Assistant Professor-Atomic Physics Theory - Department of Physics
The University of California, Berkeley
About this position
Position Overview
Position title: Atomic Physics Theory Salary range: The current salary range for this position is $84,800–$132,900 (9-month academic year salary), however, off-scale salary and other components of pay, which would yield compensation that is higher than this range, are offered to meet competitive conditions. Current salary scales can be viewed here. Anticipated start: July 1, 2027 or later
Application Deadline
Open date: September 17, 2026 Next review date:Sunday, Nov 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee. Final date: Sunday, Nov 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date.
Position Description
The Physics Department at the University of California, Berkeley is conducting search for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Theoretical Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physics. We welcome applicants from across the full range of theoretical AMO sub-fields, including quantum optics, quantum simulation, connections to quantum information science, emergent phenomena and entangled systems, precision measurement and tests of fundamental physics, ultracold molecules and chemistry, ultrafast optics, and related areas. Candidates with the potential for both fundamental contributions to theory and strong synergy with experimental AMO research are particularly encouraged to apply. Berkeley Physics is conducting two other tenure-track faculty searches. If your research area overlaps with another search, candidates should submit applications to each relevant search separately. Please note that applications cannot be transferred between searches. Berkeley Physics and its partners are committed to establishing cultures that nurture scientific identity and remove barriers to entry to strengthen pathways into careers. To that end, we strive to work and learn together in a positive and inclusive environment. Please visit UC Berkeley Physics' Equity & Inclusion website for more information. Berkeley Physics has a long history of excellence in teaching, research, and service, as well as a culture that values and promotes interdisciplinarity. It has a compelling record of national and global engagement, and benefits from strong relationships with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and other research labs and industry. UC Berkeley values the family needs of faculty, including dual career couples, single parents, or those who may have taken time off for family reasons. For information about potential relocation to Berkeley, or career needs of accompanying partners and spouses, please visit the Office for Faculty Equity and Welfare's website."
Qualifications
Basic qualifications(required at time of application)Applicants must have a Ph.D. (or equivalent international degree) or be enrolled in a Ph.D. or equivalent international degree-granting program at the time of application. Preferred qualificationsWe seek candidates who will develop impactful and novel research programs, who will commit to excellence in undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate education, and who will contribute to broader campus goals of mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Application Requirements
Document requirementsCover Letter Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V. List of Publications Statement of Research - Please discuss research accomplishments and proposed plans. This can include, for example, your publication record, awards, presentations, inclusive research practices that promote the excellence of your research, and areas for future research. Statement of Teaching and Mentoring - Please discuss prior teaching experience, teaching approach, and future teaching interests. This can include, for example, specific efforts and accomplishments, and future plans to support the success of all students through inclusive curriculum, classroom environment, and pedagogy. Please also discuss your mentoring experiences and approach. This can include, for example, past efforts and future plans to support the success of all students, and to foster an inclusive research environment that removes barriers and promotes equitable access and advancement of the research program. Statement of Service - Please discuss specific prior and proposed academic, professional and/or public service activities. This can include, for example, participating in professional or scientific associations, serving on committees that advance department, campus or discipline goals, and conducting outreach activities that can remove barriers and increase participation of academics in your field. Syllabi/Course Information - Please submit course syllabi or course materials that showcase your teaching experience or future teaching plans. For applicants with prior teaching experience: You may provide materials from previous courses, such as syllabi, course website links, video recordings of your teaching (attached or linked online), created instructional materials (e.g., homework assignments, projects, lecture slides, handouts, exams), student evaluations (including comments), or peer evaluations. For applicants without prior teaching experience: You may provide proposed syllabi, course outlines, sample teaching materials, or proposed course descriptions for courses you would be interested in teaching. Authorization to Release Information Form - An institutional reference check will be completed only if you are selected as the candidate to whom the hiring unit would like to extend a formal offer. Download, complete, sign, and upload the Authorization to Release Information form. Reference requirements 3-5 letters of reference required For references, please ask three references who know you to submit letters by the application deadline. APRecruit will solicit letters for reviewers to upload. Apply link:https://aprecruit.berkeley.edu/JPF05460 Help contact:physicsap@berkeley.edu