https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/csufasc/jobs/5210838/postdoctoral-researcher-in-quantum-mechanics
We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative postdoctoral research associate to join our team on an NSF-funded project titled “Scaling Engagement and Learning in Quantum Science Through PhET Interactive Simulations.” This project is a collaborative effort between California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) and the University of Colorado, Boulder (CU Boulder). The overarching goals of the project are to design new interactive simulations, redesign existing quantum mechanics simulations, and support faculty and students in their effective use. The postdoctoral researcher will be based at California State University, Fullerton (Fullerton, CA) and will lead research on student learning with the simulations, co-lead the development of educational materials to accompany the simulations, and collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team, including Dr. Gina Passante (CSUF), Dr. Steven Pollock (CU Boulder), Dr. Noah Finklestein (CU Boulder), and the PhET team led by Dr. Kathy Perkins.
This position is anticipated to start as early as Summer 2026.
*Please be aware that funding for this position is awarded through a Grant/Contract over a specified period. Employment for this position beyond current Grant/Contract funding is contingent upon continued funding or new Grant/Contract.
Essential Duties
- Participate in the design (and re-design) process for quantum simulations with the PhET design team and in the design of accompanying instructional materials.
- To establish and carry out research studying the effectiveness of PhET quantum simulations and associated materials.
- Communicate with project team members and with faculty piloting the PhET simulations and activities.
- Participate in project-wide meetings and workshops and present research results at conferences.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated familiarity with physics education research methodologies and undergraduate quantum mechanics curriculum
- Experience publishing papers in physics education research journals
- Experience investigating student learning of physics topics
EDUCATION:
- Minimum Ph.D. in physics or a closely related field. The degree must be awarded by August 2026.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Prolonged periods of sitting or standing at a desk while working on a computer. Ability to travel occasionally for conferences, workshops, or collaborative meetings. Regular verbal communication to present research findings and collaborate with team members. Light physical activity, such as carrying books, laptops, or small equipment (up to 30 pounds).
BENEFITS:
Health, dental, vision, life, health care flex plan, LTD, vacation, sick leave, holiday, credit union, tuition reimbursement and retirement plan with company match. All benefits will be administered according to policies and/or procedures.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
CSU Fullerton, Auxiliary Services Corporation (ASC) is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact a Human Resources Representative at (657) 278-4117.
A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the ASC. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current ASC employees who apply for the position.
