Assistant Professor, Physics Education Research

The Opportunity

The Department of Physics (physics.ucf.edu) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) invites applications for a full‑time, nine‑month faculty position for specialization in Physics Education Research at the rank of assistant professor (tenure‑earning), anticipated to begin in August 2026.

UCF is a leader in innovative teaching techniques and pedagogy, especially those that align with the opportunities and challenges of a large metropolitan university. We have a vibrant and active Discipline‑based Education Researcher community, with research in multiple STEM areas, including Physics and Chemistry.

We seek candidates with experience in Physics Education Research and/or Discipline‑based Education Research, who will build on existing strengths advancing physics pedagogy. Specific areas of interest include (but are not limited to) Introductory or upper‑level physics labs; application of cutting‑edge technology such as generative artificial intelligence and machine learning in STEM Education Research; analysis of qualitative and/or mixed‑methods research data; meta‑cognition, emotion, and self‑regulated learning;

technology‑enhanced learning;
Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Informatics Education Research; and Astronomy Education Research. The candidate should consider how their research program would enhance interaction and collaboration with other related research programs across the university.

The successful candidate is expected to establish a vigorous, externally funded, and creative research program and demonstrate excellence in graduate and undergraduate teaching and mentoring. Instructional duties and service assignments are in accordance with the department’s current equitable workload policy.

• A Ph.​D. or equivalent from an accredited institution in physics or a closely related discipline at the time of hire and a record of independent research.

• A record of successful research in physics or astronomy education research.
• A record of externally funded research, and/or a clear potential for future external funding.
• Experience teaching physics and/or astronomy at the university level.
• Experience with or interest in integrating technology into teaching and research.

UCF requires all applications and supporting documents to be submitted electronically through the Human Resources employment opportunities website, https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). In addition to the online application, candidates should upload a cover letter, a current curriculum vitae, a two‑page teaching statement, and a two‑ to three‑page research statement (including a brief plan for future research).

Please have all documents ready when applying so they can be simultaneously uploaded. Once the online submission process is finalized, the system does not allow applicants to submit additional documents later.

The selected candidate will be required to submit official transcripts (and, as applicable, U.S. degree equivalency evaluations) documenting the conferral of their qualifying academic credentials.

Questions regarding this search should be directed to:
Luca Argenti, Search Chair, enti.

Sponsorship for employment‑based visas will only be considered under exceptional circumstances and is not guaranteed. Preference will be given to candidates who are currently authorized to work for any employer in the United States.

January 31, 2026

• Benefit packages, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending, and Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid time off, including annual (12‑month faculty) and sick time off and paid holidays.
• Retirement savings options.
• Employee discounts, including tickets to many Orlando attractions.
• Education assistance.
• Flexible work environment.
• And more… For more benefits information, view the UCF Employee Benefits Guide .

Unless explicitly stated on the job posting, it is UCF’s expectation that an employee of UCF will reside in Florida as of the date the employment…