BCAS - Assistant Professor in Precision Timing, Physics & Astronomy - 529953

BCAS - Assistant Professor in Precision Timing, Physics & Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Alabama is seeking applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in physics related to precision timing, quantum photonics, and positioning, navigation, and timing.

We are especially interested in candidates who use precision time and frequency science as a foundation for new photonic, quantum, and precision navigation and timing (PNT) systems. Particularly competitive research programs will connect physics to deployable hardware, including quantum photonic interconnects, integrated optical or electro-optic devices, clock-interface hardware, photonic microwave systems, timing transfer, synchronization, resilient PNT, or sensing and communication systems for space, hypersonic, or GNSS-denied environments.

Candidates with expertise in atomic, molecular, and optical physics, optical clocks, spectroscopy, precision metrology, quantum sensing, or applied photonics are also strongly encouraged to apply, particularly where that work connects to practical timing, navigation, or quantum-system challenges.

This position is intended to strengthen the University of Alabama's growing precision navigation, timing, and frequency program by building on substantial existing infrastructure, equipment, sponsored research activity, and interdisciplinary collaborations in timing, navigation, hypersonics, quantum systems, and space PNT. The successful candidate will be positioned to develop an externally funded research program that connects fundamental physics to mission-relevant timing, navigation, sensing, communications, and synchronization hardware while engaging with the Alabama Collaborative for Contemporary Education in Precision Timing (ACCEPT), faculty across Physics and Astronomy, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics, Computer Science, Materials Science, and related units, and the broad ecosystem of companies, defense laboratories, and government partners associated with the program's advisory board.

The minimum qualifications for this position are a Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field, postdoctoral or comparable research experience, scholarly publications, and research experience relevant to precision timing, quantum photonics, PNT, optical or atomic systems, or closely related areas. Candidates are expected to demonstrate the potential to develop a high-quality, externally funded research program and to contribute effectively to teaching and mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Applicants with academic, industrial, national laboratory, or government research experience are encouraged to apply.

Applications review will begin August 15, 2026 and process will continue until the position is filled. Applications should consist of a curriculum vitae, including a complete list of publications; a research statement describing current accomplishments and future plans; a teaching statement; and contact information for at least three references. Applicants should submit materials online through the University of Alabama faculty jobs website.

For additional information, contact the search committee chair, Prof. Adam Hauser, Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Alabama.

The J. Frank Barefield Jr. College of Arts and Sciences at The University of Alabama offers an exciting and dynamic environment for faculty seeking to make an impact in their field and in the lives of the innovators and changemakers of tomorrow. As the largest college at The University, we house over 9,000 students and 1,000 faculty and staff across our 22 departments.

With nationally recognized programs and award-winning faculty, our College has positioned itself as a leader in higher education. Our facilities and resources include state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and performance venues, providing students with hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for research and creative expression. The College is committed to the liberal arts philosophy that fosters creative and critical thinking and a lifetime of…