Careers @ MSU

Position Summary

The Department of Physics & Astronomy at Michigan State University (MSU) invites applications for a tenure-system faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor holding an endowed Cowen Chair Professorship. Candidates should demonstrate the potential to lead an independent and world-class research program in the broad field of Condensed Matter Experiment. Topics of interest, listed in no specific order, include topological and quantum materials, quantum dynamics and coherent control, solid-state-based quantum information, non-equilibrium many-body physics, as well as optical and electronic properties of materials.  Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in physics or a closely related area and are expected to build and maintain a sustainable research program that will complement and strengthen the existing experimental and theoretical efforts at MSU, make significant scholarly contributions, be effective as teachers and mentors, and engage in institutional and professional service.

Please note that this is a union position represented by the Union of Tenure System Faculty (UTSF). The university is working with the union to establish a collective bargaining agreement.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Physics or a closely related area.

Minimum Requirements

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in physics or a closely related area and are expected to build and maintain a sustainable research program in experimental condensed matter physics that will complement and strengthen the existing experimental and theoretical efforts at MSU, make significant scholarly contributions, be effective as teachers and mentors, and engage in institutional and professional service.

Required Application Materials

This position is listed on the MSU Applicant Page (https://jobs.msu.edu), posting 1164944. Applications should be uploaded to MSU’s online job application site, https://jobs.msu.edu, and should include in a single pdf file:

1. A cover letter that frames your application in the context of this position description.
2. A CV, which should include a list of publications, contributed and invited talks, teaching and mentoring roles, leadership positions, contributions to the academic community, and efforts in public outreach.
3. A statement highlighting past research successes and future research interests and plans for developing a sustainable research group. This statement should describe any collaborative and interdisciplinary research efforts and specify which lead-author publication the applicant would like the search committee to read.   The research statement should not exceed four pages.
4. A teaching statement describing the applicant’s plan for, and experience with, classroom teaching and mentoring in research. The teaching statement should not exceed two pages.
5. Name, telephone, address, and email of three references to provide letters upon request.

Special Instructions

Please submit applications before the review of applications begins on November 30, 2026. Late submissions will be considered if qualified applicants have not yet been identified. Questions regarding this position may be directed to Prof. Norman Birge (birge@msu.edu). 

Review of Applications Begins On

11/30/2026

Website

https://pa.msu.edu/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.