Position Title
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Physics
Position Status
Full-time
Open to
External and Internal
Duration
Funding expected to continue
Job Summary
The Department of Physics in the College of Science at the University of Texas at Arlington invites applications for a postdoctoral position. The successful candidate will investigate key processes related to magnetosphere–ionosphere coupling, energetic particle dynamics, and the structure and dynamics of magnetic fields and plasma in Earth’s magnetotail under solar wind driving. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with observations from major NASA missions, including THEMIS, MMS, and TRACERS, as well as low-altitude CubeSat missions such as ELFIN, CIRBE, and REAL. The position involves analyzing multi-instrument datasets to study plasma processes and particle acceleration in geospace. Research activities will integrate observational data analysis, theoretical modeling, and numerical simulations to advance our understanding of magnetospheric dynamics. The successful candidate will be expected to publish results in peer-reviewed journals, present findings at international conferences, and contribute to collaborative research projects.
This position is expected to start June 2026.
In accordance with USCIS regulations, successful applicants must be legally able to accept work in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
Benefits at UTA
We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to all our employees at the University.
To help you understand the full value of these benefits, we have created a tool that calculates the total worth of your compensation package. This tool takes into account all of the benefits that you are eligible for, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. To access this tool and learn more about the total value of your benefits, please click on the following link:
https://resources.uta.edu/hr/services/records/compensation-tools.php
CBC Requirement
It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington to conduct a criminal background check on any applicant who is under final consideration for employment with the University.
This position may have access to critical infrastructure as defined by Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code. If so, to be hired for and continue to be employed in this position you must maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure as set forth in Texas Executive Order GA-48. By assuming this position, and if you have access to critical infrastructure, you authorize the University to conduct routine background checks.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct high-quality, independent research in the field of space plasma physics. The successful candidate will investigate key processes related to magnetosphere–ionosphere coupling, energetic particle dynamics, and the structure and dynamics of magnetic fields and plasma in Earth’s magnetotail under solar wind driving. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with observations from major NASA missions, including THEMIS, MMS, and TRACERS, as well as low-altitude CubeSat missions such as ELFIN, CIRBE, and REAL. The position involves analyzing multi-instrument datasets to study plasma processes and particle acceleration in geospace. Research activities will integrate observational data analysis, theoretical modeling, and numerical simulations to advance our understanding of magnetospheric dynamics. The successful candidate will be expected to publish results in peer-reviewed journals, present findings at international conferences, and contribute to collaborative research projects.
Required Qualifications
- Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics or a closely related field, completed within the past 3–5 years.
- Candidates should demonstrate a strong research background, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, and possess relevant technical expertise in experimental, computational, or theoretical methods.
- Experience with spacecraft data analysis and preparation in theoretical plasma physics is desirable.
- A background in spacecraft instrument design and modeling is also desirable but not required.
Special Conditions for Eligibility
Department Information
The Department of Physics at The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is an R1 research institution, offering postdocs opportunities in astrophysics, condensed matter, high-energy/nuclear physics, and medical biophysics. Postdocs work with esteemed faculty on projects funded by NASA, NSF, and DOE, with typical duties including research, mentoring, and publishing. The College of Science offers world-class educational and research opportunities with small class sizes and outstanding faculty mentorship.
University Information
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metroplex, a vibrant and diverse metropolitan area that is home to over 7 million people, one of the fastest-growing tech economies in the United States, and a wide array of arts, entertainment, and cultural activities. As a comprehensive teaching, research, and public service institution, UTA is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through scholarship and creative work. With an enrollment of more than 42,000 students, UTA is the second largest in the University of Texas System. As a result of its combination of rigorous academics and innovative research, UTA is designated as a Carnegie R-1 “Very High Research Activity” institution and nationally recognized for its commitment to student success and service. It ranks No. 5 in Military Times’ “Best for Vets: Colleges” and is the top university in North Texas for its graduates’ salaries (The Wall Street Journal). UTA is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution and is No. 6 for undergraduate ethnic diversity in the United States (U.S. News & World Report, 2023). With a global alumni network of approximately 280,000 – including leaders at many of the 24 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in North Texas – UTA contributes an estimated $29 billion annually to the Texas economy.
UTA is expanding its regional footprint by building a regional campus, called UTA West, in Parker County on the far west side of Fort Worth. It is scheduled to open in fall 2028. This initiative aligns with the university’s strategic growth and commitment to serving the broader community. Furthermore, UTA has launched the RISE 100 initiative, aiming to recruit 100 new tenure-system faculty to strengthen its research enterprise and leadership in key academic areas. Learn more at https://www.uta.edu/administration/president/strategic-plan/rise100.
This is an exciting time to join UTA and contribute to its bold vision for the future.
EEO Statement
It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA or The University) to provide an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. In accordance with federal and state law, the University prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, and/or veteran status. The University also prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender identity, and gender expression. Retaliation against persons who oppose a discriminatory practice, file a charge of discrimination, or testify for, assist in, or participate in an investigative proceeding relating to discrimination is prohibited. Constitutionally-protected expression will not be considered discrimination or harassment under this policy. It is the responsibility of all departments, employees, and students to ensure the University’s compliance with this policy.
ADA Accommodations
The University of Texas at Arlington is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to 817-272-5554 or email
[email protected].
