Assistant Professor in Theoretical Quantum Information Science

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) Department of Physics invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor in theoretical quantum information science, broadly defined, to begin in or before August 2024. Exceptional candidates at the associate professor level will also be considered. Research interest in quantum cryptography, quantum computing, quantum communication, or other areas related to quantum cybersecurity is desirable. Candidates should have a PhD in Physics. We seek candidates who have the capacity to establish a vigorous, externally funded research program and who will also contribute to the diversity and excellence of the department in teaching, mentoring, and service. This position is part of a multi-year, campus-wide, and state-supported hiring initiative to develop the UMBC Cybersecurity Institute (UCI). The UCI builds upon a strong foundation established under the UMBC Cybersecurity Center (UCYBR) over the past decade, and today comprising over thirty faculty members from six departments across all colleges at UMBC. UCI-affiliated faculty members will have a tenure/tenure-track appointment in their respective home department but are expected to collaborate across disciplines to develop as part of a cohort of new faculty members with complementary expertise in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity. UMBC is a Carnegie Foundation R1 ( Doctoral University with Very High Research Activity) institution, located within seven miles of downtown Baltimore, MD.  The University has over 14,000 students, including 3,600 graduate students and routinely ranks among of the top institutions in the nation for undergraduate teaching and innovation in U.S. News and World Report.  UMBC is especially proud of its diverse student population, and it is designated a minority-serving institution (MSI) by the U.S. Department of Education. Details on UMBC’s research profile are available online . The Department of Physics currently consists of 19 tenure-track and 6 research faculty, 4 full-time lecturers, 56 PhD students and 120 undergraduate majors. The department offers a BS and BA in Physics, and PhD degrees in Physics and in Atmospheric Physics. For more information, see https://physics.umbc.edu/ . The Physics Department is committed to the UMBC mission of inclusion and in creating a collegial environment where all faculty members can achieve excellence. We are particularly interested in candidates who demonstrate an active commitment to inclusion of underserved and/or underrepresented populations in research, teaching, leadership, and service. The Department of Physics has an active Graduate Women in Physics group and an Undergraduate Women and Gender Minorities in Physics group and has ties with the nationally acclaimed Meyerhoff Scholars Program. Information on faculty diversity initiatives and faculty groups is available at https://facultydiversity.umbc.edu , and information on the resources provided to help balance work and personal priorities are available at https://hr.umbc.edu/work-life-balance/ . UMBC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and other traditionally under-represented groups in the sciences are especially encouraged. As an institution that receives federal financial assistance, UMBC adheres to Title IX and does not discriminate on the basis of sex. Information about Title IX and contact information for the Title IX Coordinator is available at: https://oei.umbc.edu/ . A PhD in Physics or in a closely related field is required.   Interested candidates should upload an application letter, a CV, detailed research and teaching plans, a statement of commitment to inclusive excellence in higher education, and the names and addresses of at least three references on the Interfolio website at http://apply.interfolio.com/131555. The inclusive excellence statement should include an explanation of the candidate?s commitment and demonstrated or potential ability to contribute to diversity, inclusion, and equity in teaching, mentoring, recruiting, and departmental climate. Applications will be received until a suitable candidate is identified. Applications submitted by January 15, 2024 will receive full consideration. UMBC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.