Astronomy Education Postdoctoral Fellow

Frostburg State University (FSU) is poised to become a regional leader in astronomy education and outreach with the reopening of its newly upgraded, state-of-the-art planetarium in Spring 2026. To support this growing vision, the Department of Physical & Environmental Sciences invites applications for a full-time contractual, exempt Astronomy Education Postdoctoral Fellow, with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2027.
This three-year appointment is contingent upon a successful first-year performance evaluation and continued grant funding. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The successful candidate will be eligible for a contractual benefits package, including health insurance eligibility, paid leave, holidays, tuition remission, supplemental retirement options, as well as a $2,000 annual research budget to support publications.

Responsibilities:

The fellow will bring fresh expertise in both astronomy and science education, advancing FSU’s mission through innovative STEM outreach, high-quality teaching, and original research. The position will strengthen campus instruction and expand community engagement.
· Planetarium Support (41%)
· Research and Service (33%)
· Teaching (26%)

Minimum Qualifications:

• Recent graduate or ABD with a PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or Education (with at least a Master’s in Science Teaching or extensive experience teaching science if PhD is in Education)
• At least two years of teaching experience
• Ability to develop an independent research program that includes undergraduate students

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience researching science curriculum, preferably astronomy
• Experience in informal STEM education (e.g., museums, planetariums, science centers)
• Evidence of outreach and public engagement activities

About the University:
A member institution of the University System of Maryland, Frostburg State University is a public, comprehensive, largely residential regional university offering programs in the sciences, education, business, the arts and humanities at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. FSU prides itself on being a dynamic, learning-centered institution that emphasizes teaching with opportunities for professional development and research. More than 4,000 students enroll yearly.
About the Area:
FSU is located on a scenic 260-acre campus in the mountains of Western Maryland, a region rich in history, quaint shopping areas and eclectic cafes and food choices. The Western Maryland region is considered a four-season outdoor hub of recreational experiences offering activities such as hiking, mountain biking, water sports, snow skiing/boarding, golfing, climbing, etc. Frostburg offers a family-friendly college town feel with easy access to major cities like Pittsburgh, Washington, DC, and Baltimore. If you are looking for insightful colleagues, energetic students, and a great place to work and call home in a region with unlimited adventure seeking opportunities, FSU is for you!
To Apply:
If you wish to apply, please visit https://marylandconnect.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/FSU_Careers
Along with your application, please provide the following: 1) CV; 2) a cover letter; 3) research statement; 4) teaching statement; 5) names and contact information for three professional references.
For assurance of full consideration, please submit materials by December 15, 2026. This position is open until filled.
Additional Job Information:
Research Specialist Social Clinical
FSU is proud to be a diverse and inclusive multicultural university.
Frostburg State University welcomes and encourages women, veterans and minorities to apply and seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce. FSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Appropriate auxiliary aids and services for qualified individuals with disability will be provided upon request. Please notify us in advance.
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