Assistant Professor in Experimental Quantum Matter – Tenure-Track Full-time NEW

Assistant Professor in Experimental Quantum Matter

The Department of Physics at the University of Alberta invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Experimental Quantum Matter. Tenure-track appointments are usually made at the Assistant Professor level with an opportunity to apply for tenure in year five.

The Department of Physics houses approximately 48 faculty members covering condensed matter, AMO physics, astrophysics, space physics, biophysics, geophysics, and subatomic physics. Departmental laboratories are extensively equipped for ultrafast laser spectroscopy, scanning tunnelling microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, low-temperature cryogenic physics, cavity optomechanics, and ultracold atoms. Faculty members benefit from dedicated machine and electronics shops staffed by specialist technical personnel.

Key institutional research highlights include:

• NanoFAB Facility: Direct access to over $100M in state-of-the-art nanofabrication, microprocessing, and characterization cleanroom tools.
• Quantum Horizons Alberta (QHA): A landmark $25M Alberta-wide initiative dedicated to expanding fundamental quantum science research.
• NRC Quantum and Nanotechnologies Research Centre: Located directly adjacent to the Department of Physics on campus, offering collaborative research potential.
• High-Performance Computing: Extensive computational infrastructure provided via the Digital Research Alliance of Canada.

Candidates across all subfields of experimental condensed matter physics and atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics are encouraged to apply. Specific research areas of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Quantum Materials & Topological Systems: Synthesis, transport, and spectroscopic characterization of topological insulators, superconductors, and novel quantum states.
• Quantum Technologies & Quantum Optics: Development and demonstration of platforms for quantum communications, quantum computation, and/or quantum sensing.
• Light-Matter Interactions & Ultrafast Dynamics: Ultracold atomic ensembles, ultrafast spectroscopy, and non-equilibrium control of quantum phases.
• Low-Temperature Physics & Low-Dimensional Systems: Quantum fluids and solids, cryogenic measurements of 2D materials, and nanomechanical resonators.
• Nanoscience & Nanoscale Microscopy: Scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of novel matter.

Responsibilities include:

• Research Leadership: Develop an innovative, independent, and externally funded research program in experimental quantum matter.
• Student Mentorship: Supervise, mentor, and train graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduate researchers.
• Teaching Excellence: Teach physics courses effectively at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Institutional Service: Contribute active service and leadership to the Department, Faculty, and University communities.

Qualifications include:

• PhD in Physics or a closely related discipline at the time of appointment.
• Demonstrated track record of scientific accomplishment and research excellence in experimental quantum matter.
• Clear commitment to teaching excellence and mentorship for undergraduate and graduate students.

Application Instructions:

Click “Apply Now” and submit the following documents in a single consolidated PDF file:

1. Cover letter
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) with a complete list of publications
3. Research plan outlining proposed short-term and long-term experimental programs (5 pages maximum)
4. Statement of Teaching Interests and Philosophy (2 pages maximum)
5. Statement regarding Access, Community, and Belonging Philosophy (1 page maximum)
6. Confidential Letters of Reference: Applicants must arrange for at least three confidential letters of reference (at least one addressing teaching ability) to be sent directly to physref@ualberta.ca with the subject line “Experimental Quantum Matter Faculty Position”.

For priority consideration, complete applications must be received by Monday, December 14, 2026.

The successful candidate will be offered a tenure-track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor, including a comprehensive benefits package.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule A of the collective agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.

About the Team

The Faculty of Science is internationally recognized for excellence in research and education. Through pioneering discovery and innovation, the faculty addresses global challenges across disciplines such as biology, chemistry, computing science, physics, mathematics, and earth sciences. Its work positions the university at the forefront of technological, environmental, and scientific advancement.

About University of Alberta

The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs and research stations are primarily located on the territory of Néhiyaw (Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Nakoda (Stoney), Dene, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and Anishinaabe (Ojibway/Saulteaux), lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7 and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems and cultures of all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide. Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people – from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot be found, other individuals will be considered. At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms – physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns. The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply. L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.