The Department of Physics & Astronomy at Vanderbilt University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in high-energy nuclear theory . We are particularly interested in candidates addressing fundamental questions about strongly interacting matter, from the emergence of collective behavior to the short-distance structure and dynamics of dense QCD matter. Areas of interest include QCD at finite temperature and density, systems near critical points and far from…
equilibrium, and probes of QCD matter across multiple scales. Approaches may include effective field theory and perturbative QCD, relativistic hydrodynamics and transport, lattice field theory, and quantum simulations.
The successful candidate will join a vibrant high-energy nuclear physics community at Vanderbilt, including a strong experimental program, offering significant opportunities for intellectual exchange across nuclear physics and related fields.
Responsibilities
- Establish and lead an independent, externally funded research program;
- Contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching in physics;
- Support the Arts & Science Core Curriculum;
- Mentor graduate students and postdoctoral scholars;
- Engage with Vanderbilt’s interdisciplinary research community and external partners, including Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Qualifications
• Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field, awarded no later than August 1, 2027.
• Demonstrated research excellence in theoretical physics, with expertise in one or more areas represented in the search;
• A strong research program addressing important questions in high-energy nuclear theory;
• Evidence of, or clear potential for, securing external research funding;
• Commitment to excellence in teaching and mentorship at all levels.
Application Instructions
Application Materials
Interested candidates should submit the following as a single PDF, or as specified by the application portal:
1. Cover letter;
2. Curriculum vitae, including a complete publication list;
3. Research statement (maximum 3 pages) summarizing key contributions and future research directions;
4. Teaching statement addressing classroom philosophy, curriculum development, and student/postdoctoral mentorship. Evidence of teaching effectiveness (e.g., course evaluations) must be included, if available;
5. Applicants should arrange for three letters of confidential recommendation to be uploaded via the same link.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted via https://apply.interfolio.com/193598.
Review Timeline: Review of applications will begin November 1st, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, please ensure all materials (including letters) are submitted by October 31st, 2026. Inquiries should be addressed to Professor Sait Umar: sait.a.umar@vanderbilt.edu.
EEO Statement
Vanderbilt University shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.