Project Scientist Series in Physics and Astronomy; Search

Position overview

Position title: Assistant, Associate, and Full Project Scientists

Salary range: $76,700 to $201,900

Open date: February 20, 2026

Next review date: Friday, Mar 6, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of California, Riverside anticipates openings for appointments in the Project Scientist Series.

Project Scientists are expected to make significant and creative contributions to research or scholarly projects within their academic discipline. While they do not typically serve as principal investigators, they play a critical role in advancing research through their specialized expertise. In addition, Project Scientists may engage in University and public service.

Candidates should possess a broad range of knowledge and technical competency, extensive work experience (e.g., postdoctoral training), and a strong publication record in their field. Appointment and advancement in this series are based on professional achievements and the impact of their technical contributions to the respective research field.

Appointments may be made on a full-time, part-time, or without‑salary basis. Initial appointments are typically for one year, with the possibility of renewal. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. The current base pay range for this position is $76,700 to $201,900.

Basic qualifications (required at time of application):
This position requires a Ph.D. degree or its equivalent.

Preferred qualifications
:
Candidates should possess a broad range of knowledge and technical competency, extensive work experience (e.g., postdoctoral training), and a strong publication record in their field.

• Curriculum Vitae (required)
• Cover Letter (optional)
• Contact information for three references (required)

3 letters of reference are required. Please provide the contact information for a minimum of three references. A UC Recruit system generated email will be sent to all references requesting their letter of recommendation. The confidential reference letters will be part of your application.

To apply , please submit the following materials to /JPF
02223 .

Review of applications will begin on 03/06/2026.

For questions regarding application procedures or requirements, please contact Ashleigh Bennett, Academic Personnel, nett .

Riverside, CA

The University of California, Riverside is a world‑class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) and the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU). A commitment to the UCR mission  is a preferred qualification.

We seek to hire scholars who will both advance our research directions and effectively educate our undergraduate and graduate students, while also engaging with University and Professional service activities. Research and teaching statements that are included with application materials are opportunities for candidates to share knowledge, experience, and goals that support the mission of UCR. For more information on UC's criteria for successful faculty, refer to the Academic Personnel Manual (APM) 210 - Criteria for Appointment, Promotion, and Appraisal https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under state or federal law. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake…