Job Title

Physics and Astronomy (Quantum Information Science and Engineering), Tenure-Track Faculty

Department

Physics and Astronomy

University Expectation

MTSU seeks candidates committed to innovative teaching, robust research/creative activity, and meaningful service. We also seek to attract culturally and academically diverse faculty who value working with diverse students.

Salary

The salary and rank are commensurate with education and experience.

Job Summary/Basic Function

The Department of Physics at Middle Tennessee State University invites applicants for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position in theoretical and computational studies of quantum information science at the rank of assistant or associate professor. The start date for the position is August 1, 2026.

We seek applicants with expertise in one of the following areas of theoretical and computational studies of quantum information science:

• Quantum information theory and quantum computation.
• Quantum control, open quantum systems, and fault tolerance.
• Quantum sensing theory and quantum-enhanced metrology.
• Quantum algorithms (optimization, simulation, or many-body applications).
• Hybrid quantum–classical computation and AI/ML integration.
• Quantum software, benchmarking, and architecture co-design.
• Quantum dynamics and simulation of AMO or solid-state systems (including Rydberg atoms, trapped ions, or related platforms).

Why MTSU?

• R2 Carnegie Classification with strong research support.
• Home to the new QRiSE Center for quantum research.
• Collaborative Ph.D. programs in Computational Science and Data Science.
• Faculty funded by NSF, DOE, and NASA and includes Fulbright and KITP scholars.
• Diverse undergraduate concentrations including professional physics, quantum science and computing, applied physics, physics teaching, and astronomy.

Please visit https://physics.mtsu.edu to learn more about our vibrant department, committed to cutting-edge science and impactful scholarship.

Required Education

A terminal degree in physics or a closely related field is required by the appointment date.

Other Desirables

Applicants whose research bridges theory and application, or connects to national quantum centers, laboratories, or industry, and those with a proven track record for mentoring women and minorities will receive special consideration.

Documents Needed to Apply

To successfully apply, applicants must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of teaching philosophy, and statement of research or creative activities (as appropriate to the discipline) as separate attachments at the time of online application.

NOTE: The research statement should include a plan for establishing an active research program that fully engages undergraduates.

Special Instruction to Applicants 

For more information about serving as a faculty member at Middle Tennessee State University, please visit our faculty recruitment webpage.

If you need help applying, please contact Mitzi Dunkley, Faculty Recruitment Specialist, at (615) 898-5128. If you have position-specific questions, please contact Chuck Higgins at Chuck.Higgins@mtsu.edu.

Application Review Date: 11/09/2025