South Dakota State University Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry & Physics is offering an exciting career opportunity as a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Physics. We are seeking a dedicated research professional (theorist or experimentalist) committed to excellence in research, teaching and student success. The ideal candidate will build a nationally competitive independent research program that provides training to both undergraduate and graduate students and aligns well with one or more of the strengths that are already present in the department (health physics, condensed matter physics, and/or particle physics). This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota and is a 9-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.
SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.
The Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics provides students with a solid foundation in scientific disciplines through challenging coursework, laboratory explorations and research opportunities. Our recent graduates have gone on to work at local or national companies and research laboratories, attending medical schools, pursuing graduate degrees and teaching at the high school and university levels.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop an independent research program in the area of health physics, condensed matter physics, or particle physics that compliments current research efforts within the Department.
- Disseminate research through publications in peer-reviewed articles and conference presentations.
- Identify, secure and manage extramural grant funding for individual research program as well as contributing to the department’s research portfolio.
- Develop and deliver curriculum for undergraduate and/or graduate students related to physics. Contribute to curriculum development ensuring alignment with industry standards and emerging trends in the field to foster an effective learning experience for students.
- Provide service to the department, college and university through participation in faculty committees, student recruitment, student orientation, accreditation and assessment, etc.
SALARY: The salary for this position is commensurate with qualifications and experience, starting $82,000.
BENEFITS:
SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- PhD in Physics or a closely related field completed by first day of employment.
- Ability or strong potential to teach undergraduate courses at the collegiate level.
- Ability or strong potential to successfully obtain extramural funding through grant writing.
- Ability or strong potential to develop an independent research program with a focus on health physics, condensed matter physics or particle physics leading to publication of results in refereed journals.
- Ability or strong potential to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability or potential to plan, develop, implement, and evaluate educational materials and direct effective programs.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Position closes on January 15, 2026.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, Curriculum Vitae, research statement (maximum of 3 pages, attached as ‘work or writing sample’), teaching statement (maximum of 3 pages, attached as ‘other’), and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.
Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.
SDState is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.
For questions on the position, contact search committee chair, Robert McTaggart ([email protected]).
South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant access mission. SDSU is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits discrimination on, the basis of sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, gender identification, transgender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status that may become protected under law against discrimination in the offering of all educational programs and employment opportunities. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing
[email protected]. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007, 605-688-4128.
