Posting Details

Posting Number

F2812P

Working Title

Assistant Research Scientist

Department

Franklin-Physics & Astronomy

About the University of Georgia

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department

The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is the heart of UGA's learning environment, advancing knowledge, research, and creative activity across more than 40 departments, schools, and institutes. With a vision for high-impact research and education, Franklin College prepares students for leadership and global engagement in a sustainable future. The College has a strong commitment to multidisciplinary research, collaboration, and academic innovation.

College/Unit/Department website

https://www.physast.uga.edu/

Posting Type

External

Retirement Plan

Employment Type

Employee

Benefits Eligibility

Benefits Eligible

Underutilization

Advertised Salary

Anticipated Start Date

01/01/2027

Effective End Date (for Limited-Term postings)

Job Posting Date

09/21/2026

Job Closing Date

Open until filled

Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants should submit a cover letter describing their qualifications and research interests, a curriculum vitae, a brief research statement, and contact information for three professional references.

Location of Vacancy

Athens Area

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Position Details

Position Information

Classification Title

Researcher AC

FLSA

Faculty Rank

Assistant Research Scientist

Contract Type

Academic (9 mo.)

Tenure Status

Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering, chemistry, or a closely related field.

Position Summary

Research faculty-level position in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Georgia supporting an active interdisciplinary experimental research program spanning quantum materials, nano/quantum-optics, neuromorphic devices, nano/microfluidics, soft materials, polymers, and liquid-phase spectroscopies. We seek a highly motivated experimental scientist with expertise in one or more areas including nano- and microfluidic device design and fabrication, polymer and soft-material synthesis and device integration, liquid-phase optical and vibrational spectroscopy, nano-optical characterization, and functional materials. The successful candidate will conduct high-level experimental research; develop and implement novel experimental platforms integrating fluidics, materials, devices, and spectroscopy; and maintain and operate advanced instrumentation. Research opportunities include liquid-phase nano-optics and spectroscopy, polymer and soft-material devices, ionically and chemically responsive systems, neuromorphic devices, quantum and strongly correlated materials, and van der Waals materials. The Research Scientist will also contribute to the NSF -funded Quantum Networks Training and Research Alliance in the Southeast (QuaNTRASE), participate in research proposals and publications, and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.

The position is particularly suited for a scientist with strong experimental and technical expertise who can work independently while collaborating with faculty, students, and multidisciplinary research teams. Responsibilities include conducting advanced experiments, maintaining research productivity, supporting specialized instrumentation, coordinating research activities, preparing manuscripts and proposals, and providing technical guidance to students. The position is expected to play an important role in sustaining and expanding UGA's experimental quantum-science program and in strengthening research and student training in emerging quantum and neuromorphic technologies.

Additional Requirements

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Applicants should have a strong record of experimental research and scholarly publications. Demonstrated ability in one or more of the following areas is particularly desirable: nano-optics and near-field optical microscopy, quantum materials, neuromorphic materials and devices, strongly correlated materials, van der Waals materials, optical spectroscopy, or advanced nanoscale characterization. Demonstrated ability operating and developing sophisticated experimental instrumentation and mentoring graduate or undergraduate researchers is also highly desirable.

Physical Demands

Is this a Position of Trust?

No

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?

No

Does this position require a P-Card?

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?

No

Is driving a responsibility of this position?

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)

No

Credit and P-Card policy

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter
3. List of References with Contact Information
4. Research Portfolio/Philosophy

Optional Documents