Tenure-Track Position in Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics at the Assistant Professor Level

Materials Research Society; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Illinois Chicago invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position in theoretical condensed matter physics, with emphasis on quantum materials and AI/ML-based discovery. The candidate will develop AI-enhanced modeling, large-scale simulations, and predictive approaches for quantum information science.

The successful candidate will collaborate with existing theory and experiment groups, work within the LAS and Physics departments, and benefit from substantial

Qualifications

• PhD in physics or related field required.
• Post-PhD experience preferred.
• Applications require three reference letters.

Education

PhD in physics or related field

Job description

The Department of Physics and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) invite applications for a tenure-track position in theoretical condensed matter physics at the Assistant Professor level. The emphasis of this search is to strengthen the Department's efforts in theoretical condensed matter research in quantum materials. The anticipated start date is Fall 2027.

The open faculty position is in the field of computational quantum materials, with an emphasis on incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) methods. We seek a researcher who will develop new computational approaches that combine physics-based modeling, large-scale simulation, and AI/ML to discover and design materials with quantum properties. The overall objective is to develop predictive and experimentally testable approaches to the discovery, understanding, and engineering of quantum materials, including materials and structures relevant to qubits, quantum sensing, and other quantum technologies, with an emphasis on applications in quantum information science (QIS).

Research directions may include:

• Physics-informed, AI/ML-guided discovery and design of materials exhibiting desirable quantum properties.
• Advanced computational approaches to model realistic quantum materials, such as correlated or topological systems, engineered quantum systems and heterostructures, as well as low-dimensional systems relevant to QIS.

The successful candidate should be able to collaborate with existing condensed matter theoretical and experimental groups in the Department of Physics. The materials and condensed matter faculty conduct research on a wide range of functional and complex materials, including energy-relevant, quantum, topological, superconducting, and strongly correlated systems. A fuller description of the research programs in the Department of Physics can be found at phys.uic.edu

UIC offers a strong infrastructure for computational and experimental materials research, including advanced characterization core facilities and substantial high-performance computing capabilities that support large-scale simulations and data-intensive research. The Chicago region has become a national leader in QIS research, supported by robust academic, state, federal, and industrial investments. Existing programs include the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems (SQMS) Center, the FermiForward partnership, and the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE). UIC is well positioned to play a leading role in this ecosystem.

The minimum qualification for the position is a Ph.D. in physics or a related field, or an international equivalent. Post-Ph.D. experience is preferred. Applicants who are confirmed to meet the minimum qualifications will be requested to provide contact information for at least three reference letters. Applications must be completed by November 16, 2026, to receive full consideration. Final authorization of the position is subject to the availability of funding.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents. The budgeted salary range for the position is $100,000 to $120,000.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.