Howard University

Department of Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy in the College of Arts and Sciences invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor with research interest in the areas of experimental condensed matter physics and atomic molecular and optical (AMO) physics. Research emphasis is placed on the study of the quantum nature of materials and information via the use of optical and photonic systems. Talented candidates in other areas will also be considered. We seek outstanding applicants with a demonstrated track record of excellence in research and teaching along with a demonstrated commitment to the missions of the department and Howard University. The University has on-going relationships and access to world-class external research facilities as it works to promote and maintain interdisciplinary collaborations with nationally recognized research organizations, such as NASA, NIST and NRL. In addition, the Department has a strategic priority of enhancing collaborations and interactions with national laboratories and to lead/participate in large interdisciplinary research programs. Successful candidates are expected to develop vigorous, extramurally funded research programs in their areas of expertise, actively participate in the Department's teaching and curriculum development at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and mentor undergraduate and graduate students. Evidence of interest and success in mentoring underrepresented students is highly desired.

Howard University is ranked as one of the top private universities that focuses on producing African American scientists. Howard University, a culturally diverse, comprehensive, research intensive and historically Black private university, provides an educational experience of exceptional quality at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels to students of high academic standing and potential, with particular emphasis upon educational opportunities for Black students. Howard University is currently classified as an R2 research university with aspirations and actions underway to achieve R1 status within the next few years. It is a residential campus of approximately 10,000 students located in the heart of the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy currently consists of 16 faculty members, conducting pure and applied research with specializations in Condensed Matter Physics, Batteries & Renewable Energy, Laser Spectroscopy & Optics, Cosmology & String Theory, Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics and Biophysics. It offers BS, MS, and PhD degrees in physics with foci in Experimental, Theoretical and Computational Physics research related to the above cited areas and is a leading producer of African Americans earning degrees in Physics.

Required Qualifications:

• Earned doctorate in physics or a related field of study from an accredited institution;
• Record of scholarship, teaching, and professional service commensurate with the rank of assistant professor;
• Effective communication and organizational skills; and
• Evidence of successful grant writing experience.

Complete applications consist of a single PDF file containing

1) Cover letter addressing qualifications listed above;

2) Current curriculum vita;
3) Two-page statement of research accomplishments, interests and future plans;

4) Two-page statement of teaching experience and philosophy; and

5) Names and contact information for at least three references who will provide letters upon request from the search committee.

The application should be submitted via e-mail to Prof. Silvina Gatica (sgatica@howard.edu), Chair, Appointments, Promotions and Tenure Committee, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Howard University, 2355 6th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059. The position is expected to be filled effective August 16, 2022. Review of applications will begin on January 18, 2022 and continue until the position is filled.

The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, marital status, religion, disability or protected veterans status. Veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Inquiries regarding provisions for persons with disabilities or veterans status, Equal Employment Opportunity and Title IX should be directed to the Office of Employee Relations and Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-806-1280.