Research Associate Professor, Physics

The Opportunity

The Department of Physicsin the College of Sciences atthe University of Central Floridainvites applications for a 9-month, non-tenure, non-instructional Research Associate Professor in the area offundamental experimental studies of the properties of low dimensional novel materials under ambient conditions. We seek an exceptional scientist whose research focuses on unraveling the structural, electronic, and chemical and physical properties of electronic materials across gas-phase, liquid-phase, and operando environments. The successful candidate will be expected to establish a vibrant, externally funded research program, contribute to mentoring of students, engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, and participate actively in professional service.

Candidates with expertise in the following areas are especially encouraged to apply:

• Fundamental investigations of materialssurface structure and dynamics, particularly under reaction and operando conditions.

• Advancedsurface analytical techniques, including ambient pressure electron spectroscopy (XPS, UPS, AES), high pressure scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), and related methods.

• Structural characterization of materials usingsynchrotron radiation techniques, such as X-ray absorption spectroscopy, ambient-pressure XPS, X-ray scattering, or related methods.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related field from an accredited institution;

• A record of impactful research with clear potential to produce transformative scholarship in fundamental studies of materials;

• Experience conducting research usingsynchrotron radiation facilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Evidence of excellence in mentoring and working with graduate students;

• Experience in the operation, maintenance, and hands-on use ofmajor instrumentationfor surface and materials characterization;

• Strong and impactful publication record in materials science, surface science, andmaterials science;

• Strong record of proposals for funding application securingexternal research funding.

Additional Application Materials Required:

UCF requires all applications and supporting documents be submitted electronically through the Human Resources employment opportunities website, https://www.ucf.edu/jobs/. In addition to the online application, interested candidates should upload the following:

• A curriculum vitae.

• A letter of interest describing qualifications for the position, such as research agenda and teaching experience/interest.

NOTE: Please have all documents ready when applying so they can be simultaneously uploaded. Once the online submission process is finalized, the system does not allow applicants to submit additional documents later.

The selected candidate will be required to submit official transcripts (and, as applicable, U.S. degree equivalency evaluations) documenting the conferral of their qualifying academic credentials.

Applications will be reviewed beginning December 17, 2025.

Questions regarding this search should be directed to the Physics Department Nikitta Campbell at Nikitta.Campbell@ucf.edu.

Special Instructions to the Applicants:

This position is funded by contracts and grants and is contingent upon available funding.

Sponsorship for employment-based visas will only be considered under exceptional circumstances and is not guaranteed. Preference will be given to candidates who are currently authorized to work for any employer in the United States.

Job Close Date:

December 19, 2025

Are you ready to unleash YOUR potential?

As a next-generation public research university and Forbes-ranked top employer in Florida, we are a community of thinkers, doers, creators, innovators, healers, and leaders striving to create broader prosperity and help shape a better future. No matter what your role is, when you join Knight Nation, you'll play an integral role at one of the most impactful universities in the country. You'll be met with opportunities to connect and collaborate with talented faculty, staff, and students across 13 colleges and multiple campuses, engaging in impactful work that makes a positive difference. Your time at UCF will provide you with many meaningful opportunities to grow, you'll work alongside talented colleagues on complex projects that will challenge you and help you gain new skills and you'll have countless rewarding experiences that go well beyond a paycheck.

Working at UCF has its perks!UCF offers:

• Benefit packages, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending, and Employee Assistance Program.

• Paid time off, including annual (12-month faculty) and sick time off and paid holidays.

• Retirement savings options.

• Employee discounts, including tickets to many Orlando attractions.

• Education assistance.

• Flexible work environment.

• And more...For more benefits information, view the UCF Employee Benefits Guide click here.

Unless explicitly stated on the job posting, it is UCF's expectation that an employee of UCF will reside in Florida as of the date the employment begins.

Additional Requirements related to Research Positions:

Pursuant to Florida State Statute 1010.35, prior to offering employment to certain individuals in research-related positions, UCF is required to conduct additional screening. Applicants subject to additional screening include any citizen of a foreign country who is not a permanent resident of the U.S., or who is a citizen or permanent resident but is affiliated with or has had at least 1 year of education, employment, or training in China, Cuba, Iran, Russia, North Korea, Syria, or Venezuela.

The additional screening requirements only apply to research-related positions, including, but not limited to faculty, graduate positions, individuals compensated by research grants or contract funds, post-doctoral positions, undergraduate positions, visiting assistant professors, and visiting research associates.

Department

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Type of Appointment

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As a Florida public university, the University of Central Florida makes all application materials and selection procedures available to the public upon request.

UCF is proud to be a smoke-free campus and an E-Verify employer.

If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 407-823-1336 or email onac@ucf.edu.

For general application or posting questions, please email talent@ucf.edu.