/CV section of the application. Applications should also include a statement of research plans (5 page limit) and a statement of teaching and mentoring plans (3 page limit) along with the names and contact information of three references. For further inquiries regarding the position, please contact Professor Aigen Li at . Contact Human Resource Services (muhrs@missouri.edu) for any questions about the application process.

Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2023, and will continue until the position is filled.

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate. In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy shall not be interpreted in such a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or the recruiting rights of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces or the Department of Homeland Security of the United States of America. For more information, call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-7976.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

Know Your Rights

To read more about Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) please use the following links:

• Know Your Rights English Version
• Know Your Rights Spanish Version