Assistant Professor, Physics

Institution:

Black Hills State University Posting Number:

F01877

P Department:

BHSU-School of Natural Sciences Physical Location of Position (City): Spearfish Posting Text The School of Natural Sciences at Black Hills State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Physics, beginning August 2026. This position is part of the recently awarded NSF EPSCoR Ge-STAR Project (Germanium Science and Technology for Advanced Research - https://ge-star.org ) and offers an outstanding opportunity to join a nationally recognized research program in germanium-based science and technology. We seek a candidate with expertise in experimental or computational physics. Black Hills State University is a primarily undergraduate University located in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. The School of Natural Sciences at Black Hills State University is a vibrant, growing division with approximately 23 faculty members in biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. Faculty emphasize undergraduate teaching, mentoring, research, and service. Research projects are funded through a variety of state and federal agencies, and partnership grants. As the closest institution to the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), BHSU is uniquely positioned with easy access to the exciting underground science occurring on its 4850L. Currently, BHSU is a member of the world-leading direct dark matter detection

LUX-ZEPLIN

(LZ) experiment and also runs the low-background counting facility at SURF, the BHSU Underground Campus (BHUC).

DUTIES:

The successful candidate is expected to teach undergraduate courses, build a strong, externally funded research program, and mentor and advise undergraduate students in research. Teaching modalities may include face-to-face and online.. The candidate will also participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising, service on committees, sustained scholarly research, and outreach activities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

PhD in Physics or closely related field.

SPECIAL COMMENTS

This position is partially grant funded. Continued employment is contingent upon the availability of funding.

TO APPLY

Applications must be made online at http://Yourfuture.sdbor.edu . To apply, complete the online application and attach a letter of application, vita, copies of transcripts, evidence of teaching effectiveness (including class evaluations, if available) and the names and contact information for three references. Letters of reference/recommendation are not accepted. We will accept applications until June 8, 2026, at 11 pm mountain time. For application assistance, please contact Human Resources at 605.642.6549. Inquiries specific to the position should be directed to Dr. Brianna Mount, Associate Professor of Physics, Brianna.

Mount@bhsu.edu . Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by contacting Cassie Maser at 605-642-6545 or Cassie.

Maser@bhsu.edu . Employment is dependent upon a satisfactory background check.

Closing Date:

06/08/2026

Open Until Filled:

No Advertised Salary:

$73,350 depending on experience/qualifications Duration of the

Term:

9 months

Tenure Status Tenure Track Proposed Rank Assistant Professor Appointment Type:

Regular Department Description and Cultural Expectations Black Hills State University is a masters-level state university with more than 3,600 students. The campus leads the region in sustainability efforts and maintains top academic programs in business (AACSB Accredited), exercise science, natural sciences, social sciences, the arts, mass communication, health sciences and education. The University, founded in 1883, is located in the northern Black Hills, a region abundant with outdoor activity and culture. Spearfish, S.D., is recognized as one of the top 10 most livable small towns in the USA and has also been recognized nationally for outdoor recreational opportunities. A second location, BHSU-RC, is in Rapid City, the state's second-largest city. BHSU, a member of NCAA Division II athletics, offers 14 sports, and has a legacy of champion rodeo teams. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Black Hills State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Black Hills State University and the Board of Regents ensure that all employment practices are free of discrimination.