Research Assistant Professor

State of South Carolina; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of South Carolina invites applications for a Research Assistant Professor in CAS Physics and Astronomy. The position focuses on the synthesis of single crystal and polycrystalline materials, thin-film deposition, and micro/nano fabrication, with laboratory-based characterization.

The successful candidate will explore structure-property relationships and collaborate with experimental and theoretical researchers to develop novel functional materials.

Qualifications

• Expertise in material synthesis, thin film fabrication, characterization, and theoretical modeling.
• Must conduct business lawfully and ethically following compliance policies and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on synthesis of single crystal and polycrystalline materials, thin-film deposition, and micro/nano fabrication.
• Characterize materials using lab-based techniques to measure electrical, magnetic, optical, and thermal properties.
• Collaborate with experimental and theoretical researchers to develop structure-property relationships and novel functional materials.

Skills

Material synthesis

Thin film fabrication

Job description

Research Assistant Professor. Department: CAS Physics and Astronomy. Part/Full Time: Full Time. Advertised Salary Range: About UofSC.

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster, and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Advertised Job Summary. Under limited supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), this individual will conduct research on the synthesis of single crystal and polycrystalline materials, thin-film deposition, and micro/nano fabrication; characterise these materials using laboratory-based techniques to measure their electrical, magnetic, optical, and thermal properties; and collaborate with experimental and theoretical researchers to develop structure-property relationships and novel functional materials.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Expertise in material synthesis, thin film fabrication, characterization, and theoretical modeling.
• Required to conduct business lawfully and ethically by consistently adhering to compliance policies, procedures, and regulations.

Job Close Date: 11/12/2026. Please note that references will be contacted upon applying for the position. Positions are advertised for a minimum of forty-five (45) days on our job website. After forty-five (45) days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This position is open until filled. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending on a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email. We are only accepting applications submitted by November 12, 2026.

EEO Statement. The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.