Assistant Professor Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Department of Physics at the University of South Florida, Tampa campus, seeks to fill a 9-month, full-time, tenure-earning position at the Assistant Professor level in experimental biomedical sciences or biophysics. The appointment start date is August 7, 2026. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. 

Our Physics Department has well-established research programs in experimental and theoretical biophysics, materials physics, and optics. We also interact with other researchers in USF's Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, as well as the nearby Moffitt Cancer Center.

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.  

The minimum requirement for this position is a doctoral degree from an accredited institution in Physics or a closely related field, relevant postdoctoral experience, and demonstrate potential for attracting independent extramural funding. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Assistant Professor.

Preference will be given to candidates who have demonstrated strengths in the areas of optical and/or molecular biophysics and the potential for collaborations in basic or translational biomedicine. 

How To Apply:

When applying, please attach the following required materials: 

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vita with publication record
• Statement of teaching philosophy (1 page)
• Research plan (2-3 pages)

In addition, applicants should have three (3) letters of recommendation sent to physearch@usf.edu.  

All applications completed by December 1, 2025 will be given full consideration, but the search will continue until the position is filled. 

Questions regarding this search should be directed to Prof. Ghanim Ullah, Search Committee Chair (physearch@usf.edu).

Conclusion of this search is subject to final budget approval. According to Florida Law, applications and meetings regarding them are open to the public. USF is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access institution. For disability accommodations contact Edwin Perez (edwinperez@usf.edu), a minimum of five working days in advance. This position is subject to Foreign Influence Screening. House Bill 7017 ("HB 7017")

The successful candidate will establish a nationally recognized research program, teach effectively at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and mentor student research at all levels.