Position Description

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Area of Research: Particle Physics Experiment

Department of Physics

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The Department of Physics at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in particle physics experiment. The successful candidate will work in the Nuclear Physics Laboratory research group.  The primary focus of the fellowship would be Project 8, an experiment to provide a direct measurement of the neutrino mass using Cyclotron Radiation Emission Spectroscopy (CRES) of electrons near the tritium endpoint.  Our responsibilities in the experiment include design, optimization and fabrication of the magnet systems and magnetometry as well as development of a cryogenic atomic tritium source.

The Postdoctoral Research Associate is a full-time position appointed on a 12-month service basis.  Applicants must have completed a Ph.D. in physics earned within ten years of the position’s start date. The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding. The anticipated start date is January 2027 but is negotiable.  Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. This position will be expected to work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus and possibly at collaborating institutions on a full-time basis per the University’s Workplace Flexibility policy.  This position is eligible for work authorization sponsorship.

To apply, please submit cover letter, CV, and three letters of reference by December 1, 2026, directly to Prof. Douglas Beck (dhbeck@illinois.edu).  Review of applications will begin on that date and will continue until the position is filled.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, a retirement plan, paid time off, and tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures for applicants.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.