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, exempt Astronomy Education Postdoctoral Fellow, with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2027.
This three-year appointment is contingent on a successful first-year performance evaluation and grant funding. The position will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The successful candidate will receive a comprehensive University System of Maryland benefits package - including annual, personal, and sick leave; holidays; tuition remission; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; and retirement plans - as well as a $2,000 annual research budget to be used for 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.
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.
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 disabilities will be provided upon request. Please notify us in advance.
