Assistant Professor

Assistant Professor in Theoretical Physics

The Department of Physics at the University of Chicago, together with research institutes including the Enrico Fermi Institute and the James Franck Institute, is conducting a search at the rank of tenure-track Assistant Professor.

The search is open to all subfields of theoretical physics, including, but not limited to, high-energy theory, gravity, condensed matter theory, quantum information, and physics of learning and computation.

The Department members cover a wide range of research areas; details can be found at the Department website. The newly founded Leinweber Institute for Theoretical Physics fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration among theorists working on a wide range of problems. Research connected to the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and Argonne National Laboratory is encouraged. Duties include conducting an independent research program, and teaching and advising undergraduate and graduate students.

This position is benefits eligible. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook. This base pay range is for a nine-month academic appointment. Individuals may be eligible for summer salary. This position may be eligible for housing support and a taxable moving allowance.

Qualifications: Completion of all requirements for a Ph.D. in physics or a closely related field at the time of hire.

Application Instructions: Applicants must apply online through the University of Chicago Academic Careers website. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.

The following materials are required:

• cover letter;
• curriculum vitae including list of publications;
• research statement;
• description of teaching and mentoring philosophy and experience;
• applicants are required to request three confidential letters of recommendation via Interfolio

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io with their request.

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.