MSE Tenure-Track Positions 2025 - 2026

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Open Date: Oct 06, 2025

Deadline: December 1, 2025

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering is engaged in a multi-year hiring effort for tenure-track professors whose interests are aligned with the School of Engineering and Applied Science's strategic plan.

Applicants from all materials-related research areas are invited to apply, with particular interest in candidates who develop and/or use artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning tools for new quantum materials discovery, synthesis, characterization, and applications with precisely controlled responses to external fields. Penn Engineering has signature initiatives in Data Science, Quantum devices and engineering (QUIEST), and Energy and Sustainability, as well as world-class facilities at the Singh Center for Nanotechnology and the Laboratory for Research on the Structure of Matter.

We seek individuals who are committed to nurturing and building our scholarly community, participating in departmental, school-level, and university-level efforts, and working closely with students to identify and address challenges.

Penn Engineering strongly supports dual career couples and welcomes inquiries about dual career assistance.

Quantum Materials Discovery, Synthesis, and Characterization for Advanced Applications

The discovery, development, and characterization of new materials is crucial for advancing electronic, optoelectronic, energy, and quantum technologies. We seek candidates with expertise in developing modern tools involving artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning algorithms for new quantum materials discovery.

Areas of interest include:

• Autonomous and AI-driven approaches to materials discovery and optimization
• Data-driven design and synthesis of bulk crystals, epitaxial growth of complex heterostructures, and thin film deposition techniques
• Scalable methods for producing low-dimensional materials
• Predicting and controlling material composition, structure, and properties at multiple length scales
• Bridging fundamental materials science with applications in electronics, photonics, and quantum engineering

The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in predicting and controlling material composition, structure, and properties. Candidates should have a strong background in materials theory, synthesis, and/or characterization.

Prof. Ritesh Agarwal chairs this search committee. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

Qualifications

Must have a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering or related disciplines.

Application Instructions

Applications must be submitted online via Interfolio. Applications include: Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae, Research statement (5-page limit), Teaching statement (2-page limit), and Three confidential letters of recommendation.

To apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/175136.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer.