Assistant Professor in Secondary Science Education - Tenure Track Position at Purdue University

Join the Purdue University Community as an Assistant Professor in Secondary Science Education

Purdue University's Department of Curriculum and Instruction is seeking a highly motivated and innovative Assistant Professor in Secondary Science Education to join its esteemed faculty. As a tenure-track Assistant Professor, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the department's mission of fostering a culture of discovery, learning, and engagement. With a strong commitment to free and open inquiry, Purdue University offers a collaborative and inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes academic excellence.

About the Science Education Program at Purdue University

The Science Education Program within the Department of Curriculum and Instruction is dedicated to investigating contemporary issues in science education research and theory, as well as pedagogical methods related to science learning, teaching, assessment, curriculum, and teacher professional development. As a faculty member, you will be part of a community that is passionate about creating and disseminating knowledge relevant to the discipline of science education, preparing scholars and educators, and promoting access to science for all learners.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct high-quality, innovative research in secondary science education and disseminate results through high-impact publications and presentations at national and international professional organizations.
• Seek external funding to support a rigorous and coherent research program, contributing to the department's research excellence.
• Teach undergraduate secondary science pedagogy courses and graduate courses in science education, developing and delivering curriculum that is relevant and engaging.
• Supervise secondary science student teaching candidates, providing guidance and mentorship to ensure their success.
• Support state and national level program review processes for the science education teacher licensure programs, ensuring compliance and excellence.
• Recruit, advise, and mentor graduate students, fostering their academic and professional growth.
• Collaborate on research, teaching, and engagement activities within the College of Education, across the university, and with K-12 schools, building strong partnerships and networks.
• Develop online courses and graduate courses, as well as collaborate with centers such as the Center for Advancing the Teaching and Learning of STEM (CATALYST), an interdisciplinary center that brings together faculty, staff, and graduate students from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.

Essential Qualifications

To be considered for this position, you must meet the following essential qualifications:

• Earned doctorate in science education or closely related field, with an emphasis in secondary science education.
• Earned undergraduate degree in a science discipline (e.g., biology, chemistry, earth/space science, physics/astronomy) or secondary science education with the equivalent of a minor in a science discipline.
• An emerging record of high-quality, innovative scholarship in science education or closely related field.
• 3+ years of teaching or equivalent school-based experience in U.S. K-12 schools.

Preferred Qualifications

In addition to the essential qualifications, the following preferred qualifications will be considered:

• Experience teaching undergraduate secondary science pedagogy courses.
• Experience supervising secondary science teacher candidates.
• Experience teaching culturally and linguistically diverse students.
• Experience in integrating engineering design in middle and high school science instruction, K-12 computer science, and/or artificial intelligence in K-12 STEM education.

What We Offer

As a tenure-track Assistant Professor at Purdue University, you will have access to a range of benefits and opportunities, including:

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes academic excellence.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
• Opportunities to engage with K-12 schools and communities, making a positive impact on education.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Purdue University is committed to creating a work environment that is inclusive, supportive, and stimulating. As a faculty member, you will be part of a community that values diversity, promotes academic excellence, and fosters a culture of discovery and engagement. The university offers a range of resources and services to support faculty well-being, including professional development opportunities, mentorship programs, and employee wellness initiatives.

Compensation and Benefits

Purdue University offers a competitive compensation and benefits package to its faculty members. While the exact salary for this position is not disclosed, we can assure you that it is commensurate with your experience and qualifications. The university also provides a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

How to Apply

If you are a motivated and innovative educator and researcher who is passionate about secondary science education, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. To submit your application, please provide the following:

• A brief letter of application.
• A current curriculum vitae.
• A 2-page (maximum) narrative describing your research program.
• A 2-page (maximum) narrative describing your teaching philosophy.
• Two examples of scholarly writing.
• Three letters of recommendation.

Review of complete applications will begin on October 31, 2023, and will continue until the position is filled. We anticipate the start date to be August 12, 2024.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a rewarding and challenging opportunity to make a positive impact on education, we encourage you to apply for this tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Secondary Science Education at Purdue University. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and a collaborative and inclusive work environment, we offer a range of opportunities for career growth and professional development. Join our community of scholars and educators and help shape the future of science education.

To learn more about this opportunity and to submit your application, please click on the link below.