Description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Georgia invites applications for two assistant research scientist positions with an anticipated start date of August 1, 2025.

Candidates for either position should hold a Ph.D. in one of the physical sciences or in engineering, with a strong background in relevant quantum science research.  A minimum of two years of experimental research experience is required.  Competitive applicants should have experimental skills from several of the following categories:

• Nano-optical measurements such as tip-based techniques and optical measurements of solids or solid-state quantum photonic systems (such as single photon sources, quantum sensors, etc.);
• AFM and other scanning probe methods;
• Laser instrumentation;
• Optical/optoelectronic measurements under low temperatures;
• Device fabrication, lithography techniques, fabricating/transferring 2D materials and Van der Waals heterostructures and neuromorphic nanodevices.

Applicants should have strong verbal and written communication skills, enabling them to effectively mentor students at various levels of experience and aptitude.  They should also possess excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work independently and creatively.

The first position (Research Scientist I) will conduct and support experimental research in quantum science. In particular, the successful candidate will collaborate with UGA faculty and researchers on cutting-edge projects in experimental neuromorphic systems based on quantum materials, nano-optics, strongly correlated systems, and van der Waals materials, as well as participate in the NSF-funded Quantum Networks Training and Research Alliance in the Southeast (QuaNTRASE). The candidate will also be responsible for maintaining instrumentation and mentoring students at various levels.

The second position (Research Scientist II) will conduct and support experimental research in quantum science. In particular, the successful candidate will collaborate with UGA faculty and researchers on cutting-edge projects in experimental nano-optics. The candidate will also be responsible for fostering research collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners, driving the development of new technologies and methodologies. In addition, the position includes maintaining and optimizing advanced research instrumentation, ensuring the lab operates at the highest level of technical capability. The candidate will also play a key role in mentoring and training undergraduate and graduate students, as well as postdoctoral researchers, helping to build a strong, interdisciplinary research team.

The Department, which currently has 23 faculty members, 10 of whom work in the area of nanoscience and condensed matter physics, has extensive collaborations in the Department of Chemistry, the School of Engineering, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, including a quantum network graduate student training program. The University of Georgia is a member of the Battelle Savannah River Alliance managing and operating the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL). Researchers have the opportunity to build collaborations with SRNL research staff as well as leverage co-located facilities such as the planned DOE Advanced Manufacturing Cooperative, which will include cutting-edge materials modeling and simulations.

Candidates should submit a cover letter with a brief summary of their scientific background, strengths,

plan, and any teaching experience; a complete curriculum vitae; and a statement of research interests. These application materials must be submitted electronically at https://www.ugajobsearch.com/postings/406103.  In addition, applicants should arrange for three letters of recommendation to be emailed directly by the reference to the search committee chair, Prof. Yohannes Abate (Yohannes.Abate@uga.edu).  Any questions regarding this position should be directed to Prof. Abate.

All applications received by January 1, 2025 [NV1] will receive full consideration; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, its many units, and the University of Georgia are committed to multidisciplinary research, collaboration, academic innovation, and to sustaining a work and learning environment that is inclusive. The University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).