Assistant Professor in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physics

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) invites applications for two Tenure-track Assistant Professor positions in (1) experimental and (2) theoretical/computational Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physics beginning Fall 2026. This hiring initiative focuses on the areas of quantum optics, single-photon optics, and quantum information science (e.g., qubits). Candidates for these positions are expected to strengthen and complement our current AMO Physics research program. They will establish independent research programs that successfully attract extramural funding, actively contribute to departmental development, and engage in innovative teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The positions offer excellent start-up funds, salary, and laboratory space in a dynamic and highly interactive research environment. The Department of Physics and Astronomy maintains state-of-the-art facilities in AMO Physics. A Pioneer‑Two electron beam lithography and scanning electron microscope, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy system, physical property measurement system, cryogenic testing, RF measurement and design facilities, laser and optics laboratories, and metal, ABS and resin 3D printers are among the facilities open for collaboration. UTRGV is the newest member of the University of Texas System with major campuses in Brownsville, Edinburg, and Harlingen. The Department of Physics and Astronomy currently has 26 tenured/tenure‑track faculty members, 16 professional‑track faculty members, 29 graduate students, and 3 post‑doctoral scholars. The department has strong research programs in gravitational waves, radio and optical astronomy, applied optics and lasers, nanoscience, nanotechnology and nanophotonics, biophysics, condensed matter physics, computational physics, nuclear/high energy theory, and physics education. Six state‑of‑the‑art laboratories are funded by the NSF, NASA, DoD, US Air Force, and NIH. The department offers B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees. A Ph.D. in Physics or a related field and postdoctoral experience are required for both positions. Applicants should provide evidence of strong productivity and leadership in research. Externally funded research and teaching experience are considered a plus. Successful candidates will demonstrate potential for forming interdisciplinary collaborations, involving both undergraduate and graduate students in research activities, and a commitment to educating a diverse body of students in a Hispanic Serving Institution. The expected starting date of the positions is Fall 2026. Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy, and the names & contact information of at least three references. In addition, applicants should submit a detailed research plan, including major equipment and start‑up funding required for an operational laboratory. Letters of references will be requested from short‑listed candidates. Complete applications should be submitted online at http://careers.utrgv.edu, referring to Posting Number FRGV1916 (experimental AMO Physics) and FRGV1917 (theoretical/computational AMO Physics). Applications should be received by January 19, 2026, to receive full consideration. Evaluations of applicants will begin on January 20, 2026, and continue until the positions are filled. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is an affirmative action / equal opportunity employer. UTRGV is a Hispanic‑serving Institution dedicated to student success and building a diverse faculty committed to working in a multicultural environment. Women and minority candidates are especially encouraged to apply. These positions are security‑sensitive as defined by the Texas Education Code 51.215(c) and the Texas Government Codes 411.094 (a)(2). All UTRGV employees are required to have a criminal background check (CBC).

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