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Adjunct Instructors in Physics

(ABD candidates considered)

The Physics Department at Simpson College, Indianola, IA, anticipates the need for adjunct instructors for Spring 2019 and for Fall-Spring 2019-20, see course descriptions below. Candidates with a PhD in physics are preferred, ABD physics candidates with an expressed interest in teaching will be considered.

Interested candidates may apply for either position by sending a cover letter, a current vita, and the name(s) and contact information of two references, at least one of whom must be able to comment on the candidate’s teaching qualifications. The cover letter should: express the candidate’s interest and qualifications for the position, relate any previous teaching experiences, and briefly discuss the candidate’s thoughts on providing a student-centered and engaging classroom in the context of a liberal arts college. Applications and any questions regarding the positions should be directed electronically to: Dr. David Olsgaard, Physics Program Chair, Simpson College, david.olsgaard@simpson.edu

Spring 2019 We anticipate a need for a qualified instructor to teach our junior-level quantum mechanics course (Phys 360). The normal schedule for this course would be three 1.0-hour lecture/recitation meetings per week on MWF, OR two 1.5-hour meetings on TTh. Enrollment in the course is expected to be 4-7 students. The successful candidate would be expected to engage the students in interactive lectures and class activities. Textbook: Quantum Mechanics, by David McIntyre. This textbook is similar in level to the popular Griffith’s text, but takes a “spins first” approach.

Fall-Spring 2019-20 We anticipate a need for a qualified instructor to teach our year-long algebra-trig based college physics for life sciences (Phys 151-152) along with two laboratory sections. The normal schedule for this course would be three 1.0-hour lectures (MTF) and one 1.0-hour recitation (Th) per week. Laboratory sections are 3-hours each, normally on Th morning and Th afternoon. There may be some flexibility in these times. Enrollment in the course is expected to be 28-32 students. The successful candidate would be expected to engage the students in interactive lectures and active learning class activities. Textbook: We currently use the free online OpenStax textbook College Physics. https://openstax.org/details/books/college-physics

Simpson College is a private, nationally recognized regional college grounded in the liberal arts tradition and affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Simpson encourages innovative teaching and seeks colleagues who will help its students of all ages develop critical intellectual skills, nurture values which foster personal worth and individuality for the purpose of living lives of leadership within a creative, diverse and just community. The main campus is located in Indianola, Iowa which is just 12 minutes from the capital city, Des Moines, Iowa.  Additional facilities are located in West Des Moines. To learn more about Simpson College, please visit: www.simpson.edu.

Simpson College does not unlawfully discriminate and aims to employ persons of various backgrounds and experiences to help constitute a diverse community. We are particularly interested in receiving applications from members of underrepresented groups. You will find the entire EOE statement at: https://simpson.edu/about-simpson-college/human-resources-office  Successful applicants will demonstrate a commitment to cultural diversity and the ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Employment will require a criminal background check, which may include, but is not limited to- criminal history, national sex offender search, and motor vehicle history.