Assistant Professor of Physics

University of Kentucky; Lexington, Northern (KY, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kentucky invites applications for a tenure-eligible Assistant Professor position in computational astrophysics, with emphasis on theory or observation. Start date anticipated August 1, 2027.

The department values data-driven research and modern computational techniques, including AI/ML, with access to major facilities such as Athena and Rubin Observatory.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or closely related field (or completion by Aug 1, 2027).
• Strong data-driven approach and AI/ML expertise in astronomy.
• Ability to establish and sustain externally funded research programs.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses and supervise student projects.
• Mentor and train students and postdocs; contribute to research training.
• Develop an externally funded research program and contribute to department and university service.

Skills

Data-driven research

AI/ML in astronomy

Mentoring

Collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or closely related field

Tools

Athena Supercomputer

Roman Space Telescope

Cloudy Project

Job description

Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or a closely related field

Required Related Experience

N/A

Required License/Registration/Certification

N/A

Job Summary

The Department of Physics and Astronomy ( https://pa.as.uky.edu/ ) 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 computational astrophysics, with expertise in either theory or observation. The anticipated start date is August 1, 2027.

We are particularly interested in candidates whose research is data-driven and leverages modern computational techniques, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, to maximize the scientific return from large astronomical datasets. Relevant research areas may include, but are not limited to, projects utilizing data from NASA -, NSF -, and DOE -supported supercomputing facilities and observatories, such as the Athena Supercomputer, Rubin Observatory, Roman Space Telescope, and Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument.

Candidates whose research complements and strengthens existing astronomy and astrophysics programs at the University of Kentucky ( https://pa.as.uky.edu/astro ) are especially encouraged to apply. Current departmental strengths include galaxy formation, stellar evolution, and the interstellar medium. The University is also home to the Cloudy Project, a widely used open-source spectral simulation code.

The successful candidate will demonstrate the potential to establish a sustained, externally funded research program and will be expected to contribute effectively to teaching, mentoring, and research training at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The successful candidate will also participate actively in departmental and university service. This is a nine-month appointment in the regular title series. The anticipated Distribution of Effort will be approximately 65% research, 25% teaching, and 10% departmental service.

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

The application deadline is December 1, 2026. This position will be open until filled.

Questions about the search may be directed to Dr. Yuanyuan Su ([e-mail]), Search Committee Chair, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Kentucky.

Employment at UK 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 .

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

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.

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