Tenure-track assistant professor of applied physics & engineering

The Department of Physics at Seton Hall University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Applied Physics & Engineering, starting in Fall 2027. We seek an outstanding scholar advancing computational science and theoretical methods in physics, applied physics, or engineering. Priority will be given to candidates specializing in plasma physics and engineering, semiconductor physics, or materials science. Key areas of interest include computational modeling and simulation, theory-driven research, high-performance computing, and machine learning/AI applications in STEM. Interdisciplinary researchers who bridge these domains are strongly encouraged to apply. While computation and theory are preferred, exceptional experimentalists whose research integrates computational or theoretical components within our priority areas will also be considered. The successful candidate will build a prominent, externally funded research program, leverage high-performance computing resources, and actively mentor undergraduate and graduate student researchers.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and sustain an independent, externally funded research program in applied physics or engineering, with priority given to computational and theoretical work.
• Use high-performance computing and modern computational methods to address significant scientific or engineering questions.
• Integrate machine learning and artificial intelligence, where appropriate, into research, modeling, simulation, data analysis, or scientific discovery.
• Teach 18 credits per academic year in undergraduate and graduate physics, applied physics, and engineering courses, including fundamental lecture or laboratory courses as needed.
• Develop new courses that strengthen the Department’s offerings in computational physics, applied physics, and engineering.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students in research and professional development.
• Advise physics students and contribute service to the Department, University, profession, and broader community.
• Build interdisciplinary collaborations within STEM and with external academic, government, or industry partners.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field by the time of appointment.
• Evidence of the potential to establish a productive, independent research program.
• Demonstrated preparation to teach effectively at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Commitment to mentoring and supporting students from a wide range of backgrounds.

Desired Qualifications:

• Expertise in computational science or theoretical physics and engineering, especially in plasma physics and engineering, semiconductor physics, or materials science.
• Experience developing and using numerical models, large-scale simulations, scientific software, or data-intensive computational workflows.
• Experience with high-performance computing environments, including parallel or distributed computing.
• Experience applying machine learning or artificial intelligence to scientific or engineering research.
• A record of peer-reviewed scholarship and strong potential to secure external research support.
• Potential to complement existing departmental strengths and contribute to interdisciplinary research and curricular development.
• For experimental candidates, a research program that connects productively with computation, theory, advanced data analysis, or the Department’s priority areas.

Licenses and Certificates:

N/A

Salary Range:

$64,500-$71,600

Exempt/Nonexempt:

Exempt

Physical Demands:

General Office Environment

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae; a research statement describing current work, future plans, anticipated computing needs, and opportunities for student involvement; a teaching statement; a statement describing their approach to inclusive excellence in teaching, mentoring, and academic community-building; and the names and full contact information of three professional references. Review of applications will begin in late Fall 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Questions may be directed to the Chair of Search Committee, Prof. Jose L. Lopez, e-mail: jose.lopez1@shu.edu

Benefits Information:

Full Time Benefits

Life today is complex. That’s why Seton Hall University offers a comprehensive package of benefits and programs to help you simplify and enrich your life.

These benefits are important elements of your total university compensation package. Benefits include but are not limited to bundled medical, prescription, and vision insurance, dental insurance, and life insurance, and retirement plan. More information is available at https://www.shu.edu/human-resources/benefits.html.

Seton Hall University is located in South Orange, New Jersey, 14 miles from New York City. It is the oldest Catholic diocesan institution of higher education in the United States and is home to about 6,300 undergraduate and 3,700 graduate students. A vibrant and culturally inclusive community, Seton Hall pursues academic excellence and ethical development in a collaborative environment and prepares its students to be servant leaders in their professional and community lives. Seton Hall University is an equal opportunity employer. It honors diverse perspectives and welcomes employees from all faith traditions. In turn, its employees respect Catholic beliefs and values, engage in servant leadership, and support the University’s mission as a Catholic institution of higher education.