Sessional Instructors: Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science

Description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy, within the Faculty of Science, invites applications for Summer 2026 Term Sessional Instructors.

The successful candidates will have responsibilities for lecture instruction, lab co-ordination, and any other associated duties for these 3-unit courses during the Summer 2026 sessions.

ASTR 209 - Introduction to Astronomy II - The Cosmos (Summer 2026)

A comprehensive, descriptive overview of the universe outside the solar system. The electromagnetic spectrum; stellar spectra; distance determinations. Origin and evolution of stars; white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes. The interstellar medium. Dark matter. Galaxies and quasars. The Big Bang. The fate of the universe. Possible field trip to the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory.

PHYS 223 - Introductory Electromagnetism, and Thermal Physics (Summer 2026)

Electrical forces and energy. Static electric fields due to point charges. Parallel-plate capacitor. Simple DC circuits. Lorentz force. Static magnetic fields generated by electric currents. Electromagnetic induction. Gas Laws; kinetic theory of gases; temperature, thermal energy, specific heat; energy transfer; laws of thermodynamics; PVT diagrams.

PHYS 259 - Electricity and Magnetism (for students in Engineering) (Summer 2026)

Electric and magnetic fields related to charges and current through Maxwell's equations. Energy stored in fields, potential energy, and voltage. Conductors, insulators, and dielectrics. Resistance, capacitance, and inductance with applications to RC/RL circuits.

To be confirmed. Please continue to monitor  for updates to course times.

All lectures will be offered via in-person delivery mode.

Monday, June 29, 2026, to Sunday, August 23, 2026

The successful candidate(s) will hold a PhD in Physics or a related field and will have a demonstrated record of teaching effectiveness and engagement with students.

• Cover letter
• Current curriculum vitae
• Statement of teaching philosophy, including fostering an inclusive learning environment
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness
• Three letters of reference (can be submitted with the pdf application or sent under separate cover by the Final date to receive applications to [email protected])

• Applicants who have taught as a sessional instructor in the Faculty of Science within the past two years may choose to only submit a cover letter and current CV.
• Multiple individuals may be hired to instruct different courses, therefore applicants are encouraged to indicate in their application the course(s) they are interested in and qualified to teach.

March 9, 2026

Remuneration is calculated according to the Collective Agreement, Schedule

B. Please see the Faculty Association's website at  for further information regarding conditions of employment and remuneration.

As per the Collective Agreement, the Department of Physics and Astronomy will adhere to the right of first refusal terms (Section 23.12.1 and 23.12.2) for Sessional Appointments.

Only those candidates chosen to proceed in the selection process will be contacted.

The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy ii' taa'poh'to'p committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do. As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community.

We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply.

To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments ([email protected]) and requests for accommodations can be sent to People & Culture ([email protected]). All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

In this connection, at the time of your application, please answer the following question:
Are you a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada? (Yes/No)