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University of Rochester: Office of the Provost: Academic Center: Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences: The Institute of Optics

Salary Range or Pay Grade

$95,000-$115,000 a year

Description

The Institute of Optics, University of Rochester (UR), seeks tenure-track assistant professor candidates for the Zuegel Family Professorship in laser science. Candidates should have a PhD in optics, photonics, optical engineering, physics, or a related discipline. All areas of laser science will be considered, with special consideration for candidates who are able to collaborate with UR's Laboratory for Laser Energetics. The successful candidate will be expected to build an independent research group, teach at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and participate in the national and international community of optics, photonics and laser science.

The University of Rochester is a distinguished research university, and The Institute of Optics is the USA's original institute and academic center for the study of Applied Optics, Fundamental Optical Sciences, and Optical Engineering. Our subfields include laser science and engineering, quantum optics, physical optics (applied to medical imaging, space technologies and a host of commercial technologies), optical design and engineering, nano-optics, medical optics and vision, quantum optics, ultrafast optics, integrated photonics, optical fiber communications, and optical engineering for energy and the environment. The Institute has been awarding optics degrees at the BS, MS and PhD levels since 1929. Students take classes and do research in areas ranging from optical engineering (optical system design, laser science and engineering, efficient light collection and illumination, optomechanics, coatings, optical fabrication and testing, waveguide design) to optical science (nano-optics, quantum optics, nonlinear optics, high energy laser research, optical materials, light propagation). Over 2500 graduates of the Institute have gone to major research universities, government laboratories, successful entrepreneurial activities, teaching, and many more roles.

There is excellent collaboration among faculty across areas, and close ties to other groups in the University, including the School of Medicine and Dentistry, the Simon School of Business, the Warner School of Education, the Center for Visual Science, the Goergen Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and the Laboratory for Laser Energetics _._ The city of Rochester, NY is a diverse, energetic, and family-friendly community located on Lake Ontario adjacent to the Finger Lakes region with a metropolitan population of 1+ million. Rochester also boasts a thriving arts and music culture, substantial employment opportunities in various sectors, affordable housing, a rich history of social justice, and easy access to urban, suburban, and rural neighborhoods.

Qualifications

Candidates should hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in Optics, Physics, Photonics, or a related discipline and should have considerable research experience. Applicants should submit 1) a cover letter, 2) a CV, 3) a statement of research, 4) a teaching statement, 5) Optional: a statement discussing the ways in which your experiences will shape your pursuits as a member of our faculty and help you add to the University's core values of Meliora (https://www.rochester.edu/about/values.html) (ever better), 6) up to three articles (as three separate attachments), and 7) three letters of recommendation.

Application Instructions

Questions concerning this position, including flexibility in salary range, startup availability, and available facilities, can be addressed to Prof. Jaime Cardenas ( [email protected] ), chair of the search committee, or Prof. Thomas Brown ( [email protected] ), Director of the Institute of Optics. Review of applications will begin in October 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Applications received prior to December 15, 2025 will receive full consideration.

Salary range: $95,000 to $115,000.

The referenced pay range represents the full base range of pay for this job. Individual salaries will be determined within the job’s salary range and established based on market data, experience and expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

The University of Rochester community is committed to Meliora – becoming ever better. Through our Vision & Values statement ( https://www.rochester.edu/aboutus/values/ ) we affirm our commitment to equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect and accountability.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

EOE, including disability/protected veterans

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Classes). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.