Job Summary/Basic Functions

The Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise and Sport Science (PRESS) at Eastern Kentucky University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position at the rank of assistant or associate professor primarily focused in the Exercise and Sport Science program. Applicants should hold an earned terminal degree (PhD, EdD, DA, ScD, DSc, DHSc, or HScD in a related field; DAT, DPT, and/or JD) in a relevant discipline to the teaching responsibilities (Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Physical Education, Exercise Science or related field) at the time of appointment. ABD applicants may be considered with evidence of a scheduled doctoral defense that occurs no later than May prior to a Fall appointment. The position begins August 2026.

Primary teaching responsibilities will be within the department's BS in ESS: Health Optimization and Performance Management concentration and the MS in ESS: Exercise & Wellness concentration with support to the pre-professional BS in ESS: Pre-Athletic Training and Pre-Physical Therapy concentrations. In addition to teaching, faculty will be required to maintain scholarship and service in accordance with EKU policy.

Course assignment will be determined by department administration (chair and/or associate chair) in consideration of professional content expertise and will consist of a 4/4 load (12 credits each semester). Course topics may include, but are not limited to: foundations of exercise physiology and performance, lifetime wellness, bioenergetics, strength and conditioning, and fitness programming based on expertise.

Faculty are expected to contribute to the departmental, college, and institutional mission in the areas of teaching, scholarship, and service. The department emphasizes the application of knowledge and skills across multiple populations, specifically including adapted and tactical populations. Opportunities exist for faculty to collaborate through the Department’s Center for Adapted and Special Population Activity and Recreation (CASPAR), which includes collaborations with recreation therapy, ROTC, and the Department of Criminal Justice Training. These opportunities and strategic emphasis strongly compliments EKU's mission and initiatives in supporting veterans and first responders and builds on already established action within the department. The successful candidate will contribute to these efforts through content expertise within the classroom; innovative curriculum, service, and scholarship; and collaboration with current faculty and established initiatives.

The Department of PRESS boasts undergraduate and graduate programs in Recreation and Park Administration, Exercise and Sport Science (ESS) and Sports Management. Graduates of PRESS programs are poised to create a lasting impact on their communities by providing infrastructure and programming to improve function and achieve optimal health outcomes in various settings. The Exercise and Sport Science program consists of three concentrations that provide care, guidance, and services to those aiming to return to previous levels of function as well as those working to enhance performance.

The University places a high priority on being leaders in the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and in building such capacity in our students. The successful candidate will demonstrate knowledge of AI pertinent to the discipline and/or a willingness to pursue professional development to acquire such expertise. We encourage applicants with demonstrated experience in leveraging AI in research or professional practice, particularly as it advances innovation within the discipline.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: An earned terminal degree (PhD, EdD, DA, ScD, DSc, DHSc, or HScD in related field; DAT, DPT, and/or JD) in a relevant discipline to the teaching responsibilities (Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Physical Education, Exercise Science or related field) at the time of appointment.

ABD applicants may be considered with evidence of a scheduled doctoral defense that occurs no later than May prior to a Fall appointment.

Experience: Desired 3-5 years of experience in the field as well as 2-3 years in higher education.

Licensure & Certifications: Current Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and/or personal training certification (ACSM, NASM, NSCA, etc)

Preferred Qualifications:

Job Duties:

• 80% - Create curriculum, instruct students, and facilitate courses. - (Essential)
• 10% - Serve on department, division, and University committees and represent the college at appropriate University bodies, committees, council, etc. Service includes supporting the department functions by completing all other duties and special projects as assigned. - (Essential)
• 10% - Develop, conduct, and disseminate scholarly work with an expressed goal to support teaching and professional knowledge. - (Essential)