QNS Senior Faculty Position in Quantum Optics, Quantum Simulation and/or Photonics for AI

Physics World; Eastern Ontario; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Canadian university invites applications for a tenured Associate or Full Professor position in Quantum Optics and related fields. The successful candidate will demonstrate research leadership and a strong record of securing funding. They will also embody a commitment to embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion in their research and mentorship. Applications will be accepted until January 5, 2026, with priority given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership in Quantum Optics, Quantum Simulation, and/or Photonics.
• Evidence of embedding best practices related to I-EDIAA.
• A proposed research program aligned with institutional priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead a research program in physics with an emphasis on quantum technologies.
• Supervise graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
• Engage in collaborative interdisciplinary research.

Skills

Outstanding researcher

Strong grant funding record

Innovative research program

Experience in supervising students

Commitment to diversity and inclusion

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Job description

Position Summary

The Faculty of Arts and Science at Queen’s University invites applications for a Queen’s National Scholar (QNS) tenured appointment at the rank of Associate or Full Professor in the Department of Physics, Engineering Physics, and Astronomy. We are seeking a collaborative scholar with demonstrated leadership in Quantum Optics, Quantum Simulation, and/or Photonics for Artificial Intelligence. Applications from theorists and computational scientists are encouraged, and experimentalists with complementary focus in nanophotonic and quantum photonic research will also be considered.

The appointment is expected to begin July 1, 2026.

Qualifications

1. Outstanding and innovative world‑class researcher whose international recognition and major impact are evidenced by peer‑assessed publications and diverse scholarly impact (e.g., invited talks, keynote presentations, prestigious awards, track record of securing funding and leading scientific collaborations).
2. Strong record of obtaining peer‑reviewed competitive grant funding from external bodies.
3. Established or proposed original, innovative research program of the highest quality with evidence of strong collaborations and interdisciplinary scholarship.
4. Evidence that the research program aligns with institutional or faculty priorities and/or existing or emerging areas of research strength (see Queen’s Strategy and Strategic Research Plan).
5. Superior record of attracting and supervising graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, and ability to develop and retain excellent trainees.
6. Clear evidence of embedding best practices related to Indigenization, equity, diversity, inclusion, anti‑racism, and accessibility (I‑EDIAA) into the research and learning environment.

Vaccination Requirements

Prior to May 1, 2022, the University required all students, faculty, staff, and visitors to declare their COVID‑19 vaccination status and provide proof of full vaccination or an approved accommodation. These requirements were suspended effective May 1, 2022, but the University may reinstate them at any point.

How to Apply

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Queen’s is strongly committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from Black, racialised/visible minority, Indigenous people, women, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ persons.

Applicants are encouraged to provide contextual information for any career interruptions, caregiving responsibilities, health conditions, or systemic barriers that may affect their research record.

Queen’s is committed to providing support and accommodation for applicants with disabilities at all stages of the recruitment process. If you require accommodation for submitting your application or during the interview process, please contact Melissa Balson in the Department of Physics, Engineering Physics, and Astronomy at [e-mail].

In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority, including any qualified individuals who have a valid legal work status in Canada. Please indicate in your application if you have a valid legal work status in Canada.

• Cover letter including whether you have a valid legal work status in Canada;
• Current Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications (student co‑authors clearly indicated), awards, grants (secured and pending), and other evidence of scholarly impact;
• Summary of the proposed research program and research vision for the next 7 years, including how equity, diversity, and inclusion have been incorporated into the research design and team, and how the program is making an impact (e.g., track record of student and postdoc supervision, industrial partnerships, or connection to Canada’s National Quantum Strategy);
• Statement of teaching interests and experience, including a summary of HQP supervision and mentorship, and a statement on commitment to the facilitation and promotion of I‑EDIAA in the student and trainee environment;
• Contact information for three potential references who could provide letters upon request.

The deadline for applications is January 5, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to submit all documents electronically as PDFs to Professor Lawrence Widrow at [e-mail]. Hard copies may also be mailed to:

Lawrence Widrow, Head
Department of Physics, Engineering Physics, and Astronomy
Stirling Hall
64 Bader Lane
Queen’s University
Kingston, Ontario
CANADA, K7L 3N6

Appointments are subject to review and final approval by the Provost. Candidates holding an existing tenure‑track or continuing‑adjunct appointment at Queen’s will not be considered.