Assistant Professor in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics Theory

Quantiki; Albuquerque, Northern (NM, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

University of New Mexico seeks an Assistant Professor in AMO theory to begin in August 2027. The appointment is tenure-track, full-time, with responsibilities in teaching and research within a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment.

The appointee will develop an independent AMO theory program, teach undergraduate and graduate courses, and mentor PhD students while collaborating with QNM-I, CHTM, and CARC to advance quantum science initiatives.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics or closely related field by start date.
• Research experience in AMO theory.
• Potential for undergraduate/graduate teaching.
• Potential to develop a strong AMO theory program.
• Commitment to cultivate an understanding of diverse cultures and community service.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in physics.
• Supervise doctoral students and mentor junior researchers.
• Engage with interdisciplinary centers (QNM-I, CHMT, CARC) for collaborative research.
• Build and maintain an active AMO theory research program.

Skills

AMO theory research

Teaching potential

Research funding

Mentoring diversity

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Job description

Assistant Professor in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics Theory

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of New Mexico (UNM) invites applications for an Assistant Professor in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics theory to begin in August 2027. This is a full-time, tenure-track position. Applicants must have a PhD in Physics or a related field by the date of appointment. All application materials must be submitted by December 1, 2026, to receive best consideration.

We are seeking an outstanding scholar in any area of AMO theory research, broadly defined. The new faculty member will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in physics and supervise doctoral students. They will have the opportunity to engage with interdisciplinary research centers at UNM, including the Quantum New Mexico Institute (QNM-I), the Center for High Technology Materials (CHTM), and the Center for Advanced Research Computing (CARC). The new faculty member will also have the opportunity to work with students in interdisciplinary academic programs including the Optical Science and Engineering PhD and MS programs, the Quantum Photonics and Quantum Technology graduate certificate program, concentrations in Quantum Information Science within the physics and engineering degree programs, the Quantum Undergraduate Research Experience at CHTM, and the Physics and Astronomy REU programs.

• 1. Ph.D. in Physics or closely related field by start date of appointment
• 2. Research experience in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical physics theory, broadly defined.

• 1. Demonstrated potential for teaching at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels, as evidenced through the submitted cover letter, CV, teaching statement, and references.
• 2. Demonstrated potential to develop a strong research program in AMO theory, as evidenced through the submitted cover letter, CV, research statement, publication record, and references.
• 3. Potential for mentoring a diverse range of students at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels.
• 4. Ability to contribute to other core areas in the department and UNM.
• 5. Ability or potential for obtaining external funding to support research and teaching.
• 6. A demonstrated commitment to cultivate an understanding of the rich and varied cultures of New Mexico and to the success of the university's mission to serve local and global communities.