Job Title

Quantum Sensing, Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Department

Physics and Astronomy

University Expectation

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

Salary

The salary range is $50,000-$55,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Job Summary/Basic Function

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Middle Tennessee State University invites applicants for a full-time, postdoctoral research position (#015020) in quantum sensing. This is a one-year, temporary appointment with the possibility of renewal for an additional year, contingent upon the candidate's performance and continued interest. The start date for the position is as early as August 15, 2026.

The successful candidate will be a qualified scholar with expertise in experimental quantum sensing and metrology, specifically in squeezed light and whispering gallery mode (WGM) systems. The ideal candidate will have experience with free-space quantum optical experiments and WGM-based platforms.

Required Education

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

Other Desirables

Applicants with experience in experimental quantum optics, quantum information, quantum networks, and photonic integrated circuits (PIC) will receive special consideration.

Documents Needed to Apply

To apply successfully, applicants must include a cover letter and a curriculum vitae in the online application.

Special Instruction to Applicants 

For more information about serving as a faculty member at Middle Tennessee State University, please visit our faculty recruitment webpage at https://mtsu.edu/facultyrecruitment/.

If you need help with the application, please contact Mitzi Dunkley, Faculty Recruitment Specialist, at (615) 898-5128. If you have position-specific questions, please contact Fu Li at Fu.Li@mtsu.edu.

MTSU offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:  

• Sick Leave
• Vacation Leave for Administrative/Classified Staff/12-month Faculty
• 13 paid University holidays
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Retirement plans
• Optional 401K and 403B Deferred Compensation Plans
• Educational benefits for the employee, their spouse, and dependents

MTSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligibility for U.S. employment is required before employment (Immigration Control Act of 1986). Clery Act crime statistics for MTSU are available at https://police.mtsu.edu/annual-security-report/ or by contacting MTSU Public Safety at (615) 898-2424.

MTSU is a Tobacco & Drug-Free campus.

This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, you will be required to provide information about your criminal history to be considered.

For individuals requiring reasonable accommodation to apply: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position with MTSU, please call 615-898-2929 or email emp@mtsu.edu.

Application Review Date: 07/16/2026