RESEARCH SCIENTIST/ACADEMIC - Physics #00098404

About the role

The Physics Department of Missouri University of Science & Technology (Missouri S&T) invites applications for a Research Scientist to begin in September 2026. The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for carrying out and developing experiments in momentum-resolved atomic photoionization; operating, maintaining, and further developing the laser-cooled atom source, COLTRIMS/reaction microscope, and continuous-wave and ultrafast laser systems; developing new experimental capabilities involving structured light and optical vortex beams; acquiring and analyzing coincidence momentum data; interpreting experimental results; preparing publications and conference presentations; and assisting with the training and supervision of graduate and undergraduate researchers working with the experimental apparatus.

Responsibilities

• Carry out and develop experiments in momentum-resolved atomic photoionization
• Operate, maintain, and further develop the laser-cooled atom source, COLTRIMS/reaction microscope, and continuous-wave and ultrafast laser systems
• Develop new experimental capabilities involving structured light and optical vortex beams
• Acquire and analyze coincidence momentum data
• Interpret experimental results
• Prepare publications and conference presentations
• Assist with the training and supervision of graduate and undergraduate researchers working with the experimental apparatus

Qualifications

The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in Physics or an equivalent degree.

Benefits

This position is not eligible for University benefits. Individuals in non‑benefit‑eligible positions may choose to participate in the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan (403b).

About Missouri S&T and Rolla

Missouri S&T is one of the nation's leading research universities with over 100 degree programs in 39 disciplines. Founded in 1870 as one of the first technological institutions west of the Mississippi River, it is located about 100 miles west of St. Louis in Rolla, Missouri — an accessible, safe, and friendly campus surrounded by Ozarks scenery. The university offers undergraduate degrees in engineering, the sciences, liberal arts, humanities, and business, with M.S. and Ph.D. programs available in many science and engineering programs. With over 7,000 students and 300 faculty, Missouri S&T balances breadth with a close-knit community where individuals can build high visibility and impactful careers.

Kummer College (established 2022) serves as a pathbreaking model for social impact, technology transfer, and interdisciplinary collaboration within a future‑oriented STEM‑focused university. Supported by the Kummer Institute Foundation, it integrates academic, co‑curricular, and administrative activities related to technology commercialization, business innovation and entrepreneurship, systems thinking, and economic development. The college houses the Department of Business and Information Technology (BIT), Department of Economics, Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering (EMSE), and Kummer Student Programs.

The College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) is the largest of three colleges at S&T, accounting for roughly 80% of total enrollment (about 4,500 undergraduates and 800 graduate students). It includes more than 170 ranked faculty members across 16 undergraduate programs, all with master’s and doctoral equivalents organized into nine academic departments. The college recently added a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering and a Ph.D. in bioengineering, both starting fall 2024. Missouri S&T, supported by CEC, is nationally recognized for its career outcomes and ROI.

The College of Arts, Sciences, and Education (CASE) is a catalyst of innovation, creativity, and discovery, comprising eleven units including Air Force ROTC, Army ROTC, Arts, Languages and Philosophy, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, English and Technical Communication, History and Political Science, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics, Psychological Science, and Education. CASE offers more than 85 different academic options ranging from certificates and minors to