Assistant Professor in Quantum / AMO Physics, Department of Physics

The Department of Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the level of Assistant Professor. The Department is seeking individuals working in quantum science, with an emphasis in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics.

The University of California, Santa Barbara invites pioneering researchers to join its growing quantum research community as part of the Quantum Hiring Initiative. Building on a rich history of scientific breakthroughs - highlighted by the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics - this initiative brings together faculty across disciplines to advance the full spectrum of quantum science, from synthetic materials and superconducting qubits to quantum topology. Candidates will join a supportive, interdisciplinary ecosystem backed by premier facilities, including the NSF Quantum Foundry, the Eddleman Quantum Institute, and the Nanofabrication Facility, alongside strong connections to industry and national quantum initiatives.

To learn more about our existing faculty and research strengths, visit UCSB Quantum: Driving the Future of Quantum Science.

For details and to apply for these individual recruitments, please visit:

Quantum Faculty Positions in Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics | UCSB.

Information about the Department and its research activities may be found at Home | Department of Physics | UC Santa Barbara.

Experimentalists in the Department benefit from close connections with programs across campus, including at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics and the California NanoSystems Institute.

Responsibilities of faculty members generally include the development of an actively funded research program of high quality, teaching at undergraduate and/or graduate levels, mentorship of undergraduate students, recruitment, supervision, and mentorship of graduate students, and participation in university service and professional activities that meet expectations for faculty rank and step. UCSB has a strong tradition of collaborative research, and successful candidates will be able to leverage synergies across the campus as appropriate.

Applicants must have completed all requirements for a PhD (or equivalent) in Physics or a related field, except the dissertation, at the time of application.

PhD in Physics or a related field is required by appointment start date.

* Research in quantum science with emphasis in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics.

* A demonstrated record of excellence in research, as evidenced by high-quality publications and impact on the field.

* Record of, or potential for, outstanding teaching.

• 3-5 letters of reference required

Applicants should provide the names and contact information of at least 3 references and must request letters of references within the UC Recruit system in order to complete application requirements.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, students and third parties
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Additionally, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.