The Department of Physics at California State University, Fullerton, invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in experimental physics with expertise in optics/quantum optics with an appointment to begin Fall 2027.
Position
Optics and quantum optics encompass the study and application of light and its interactions with matter, ranging from classical optical phenomena to effects that require a quantum-mechanical description. Research in these broadly defined fields may include the generation, manipulation, propagation, detection, and characterization of light; light–matter interactions; lasers and photonics; spectroscopy and imaging; nonlinear and ultrafast optics; optical materials and devices; and quantum phenomena involving photons, atoms, molecules, or solid-state systems. Work may span fundamental investigations of the physical properties of light and matter through the development of new experimental techniques, optical technologies, sensors, communication and information-processing methods, and other applications enabled by classical or quantum optical phenomena.
CSUF faculty are committed teacher/scholars who bring research and creative discovery to life for students in classrooms, labs, research groups, and individually mentored projects. They teach broadly in the curricula of their departments, advise students, and serve on departmental and university-wide committees. The primary responsibilities of the person in this position will include the development and teaching of introductory and core courses in the discipline and the development of courses in their area(s) of specialization. This person will also be responsible for producing research outputs commensurate with the requirements for tenure, in particular involving undergraduate and master’s students. The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the life and development of the department, and participate in broader university and disciplinary communities.
This position includes a competitive salary package, startup research funds and laboratory space.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Physics, with expertise in experimental research.
- Research expertise in optics, quantum optics, or a related field.
- demonstrated commitment to and excellence in undergraduate teaching
- a strong record of scholarly accomplishments
- ability to establish a self-supporting, active experimental research program that will produce peer-reviewed publications and substantially include student co-authors
- ability to balance excellent teaching, scholarship, and service
- demonstrated potential for effective integration of technology into instruction
- demonstrated commitment to working effectively with students from intersecting marginalized social groups
Preferred Qualifications
In addition to the above minimum requirements, candidates should highlight evidence of their potential to excel in the department’s three key areas of teaching, research, and service/outreach. Possible examples of potential include:
Evidence of potential in teaching may include (but is not limited to):
Prior teaching experience at the undergraduate or graduate level, including TA experience. Familiarity with current, research-based physics pedagogies. Experience implementing innovative teaching practices.
Evidence of potential in research may include (but is not limited to):
Postdoctoral experience, or other professional research experience, in a physics-related discipline with evidence of positive outcomes. Experience working with undergraduate students in a research environment. Strong record of research accomplishments resulting in peer-reviewed research outputs. Receipt of sponsored fellowships or other external funds.
Evidence of potential in service may include (but is not limited to):
Record of academic mentorship or other peer mentoring. Professional outreach activities. Active participation in professional societies.
Application
A complete online application must be received by electronic submission to be considered. To apply, please visit http://hr.fullerton.edu/workforce/careers.html, choose full-time faculty, search for the position 562328, and provide the following required materials:
- Cover letter in which you respond to the required qualifications.
- A complete curriculum vitae, which must include all evidence of academic activity the candidate wishes to receive consideration.
- Graduate transcripts (unofficial copies are sufficient for review).
- A maximum 3 page description that addresses the following: your teaching philosophies; how you will structure your courses; specific teaching interests; and knowledge of student-centered learning approaches.
- A maximum 5 page description including all the following: research plans and general goals; plans to obtain independent support for research activities; plans for the involvement of undergraduate and masters students; and estimated start-up needs.
- Candidate statement on commitment to inclusive excellence (no more than 500 words):
- Inclusive excellence is a strategic framework that recognizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in achieving organizational success and high-quality learning and teaching. It’s a way of thinking and acting that integrates these values into all aspects of an institution, from curriculum and pedagogy to recruitment and hiring. Essentially, it means that excellence is not just about achieving high standards, but also about ensuring that all members of the community have the opportunity to thrive and contribute (Williams et al., 2005).
- With the Inclusive Excellence Statement, we aim to learn about the applicant’s perspective on their past and present contributions to and future aspirations for promoting and engaging with a diverse student population. This statement should showcase the candidate’s professional experience, intellectual commitments, and/or willingness to teach and create an academic environment supportive of all students, including but not limited to those of diverse ages, abilities, cultures, ethnicities, gender identities, languages, religions, and sexual orientations.
- Cal State Fullerton serves a student body that reflects the rich cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic mosaic of Southern California. Please provide concrete examples of how you, as a faculty member, will support our students in one or more of the following areas, which fall under the areas of awareness and understanding, experience and commitment, and future plans.
- Your contributions (past, present, or future) to embedding perspectives that are reflective of the student population into your teaching and/or scholarship.
- Your experience in service activities that are reflective of a diverse student population.
- Your experience and commitment to mentoring and providing opportunities to a diverse student body inside and outside the classroom environment.
- Your experience integrating creative activities that are inclusive of the identities of our student body and communities.
A list of three references with relevant contact information:
Semi-Finalists must submit three letters of recommendation. Please have these ready for the referents to submit. On the References page of the online application, enter information and email addresses for three referents who will provide a confidential letter of reference for your application. At the appropriate time in the search process, they will receive a request via email along with information on uploading the letter. You can verify that CSUF has received each letter by logging back into your applicant portal.
Semifinalists and/or finalists may be asked to submit additional materials for further consideration (e.g., scholarly articles, portfolio, etc.).
Please direct all questions about the position to: Dr. Leigh Hargreaves (Search Committee Chair) at physicssearch(at)fullerton.edu.
Application Deadline
To be assured full consideration, all application materials must be received by November 1, 2026. The anticipated appointment date is August 2027.
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