"Tenure-Track/Tenured QHA Faculty Positions in Theoretical Quantum Physics"

About the Team

The Faculty of Science is internationally recognized for excellence in research and education. Through pioneering discovery and innovation, the faculty addresses global challenges across disciplines such as biology, chemistry, computing science, physics, mathematics, and earth sciences. Its work positions the university at the forefront of technological, environmental, and scientific advancement.

Quantum Horizons Alberta (QHA) was established in 2023 as an Alberta-wide initiative to expand our foundational knowledge of quantum science, to pursue transformational research into the potential of quantum physics, and to enhance Alberta's stature as a globally recognized jurisdiction for quantum research and innovation. Initiated by a $12-million gift from a group of visionary donors, QHA is a $25-million centre of excellence that will build on and increase Alberta's considerable capacity in quantum research through a partnership with the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and the University of Lethbridge.

Description

The Department of Physics invites applications for tenure-track/tenured QHA faculty positions in theoretical quantum physics. While the QHA focus at the University of Alberta is Quantum Matter, all subfields will be considered. We will also consider applications from candidates whose research interests overlap with the Quantum Matter focus, but from the fields of subatomic physics or quantum chemistry. Exceptional candidates at a more senior level will also be considered.

The Department of Physics has approximately 48 faculty with research interests in condensed matter physics, astrophysics, biophysics, geophysics and subatomic physics. Our condensed matter theory group currently focuses on superconductivity, topological quantum materials, computational physics, and quantum simulation. Our experimental condensed matter group is well equipped with labs for ultrafast laser spectroscopy, scanning tunnelling microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, low-temperature physics, cavity optomechanics, and ultracold atoms; as well as $100M+ in equipment at the university's characterization and fabrication facility (nanoFAB). The National Research Council (NRC), located next door to the physics building, also houses a number of condensed matter labs. Access to high-performance computing resources is available through the Digital Research Alliance of Canada. Initiatives by the Governments of Alberta and Canada provide exceptional opportunities for additional funding to establish new research programs at the University of Alberta.

The Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, and the University of Alberta are committed to access, community and belonging, as documented in Changing the Story and our Indigenous Strategic Plan.

Responsibilities

• Develop an innovative and externally funded research program in theoretical quantum physics
• Build an exceptional, independent research program
• Supervise graduate students
• Teach physics at the undergraduate and graduate levels

Qualifications

• Applicants must possess a PhD in physics (or related field) and will develop an innovative and externally-funded research program in theoretical quantum physics.
• The successful candidate will be expected to build an exceptional, independent research program, supervise graduate students and teach physics at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
• QHA also provides research support to its faculty members with funding for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, research infrastructure, travel and collaboration across all three QHA nodes, and participation in QHA seminars, summer schools, and conferences.

Application Instructions

• Please submit the following as separate documents by clicking the "Apply Now" button below:
• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• List of Publications
• Research Statement
• Statement of Teaching - Teaching profile outlining your experience and interests

Throughout their application, we ask applicants to describe their plans for helping to reduce inequities, remove barriers to access, and cultivate a sense of belonging in their teaching, research, mentorship, and service.

We also require at least three confidential letters of reference, one of which addresses the candidate’s teaching ability. The referees should submit their letters to physref@ualberta.ca.

Applications will begin being reviewed on December 8, 2025. The competition will remain open until January 5, 2026.