Governor’s Chair in Quantum Devices
Listed on 2026-01-22
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Science
Research Scientist
Overview
Location: University of Tennessee / Oak Ridge National Lab
The Governor’s Chair in Quantum Devices at the University of Tennessee (UT) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is aimed at advancing research in experimental quantum materials and devices. The chair will exploit UT and ORNL nanofabrication, design capabilities, and the Spallation Neutron Source to perform high-profile research focused on the design, engineering, manufacture, and characterization of quantum devices that enable sensing, communication, information processing, storage, or other technological applications.
The successful candidate will have an international reputation and demonstrated excellence in research, program leadership and development, and teaching. They will have led research teams and be able to engage with a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers and students to advance quantum materials research in Tennessee, leveraging infrastructure and partnerships across UTK and ORNL (e.g., CAMM, SWC, CNMS, SNS, QSC, and ORNL leadership computing).
The primary employer may be UTK or ORNL, with a joint appointment at the other institution. Affiliations will be within UTK and ORNL structures, with potential for a joint position in UT’s College of Engineering.
IAMM and ORNL Context UT is a global leader in materials and manufacturing research. The Institute for Advanced Materials & Manufacturing (IAMM) and ORNL Resources provide co-located facilities to support multidisciplinary work, from materials synthesis to quantum devices development.
QualificationsCandidates will hold a PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering or closely related field and be tenured professors or senior researchers. They will have an exemplary publication record, notable invited talks, leadership in grants, and a research focus in one or more of: development of quantum materials, quantum transport, device fabrication, operando characterization, and transduction between quantum information carriers. They should demonstrate a vision for leveraging quantum materials to build devices with applications in energy, manufacturing and information technology, and have a track record of mentoring junior scientists.
They should also be committed to educating the next generation of experts and have experience mentoring students and junior researchers.
Governor’s Chair ExpectationsStrategic Leadership:
Collaborate with UTK and ORNL leadership to advance quantum materials research, including staffing, student recruitment, and stakeholder management.
Academic Quality:
Lead or support pursuits of excellence in research, innovation, education, and workforce development.
Collaborations:
Expand partnerships with regional, national and international institutions.
Funding:
Leverage UTK and ORNL assets to secure extramural funding and build a sustainable portfolio in quantum devices R&D and education.
Community Relations:
Engage with community relations activities to amplify impact in Tennessee, focusing on quantum devices.
Education:
Develop curricular offerings in quantum devices and train graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.
Required Application Materials Include
- Cover Letter:
Describe how the applicant embodies the goals of the Governor’s Chair program and their expertise in quantum devices. - Curriculum Vitae:
Include research and teaching/mentoring experience, publications, and grants. - Research Statement:
Articulate a plan to transition research program to UTK and ORNL. - Teaching & Mentoring Statement:
Discuss prior teaching/mentoring experience and how it will enhance the educational mission at UT.
For further information, please email quantum devices
Equal Employment OpportunityAll qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment and admission without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, parental status, or any other protected characteristic. UTK adheres to Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Requests for accommodation of a disability should be directed to the ADA Coordinator at Equal Opportunity and Accessibility (eoa, ).
Inquiries or charges related to equal opportunity may be directed to the Office of Investigation and Resolution (investigations, ).
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