Academic Jobs

111,802 open positions · Updated daily

Academic roles are more dynamic than ever as universities expand online programs and interdisciplinary research centers. The 7,541 openings include positions in STEM, social sciences, and emerging fields like bioinformatics and educational technology. Funding from federal grants, private foundations, and industry partnerships pushes demand for faculty who can secure grants, publish in top journals, and design curriculum that meets accreditation standards.

Roles span from assistant professor to research scientist, instructional designer, and academic administrator. Faculty responsibilities include lecturing, supervising graduate students, writing grant proposals, and publishing peer‑reviewed articles. Instructional designers develop online modules using LMS like Canvas or Blackboard, while administrators manage program budgets, accreditation compliance, and faculty development.

Salary transparency gives academics the data needed to compare positions across institutions, negotiate tenure packages, and assess the value of non‑salary benefits such as sabbatical funding, research support, and health insurance. Knowing the typical starting salary for an assistant professor in STEM ($70k–$90k) versus a research scientist in a private lab ($85k–$110k) helps candidates choose roles that align with career goals and financial needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are typical salary ranges for different seniority levels in academia?
Assistant professors in STEM departments average $70,000–$90,000, while associate professors range $90,000–$115,000. Full professors can earn $120,000–$160,000, depending on institution type. Research scientists in university labs earn $85,000–$110,000, and academic administrators (department chairs, deans) range $110,000–$180,000.
What skills and certifications are required for academic positions?
A PhD or terminal degree in the discipline is mandatory for faculty roles. Teaching certification (e.g., TEACH or a state teaching license) is often required for K‑12 or community college positions. Proficiency in statistical software (R, Python, SPSS), grant-writing (e.g., NIH, NSF, private foundations), and Learning Management Systems (Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle) is essential for instructional designers and online faculty.
Is remote work available for academic roles?
Many universities now offer hybrid teaching options for faculty, allowing online course delivery via Zoom or LMS. Instructional designers and research staff can work remotely, especially in industry‑partnered labs. Administrative roles may be partially remote, but on‑campus presence is typically required for department meetings.
What are common career progression paths in academia?
Typical progression starts with assistant professor (2–5 years, tenure track), followed by associate professor (tenure decision), and then full professor (tenured). Parallel tracks include research scientist (non‑tenure, funded by grants), department chair (leadership role), and dean (college‑level administration). Advancement often requires publishing, securing external funding, and demonstrating teaching excellence.
What industry trends are shaping academic careers today?
Interdisciplinary research hubs (e.g., data science, bioinformatics, sustainability) are expanding. AI and machine learning are integrated into curricula and research projects. Online and hybrid learning models are becoming standard, increasing demand for instructional designers. Open‑access publishing and data‑sharing mandates are changing scholarship expectations.

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