Assistant Professor - Department of Physics

Colorado State University; United States; On-site; USD 91,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University’s Department of Physics invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position. We seek candidates working in theoretical and computational condensed matter physics. The appointee will teach and mentor students at all levels, build an internationally recognized research program, and participate in governance and service.

Work visa sponsorship may be available. For full consideration, applications must be received by December 3, 2026.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics or related field.
• Demonstrated research productivity and potential.
• Evidence of ability to teach effectively.

Responsibilities

• Teach and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
• Develop and publish research and pursue external funding.
• Provide service to the department, university, profession, and community.
• Contribute to curriculum development and program growth.

Skills

Theoretical Physics

Computational Methods

Education

PhD in Physics

Job description

Position Summary

The Department of Physics at Colorado State University (CSU) invites applications for a Tenure-track Assistant Professor position. We welcome applicants working in theoretical and computational condensed Physics.

The appointed individual is expected to actively participate in the teaching/mentoring/advising of undergraduate students, graduate students, post-doctoral scholars, including classroom teaching. They are also expected to build and operate a forward-looking and internationally recognized research program. Participation in department and university service and administrative governance, engagement in scholarly/professional endeavors, and fulfilling general faculty responsibilities is expected. These activities are vital to the teaching, research, and service missions of Colorado State University.

For full consideration, applications and materials must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. MST, December 3, 2026. This position will remain open until filled. Work authorization visa sponsorship may be available based on the specific situation, including cost, for the selected final candidate.

Work Unit Description

The Department of Physics is an academic department within the College of Natural Sciences. It has 21 faculty members with research programs primarily in the areas of atomic, molecular, and optical physics; high-energy and particle astrophysics, and condensed matter physics.

Essential Job Duties

• Teach and mentor students at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including course and curriculum development.
• Conduct and publish research, pursue external funding, and contribute to scholarly advancement in the field.
• Provide service to the department, university, profession, and community in support of CSU’s mission.
• Other duties as assigned.

Conditions of Employment

• Pre-employment background check (required for all new hires).
• Supervision: Graduate Research Assistants.
• Undergraduate Research Assistants.
• FTE will vary and will be commensurate with the scope of the research program.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent terminal degree in Physics of a related field.
• Evidence of research productivity and potential to establish a sustainable scholarly program in the research area of theoretical and computational theoretical physics (e.g., publications, presentations, grant activity).
• Evidence of ability to teach effectively at the undergraduate and/or graduate level.

Preferred Qualifications

• A strong record demonstrating potential to contribute to teaching/mentoring/advising of undergraduate and graduate students.
• A strong record of scholarly/professional preparation and record of past research accomplishments.
• A proposed research plan that is innovative, aligns with the interests of the Department and College, is of quality and has a high likelihood of success, can lead to an internationally recognized research program with external funding.
• Potential to contribute to service for the university, the profession of physics, and the public.

Salary Range

$91,000 - $95,000

Required Application Documents

• Cover Letter, Resume/CV, Statement of Teaching/Research Philosophy

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact. Review our detailed benefits information here. Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here. For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Inspired by its land‑grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.