Lab Instructor - Physics and Astronomy

Job Description
Department:
Physics and Astronomy - Staff
Pay Rate Type:
Salary
Employee Type:
Job Summary:Full-Time, 10-Month, Exempt, Salaried, Administrative Staff Appointment

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is seeking a laboratory instructor with an anticipated start date in mid-August 2021. With this position, the department will consist of six tenured faculty and two continuing laboratory instructors.

Under the supervision of the Department of Physics and Astronomy Chair and in collaboration with other teaching faculty and staff, the primary focus of the position will be laboratory instruction and technical support for astronomy courses, as well as laboratory instruction for introductory physics courses. The observing facilities at Colby include a new (2016) PlaneWave 0.7 m CDK telescope, a Celestron C-14 telescope and associated instrumentation for imaging and spectroscopy. The astronomy program also uses several 8” telescopes in the introductory laboratory.

The laboratory instructor will be responsible for preparing laboratory activities and materials, setting up laboratories, directing students during laboratories, assessing student work, regular weekly maintenance and testing of the observatory, and running outreach sessions at the observatory. Typically, the laboratory instructor will teach three laboratory sections per semester and have responsibility for setup, operations, maintenance of the observatory and astronomy teaching laboratories, and direction of the observatory for community events. Secondary responsibilities include additional support for other departmental laboratories, computers, and teaching demonstrations. We encourage inquiries from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our College, including its cultural and ethnic diversity.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Teach and assess student work for laboratory sections in the 100- and 200-level physics and astronomy curriculum, including evening laboratories and/or observing sessions
• Prepare laboratory activities and materials and set up laboratories
• Manage day-to-day operations and regular weekly testing and maintenance of Colby’s Collins and Young telescopes in consultation with faculty
• Coordinate with Colby’s Science Division repair technician, Facilities Services, and the Office of Information Technology Services for maintenance and repair of the observatory, astronomy equipment, and associated computers
• Participate in curriculum development
• Coordinate with constituencies on and off campus for use of the observatory,
• Follow all department safety requirements
• Perform additional duties as assigned; duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

QUALIFICATIONS :

• Bachelor’s degree in physics or astronomy or the equivalent in education and experience
• Training in the use of telescopes and image processing software strongly preferred
• Familiarity with the Python programming language and Astropy preferred
• Skills in observational astronomy
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated commitment to undergraduate education
• Highly organized, attentive to detail, and dedicated to the department and the College
• Commitment to working as part of a diverse team and student body
• High energy, creative initiative, and flexibility
• Flexibility on work schedule to support the department and teaching programs

KEY RELATIONSHIPS :

This position has significant interactions with faculty and staff, students, and other constituencies, particularly the instrument repair technician, Facilities Services, and academic computing.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS :

General open office and campus environment. Position involves sitting, although frequent movement is necessary. Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds is required. Computer usage involving repetitive hand/wrist motion is also necessary.

TO APPLY :

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the "Apply" button on the Colby Careers website. Please submit a letter of interest including salary requirements, resume, and the contact information of three professional references. Materials should be addressed to:

Laboratory Instructor (Physics and Astronomy) - Search Committee
Office of Human Resources
Colby College
5500 Mayflower Hill
Waterville, ME 04901-8855