Department Head, Professor

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy ( https://physast.uga.edu) comprises 23 faculty, approximately 60 graduate students, and approximately 125 total undergraduate majors. Active research programs are concentrated in areas of astrophysics, biophysics, molecular and optical physics, and quantum technologies/nanoscience/condensed matter physics. This department is part of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, a vibrant community committed to interdisciplinary research and education, collaboration and academic innovation. The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is the heart of UGA's learning environment, advancing knowledge, research, and creative activity across more than 40 departments, schools, and institutes.

Applicants should articulate a 2-3 page vision statement outlining their goals for the Department of Physics and Astronomy, as informed by their prior leadership experience in teaching, mentorship, research, and service. This statement might address strategies to:

Applications must include a cover letter addressing interest in the position, a curriculum vitae, a 2-3 page vision statement (as described above), and names and contact information for three references (letters may be requested later). Questions may be directed to the Chair of the Search Committee at salguero@uga.edu.

Review of applications will begin on January 5, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. All applications received by the review date will receive full consideration.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.