Assistant Professor in Materials Science and Engineering
Job Description
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) at the University of California, Davis is seeking applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position specializing in computational materials science. The successful candidate will build an internationally recognized research program while contributing to undergraduate and graduate teaching in MSE. Areas of interest include quantum materials, multiscale modeling, and AI-enabled materials discovery.
Job Details
| Title | Assistant Professor in Materials Science and Engineering |
|---|---|
| Organization | University of California, Davis |
| Department | Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering |
| Location | Davis, California, USA |
| Position Type | Tenure-Track Faculty |
| Salary Range | USD 131,600 – 147,900 per year (off-scale may apply) |
| Research Focus | Computational Materials Science, Quantum Materials, AI & Data-Driven Design |
| Application Open Date | 8 October 2025 |
| Next Review Date | 14 November 2025 (11:59 PM PT) |
| Final Deadline | 30 June 2026 |
| Start Date | Expected 1 July 2026 |
| Qualification Required | Ph.D. (or ABD) in Materials Science & Engineering or related field |
| Reference Letters | 3 – 5 contacts required |
| Official Application Link | Apply via UC Recruit Portal |
| Help Contact | [email protected] |
About UC Davis and the Department
The University of California, Davis is globally recognized for its excellence in engineering, sustainability, and interdisciplinary research.
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) integrates physics, chemistry, and computational modeling to design advanced materials for next-generation technologies — from semiconductors and energy systems to quantum and nanoscale devices.
This position aligns with UC Davis’s Next Level Strategic Vision to strengthen faculty excellence and expand materials innovation addressing real-world societal and industrial challenges.
Position Description
The selected candidate will:
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Develop an independent, externally funded research program in computational materials science
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Conduct high-impact research in quantum materials, multiscale simulations, or AI-driven materials discovery
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Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams across engineering, physics, and chemistry
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Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in materials science and mentor diverse student cohorts
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Contribute to UC Davis’s mission of diversity, inclusion, and community engagement
Experience with machine learning or artificial intelligence methods in materials modeling is desirable but not required.
Required & Preferred Qualifications
Required:
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Ph.D. (or advanced to candidacy) in Materials Science and Engineering or closely related field
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Evidence of research excellence and potential for strong publication record
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Commitment to teaching and mentoring students from diverse backgrounds
Preferred:
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Experience with data-driven approaches, quantum simulations, or multiscale modeling
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Background in nanomaterials, quantum computing materials, or semiconductor modeling
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Demonstrated ability to secure competitive research funding
Why Join UC Davis?
✅ World-Class Research Environment: UC Davis ranks among the top universities in engineering and sustainability research.
✅ Collaborative Culture: Work across disciplines including nanotechnology, computation, and materials design.
✅ Strong Institutional Support: Access to shared computational clusters, cleanrooms, and advanced materials labs.
✅ Competitive Salary and Benefits: $131,600 – $147,900 per year with comprehensive health, retirement, and family leave packages.
✅ Diversity and Inclusion: UC Davis is committed to fostering an inclusive academic environment and is progressing toward Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation.
How to Apply
Applications must include:
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Cover Letter
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Curriculum Vitae
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Statement of Research Interests
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Statement of Teaching Philosophy
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Authorization to Release Information Form
📅 Deadline for full consideration: 14 November 2025 (11:59 PM Pacific Time)
💻 Apply online: UC Davis Academic Recruitment Portal – JPF07360
📧 Contact: [email protected]
Reference Links
Disclaimer
This article summarizes the official UC Davis job posting (Job #JPF07360) for informational and promotional purposes. For the most accurate details, deadlines, and requirements, visit the official UC Recruit portal.
