Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in Observational Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in any area of observational and/or experimental astronomy and astrophysics. We seek a scientist who will establish an innovative, independent research program, pursue external research support, teach undergraduate and graduate courses, and contribute to departmental and university service.

Applicants using observational or experimental methods at any wavelength or with any astronomical messenger, from the ground or from space, are encouraged to apply. We welcome candidates involved in current and future NSF/DOE facilities, NASA missions, and those advancing ground- and space-based telescopes and instruments. Research programs may span leadership roles in instrument design and development, surveys, observing methods, and data analysis.

UCI has a broad astronomy community with strong connections to cosmology and astroparticle physics. Faculty research spans exoplanets, galaxies, black holes, galaxy clusters, dark matter, dark energy and high-energy astrophysics, as well as telescope and instrument development. UCI is a member of University of California Observatories, with astronomers conducting research using Keck and Lick observatories, space telescopes and large astronomical surveys. The department offers an astronomy and astrophysics concentration in its physics Ph.D. program and an astrophysics specialization for physics majors.

The University of California is one of the premier public university systems in the world. UC Irvine is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), is ranked as a top-ten public university by U.S. News & World Report, and was ranked the top public university in California for economic diversity in The New York Times’ 2023 College Access Index. UCI is a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). These federal designations align with UCI’s aspiration to be a national leader and global model of inclusive excellence. UCI is four miles from the Pacific Ocean and 45 miles south of Los Angeles. Irvine offers a pleasant year-round climate and numerous recreational and cultural opportunities.

Please submit your application online through UCI Academic Personnel Recruit by December 1, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately after the deadline and continue until the position is filled.