Laboratory Instructor
Department of Physics, Faculty of Science
Probationary Appointment

Position Description

The Department of Physics invites applications for a nine-month probationary appointment as a Laboratory Instructor. The initial term of the appointment is from August 11, 2025 to May 15, 2026. The appointment is full time, 40 hours per week. This position is subject to final budgetary approval.

Under the guidance of faculty members in charge of each course, the lab instructor prepares, supervises, and grades student laboratories of the undergraduate curriculum, in particular first-year labs. Responsibilities include setting up teaching lab apparatus and maintaining it in working order; providing the students with an oral summary of the lab activity; preparing/revising student lab manuals and safety documents; revising existing lab activities and developing new ones; maintaining and purchasing equipment and supply inventories; monitoring lab safety; designing custom apparatus; liaising with other lab instructors and electronics and machine shop staff; as well as other duties assigned by the Department Chair.

The ideal candidate will have experience with laboratory apparatus used in teaching in the physical sciences, and experience working with students in an academic setting. Experience with electronic test equipment, optical and laser systems, radioactive sources, mechanical testing equipment, computer hardware and software (including data acquisition interfaces), and training in lab safety and first-aid would all be assets. The Department is seeking candidates who are committed to contributing to StFX's priorities of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Demonstrated ability in fostering a climate of inclusion in the classroom is an asset.

The successful candidate will have a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Physics, Engineering, or similar field.

About the Department

To learn more about the Department of Physics, St. Francis Xavier University, please visit our website at https://www.stfx.ca/department/physics

Application Instructions

Consideration of applications will commence on April 15, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. To apply, please submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae and the names of three references via email to:

Carl Adams, Department Chair
Department of Physics
St. Francis Xavier University
P.O. Box 5000
Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5
Email: [email protected] - Telephone: 902-867-2196 (dept. office)

St. Francis Xavier University is located in Mi'kma'ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi'kmaq People.

Our institution is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including Indigenous persons (especially Mi'kmaq), racialized persons (especially African Nova Scotians), persons with disabilities, those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQIA+ and any others who would contribute to the diversity of our community. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

We are also committed to the elimination of barriers to participation for persons with disabilities. Should you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact People and Culture at [email protected] or 902-867-5038.

About St. Francis Xavier University

Established in 1853, St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) is consistently recognized as one of the best universities in Canada. StFX exceeds the needs of today's undergraduates by providing the very best academic experience-outstanding teaching, exceptional hands-on research opportunities, and global exchanges-all within Canada's most vibrant and inspiring residential campus. Here, the focus is on the academic and personal development of every student, making community and social engagement a large part of the learning experience. Our students are academically strong and highly engaged in every aspect of life, determined to make a positive impact on the world.

In 2022, Maclean's annual university rankings put StFX #1 in student satisfaction and #2 in reputation across Canada in the primarily undergraduate category. For more, visit www.stfx.ca

About Antigonish, Nova Scotia

The beautiful and historic town of Antigonish is located in the northeastern corner of Nova Scotia. Only a 15-minute drive from the ocean and a two-hour drive to major urban centres, Antigonish is a family-friendly community with a diverse and growing population and provides access to an excellent education at all levels. The town is surrounded by rolling countryside and beautiful beaches and is a hotspot for outdoor recreation, sports, and other active lifestyle activities. Antigonish supports a vibrant culture in the arts with music, performing arts, visual arts and crafts, and fabulous festivals happening throughout the year.

For more information visit www.townofantigonish.ca or www.visitantigonish.ca.