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Assistant Professor of Physics

PublishedPublished: 9/19/2026
Education

Job Title
Assistant Professor of Physics

Requisition Number
FE05019

Working Title

Department Name
8E100:Physics And Astronomy

Work Location
Lexington, KY

Type of Position
Faculty

Position Time Status
Full-Time

Tenure Track Status
Tenure Track

Required Education

A Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field

Required Related Experience

N/A

Required License/Registration/Certification

N/A

Job Summary

The Department of Physics in the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Kentucky invites applications for a tenure-eligible faculty position at the Assistant Professor level in the field of theoretical quantum materials (https://pa.as.uky.edu/condensed-matter).

We invite applications from theorists who employ modern computational and theoretical approaches, including advances in artificial intelligence (AI), to address emerging problems in quantum materials. Relevant research areas include, but are not limited to, strongly correlated electron systems, topological and magnetic materials, unconventional superconductors, moiré structures, and other low-dimensional systems. Preference will be given to candidates whose research complements and strengthens existing experimental and theoretical activities in condensed matter physics at the University of Kentucky.

This is a nine-month appointment in the regular title series with an anticipated start date of August 1, 2027. The approximate anticipated Distribution of Effort will be 65% research, 25% teaching, and 10% departmental service. The successful candidate will demonstrate a record of research excellence and the potential to establish an internationally recognized, externally funded research program. The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute effectively to teaching and mentoring at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and to participate in departmental and university service.

A Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field is required and must be completed by August 1, 2027.

In order to be considered a candidate, applicants will need to complete the following two steps:

1. Submit application materials to Academic Jobs Online at this link: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/UK/PhysicsandAstronomy/APQMAT2027

· Cover letter

· Curriculum vitae (including publication list)

· Research statement

· Teaching statement including experience and philosophy

· At least three letters of recommendation

2. Complete an Academic Profile within the University of Kentucky employment system by selecting apply for this job.

Questions about the search may be directed to Dr. Ambrose Seo, Search Committee Chair, Department of Physics, University of Kentucky.

Application Deadline is December 1, 2026 and position will remain open until filled.

Employment at the University of Kentucky is subject to fund availability and comes with many rewards, focusing on your total well-being and career development, with leadership striving to provide a strong work-life integration. The University generously contributes to employees’ medical coverage and in addition, offers optional benefits such as dental and vision insurance. To learn more about these benefits, please visit: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/our-benefits.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No

Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply

Open Until Filled
Yes

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.