Assistant Scientist Instrument Science

Assistant Scientist Instrument Science

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree (or equivalent) in physics or a closely related field. Relevant postdoctoral research experience is required. Demonstrated potential for excellence in mentoring a diverse undergraduate and graduate student body, while establishing a well-recognized research program, is essential.

The Department of Physics at the University of Florida invites applications for a full-time, 12-month Assistant Scientist position specializing in precision optical measurements, beginning January 1, 2027.

We seek highly qualified candidates from all areas of precision optical measurements. The successful candidate should have demonstrated extraordinary experience in developing, implementing and/or applying optical systems with picometer accuracy.

The University of Florida has been part of the LIGO and LISA experiments for almost 30 years. During that time, we have focused on instrument science and currently have projects measuring the length stability of prototype telescopes for space missions as well as the development of a 2-micron laser.

The successful candidate will carry out research on precision measurements of optical instruments to be used in gravitational-wave detectors such as the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) and the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO). The work includes the design of optical systems capable of measuring the stability of telescopes to 1 part in a trillion (picometer stability), the design of optical benches to match properly laser beams to ultra-stable cavities. It also includes studies of single-mode non-planar ring oscillator (NPRO) lasers operating near 2-micron wavelengths for use in cryogenically cooled laser interferometers employing silicon optics. Relevant tasks include measuring the tunability of these lasers, designing mode-matching optics to optical cavities, studying methods for phase modulation at 2-micron wavelengths, and demonstrating locking of these lasers to the cavities.

The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, and the compensation includes a full benefits package.

UF offers a strong benefits package for eligible faculty appointments, including health insurance, paid leave (as applicable), and retirement options. Learn more here.

For full consideration, applications must be submitted online. Click on Apply Now at the top of this posting.

A complete application includes:

1. A cover letter
2. A curriculum vitae with full publication list
3. A research statement
4. Three letters of recommendation

Reference providers will be notified of their upload link only after a completed application has been submitted. Early submission is strongly encouraged. 

To ensure full consideration, applications must be submitted by November 19, 2026. For more information, please contact Prof. David Tanner (tanner@phys.ufl.edu).

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date. Review of applications will begin on November 20, 2026 and will continue until a successful applicant is selected.

All candidates for employment are subject to a pre-employment screening which includes a review of criminal records, reference checks, and verification of education.

The selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered “official” if a designation of “Issued to Student” is visible. Degrees earned from an educational institution outside of the United States require evaluation by a professional credentialing service provider approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), which can be found at http://www.naces.org/.