Assistant Professor

Position Description
The Department of Physics at Cornell University invites applications for a tenure-track appointment at the assistant professor level in experimental quantum physics. The appointment is anticipated to begin July 1, 2027.

The search is open to all areas of experimental quantum science. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, quantum materials and their synthesis; quantum sensing and measurement, including the development of new probes and instrumentation; quantum devices and computing; and quantum systems based on trapped ions, ultracold atoms and molecules, photons, or other platforms.

Candidates must hold a doctorate in physics or a closely related field. They must have demonstrated an ability to conduct outstanding research and show promise for future excellence in research and teaching within the Department of Physics. They should be committed to contributing to Cornell’s academic excellence and community.

The Cornell University Department of Physics includes more than 40 active faculty members, approximately 150 graduate students, and approximately 80 undergraduate majors. Research in the department is organized through two laboratories: Laboratory of Atomic and Solid State Physics (LASSP) and the Laboratory for Elementary-Particle Physics (LEPP). We value interdisciplinary research and there are strong ties between the two laboratories and with the rest of Cornell, including the Department of Applied and Engineering Physics and the Department of Astronomy. The physics department plays an important role in the Kavli Center for Nanoscience, and the Cornell Center for Material Research. We boast access to cutting edge facilities including the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source and the Cornell Nanoscale Facility. Our faculty are located in the Physical Science complex (Clark Hall and the Physical Sciences Building) on the Ithaca campus of Cornell University.

Applications must include:

•A curriculum vitae

•A cover letter

•A publication list

•A research statement ( ~ 4 pages)

•A teaching and mentoring statement (~ 1 page)

•Candidates should also arrange for at least three letters of recommendation.

The research statement should summarize the candidate’s prior work and describe their plans for an independent research program. It should explain the importance of the candidate’s research, disambiguate their role in multi-author publications, and present both a short-term and long-term vision.

The teaching/mentoring statement should give an account of prior teaching and mentoring experience and describe the candidate’s approach, philosophy, and ambitions, and how they have contributed or plan to contribute to the academic community through teaching, mentoring, service, or outreach.

Review of applications will begin November 1, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.

Disclosure: Consistent with Cornell’s practice, appointments to academic positions require candidates to disclose relevant information about their prior employment including whether they have been found to have violated institutional or employer policies related to or governing unlawful discrimination and harassment, academic and research misconduct, or financial misconduct.

Pay Range: $83,200 - $226,200 Actual salary offers in the College of Arts and Sciences will be based on education, experience, discipline, and relevant skills.
Employment Assistance:

For specific questions about the position or application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or for general questions email [email protected] .

If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell Office of Civil Rights at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at [email protected] .

Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. 

Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement by clicking here . This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant.

EEO Statement:

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. 

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and  encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Pay Ranges:

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience.
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
• Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
• Unique applicable skills.