Assistant or Associate Professor at the Intersection of Theoretical High Energy Physics and Astrophysics

Department of Physics

College of Arts and Sciences

Position Overview

The Department of Physics at The Ohio State University announces an opening for a tenure-track faculty position for a theoretical physicist working at the intersection of high energy physics and astrophysics.  The appointment will be effective in Autumn 2025 at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor.  We seek a candidate whose work complements that of the high energy physics and astrophysics efforts at Ohio State and/or helps initiate new research directions at their intersection.  Our high energy theory group is interested in all aspects of particle physics, quantum field theory and string theory, and is currently focused on quantum chromodynamics (QCD), physics beyond the Standard Model and black holes. A non-exhaustive list of points of possible connection to astrophysics includes neutrinos, dark matter, inflation, gravitational waves, dark energy, early- or late-universe cosmology, and the StarLab facility.  The successful candidate will work to advance the Department’s mission in research, teaching, and service and is anticipated to become a member of the Ohio State Center for Cosmology and AstroParticle Physics (CCAPP).  This opening in high energy theory connected to astrophysics is complemented by a similar opening in nuclear theory connected to astrophysics.

Performance Objectives

Applicants should demonstrate the potential to be a recognized leader at the intersection of theoretical high energy physics and astrophysics, who will develop a productive, well-funded, and internationally prominent research program. Successful candidates will be expected to:

• foster cross-disciplinary research with sustained impact;
• develop and maintain an extramurally funded research program;
• have a strong commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring; and
• contribute to the teaching (graduate and undergraduate) and service missions of the University.

Education and Experience Requirements

Required: Candidates must hold a PhD in Physics or a closely related field. Candidates should have an established research record on topics that cover both high energy physics and astrophysics.  

Desired: We are seeking candidates who, in addition to building their independent research program, will have a strong commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to building a diverse intellectual community, in line with OSU’s Shared Values (see below).