Assistant Professor in Astrophysics

Position Description

The Department of Physics in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Florida has an opening for a full-time (1.0 FTE), nine-month, tenure-accruing Assistant Professor in experimental particle astrophysics to begin August 16, 2027.

We seek highly qualified candidates from areas related to current and novel experimental dark matter direct detection searches. This position offers the opportunity to interact with and build upon the Department’s extensive research efforts in related and complementary directions, including dark matter detection (ADMX, ALPS, SuperCDMS), experimental particle physics (Belle II, COHERENT, CMS, DUNE, SBND), gravitational wave detection (LIGO, LISA, NANOGrav), theoretical astrophysics, and condensed matter physics. It also provides access to the world-class HiPerGator research computing center.

The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. degree. Potential for establishing a well-recognized research program, excellence in teaching, and mentoring undergraduate and graduate student body is essential. Relevant postdoctoral research experience is preferred.

Applications must be submitted online at https://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/en-us/job/541316/assistant-professor-astrophysics and should include: (1) a cover letter, (2) a curriculum vitae with publication list, (3) a research statement, (4) a teaching statement (in which you are welcome to discuss outreach activities and other contributions you have undertaken to enhance student experience), (5) a statement of broader impacts (as described by the National Science Foundation) of past or planned future activities, (6) at least three confidential letters of reference. Reference providers will only be notified and provided an upload link once the application is submitted in full, so early completion of an application is highly recommended.

To ensure full consideration, applications and letters of reference must be submitted by November 8, 2026. Applications must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date. For more information, please contact Prof. Tarek Saab (tsaab@ufl.edu).

The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. UF offers a strong benefits package for eligible faculty appointments, including health insurance, paid leave (as applicable), and retirement options.

UF is the state’s oldest, largest, and most comprehensive land grant university with an enrollment of over 50,000 students and was ranked 7th in the country among public universities (US News and World Report 2025 rankings), and 1st among public institutions in the Wall Street Journal 2023 survey. UF is located in Gainesville, a city of approximately 150,000 residents in North-Central Florida, 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, and 67 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, and within a 2-hour drive to large metropolitan areas (Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville). The beautiful climate and extensive nearby parks and recreational areas afford year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and nature photography. UF’s large college sports programs, museums, and performing arts center support a range of activities and cultural events for residents to enjoy. Alachua County schools are highly rated and offer a variety of programs including magnet schools and an international baccalaureate program.