Two Tenure-Track Faculty Positions in Quantum Physics, Department of Physics and Astronomy - UT

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking a Tenure‑track faculty in Physics to start on January 1 or August 1, 2027. This position involves building a new interdisciplinary PhD and undergraduate program in Quantum Information Science and Engineering, with emphasis on either strong experimental backgrounds or theoretical approaches.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Physics and strive toward a balance between teaching and research while fostering collaboration within the campus community. Prior teaching experience is advantageous, and applications must be submitted by September 8, 2026.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. must be completed by the start date.
• Balance between teaching and research is essential.
• Engagement in various teaching methods is required.

Responsibilities

• Build a new interdisciplinary PhD and undergraduate program in Quantum Information Science.
• Establish and maintain a productive research program.
• Deliver physics courses at undergraduate and graduate levels.

Skills

Ph.D. in Physics or related field

Postdoctoral research experience

Prior teaching experience

Research program development

Engagement in diverse teaching methods

Education

Ph.D. in Physics or related field

Job description

Description

Position: Tenure‑track faculty in Physics to build a new interdisciplinary PhD and undergraduate program in Quantum Information Science and Engineering. Level: Assistant Professor or Associate Professor (pre‑tenure) starting January 1 or August 1, 2027. One position requires a strong experimental background with emphasis on quantum sensing and networking; the other is open to any area of Quantum Information Science (theoretical or experimental).

Senior candidates are encouraged to apply for the Governor’s Chair position (separate search). The department is also hiring Research Faculty to support the Quantum Center.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field, completed by the start date.
• Postdoctoral research experience strongly preferred.
• Prior teaching experience advantageous.
• Balance between teaching and research; assist in delivering a broad range of QISE and general physics courses at undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Establish and maintain a productive research program involving undergraduate and graduate students.
• Opportunities for collaboration within the campus community, including the Quantum Center and external institutions such as Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Chattanooga Quantum Collaborative.
• Engage in various teaching methods, including online instruction, to support UTC's strategic goals.

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit a single PDF file electronically through the UTC Faculty Career Site. The PDF file should be named “First name Last name Application” (e.g., Jane Smith Application) and must include:

• A letter of interest.
• Current curriculum vitae (including names, titles, and email addresses for three professional references on the last page).
• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
• A one‑page statement of teaching philosophy.
• A description of research interests, including research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students (no more than three pages).

Complete applications received by September 8, 2026 will receive full consideration. Review of applications will continue until the positions are filled.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Tennessee is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution in the provision of its education and employment programs and services. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.

Inquiries and charges of violation of Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, ADA, ADEA, sexual orientation, or veteran status should be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Accessibility at (423) 425‑5824. Requests for accommodation of a disability should be directed to the ADA Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Accessibility at (423) 425‑5760.