Simons Empire Faculty Fellow Dept of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (Assistant Professor)

Job description

Location: Albany, NY Category: Faculty Posted On: Wed Oct 8 2025 Job Description:
The Nanoscale Science and Engineering Department within the College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering at the University at Albany invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin Fall 2026.

Quantum computing offers a transformative paradigm.

By taking advantage of qubits' ability to exist in multiple states simultaneously and exploiting the probabilistic and delocalized behaviors of quantum systems, quantum computing promises exponentially more efficient calculations than conventional computers.

This would revolutionize fields that involve optimization, modeling and simulation, cryptography, and AI.

However, realizing this potential requires designing systems with novel architectures, improved error correction strategies and data coherence, and robust tolerance for realistic operating environments (e.g., temperature management and vibration isolation).

In parallel to the benefits of quantum computing, artificial intelligence and neuromorphic computing seek to emulate the massively parallel, highly efficient computing capacity of the human brain.

While quantum and neuromorphic/AI computing represent very distinct approaches to computing innovation; their integration holds immense promise for advancing technology and applications.

Quantum-assisted training of neuromorphic/AI systems represents a fresh approach for optimizing the neuromorphic structure and more efficient weighting of system synapses compared to classical computing systems.

The candidate for this Simons Empire Faculty Fellow position is expected to work at the intersection of quantum computing and artificial intelligence, while pursuing excellence in research, teaching, and service at a Carnegie R1 institution that serves a broad community and mentors the next generation of scientists.

The candidate will contribute to robust undergraduate and graduate programs in their discipline, will collaborate within the department and across the university to promote multidisciplinary research and increase extramural funding, and will perform community outreach and service to the university, college, and department.

Key areas of interest within this focus on computing and artificial intelligence include, but are not limited to, neural networks, error correction, and system architecture, with particular emphasis on translating theoretical advances into practical applications.

The candidate will work with a team of researchers in quantum computing, cognitive neuroscience, and mathematics to make advances at the intersection of quantum computing, neuromorphic computing, and artificial intelligence.

The Department of Nanoscale Science and Engineering is uniquely positioned within the Albany Nanotech Complex, home to NY CREATES - The Future of Innovation (https://ny-creates.org/) .

This environment provides the successful candidate with access to CNSE's state-of-the-art semiconductor fabrication facilities, as well as opportunities to collaborate directly with leading industry partners co-located on site.

In addition, the candidate can participate in emerging initiatives such as quantum computing focused consortia, including The Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub (NORDTECH) (https://www.nordtechub.org/) , further expanding research, innovation, and partnership opportunities.

Functional and Supervisory Relationships:


+ Reports to department chair

+ Supervises the following positions: none

+ May supervise employees as assigned: Graduate and undergraduate students as well as any laboratory personnel (e.g., postdoctoral researchers; research scientists; technicians, etc.).


Job Requirements


+ Successful candidates for a tenure-track faculty position in Nanoscale Science and Engineering will demonstrate a strong foundation in quantum computing and apply it to research, teaching, and collaboration.

+ Successful candidates will develop an active, extramurally funded research program with a focus on applying neuromorphic and AI-inspired approaches to the management of quantum computing.



+ Ideal areas of interest include neural networks, error correction, and system architecture, in particular those which will translate theory to application.



+ Successful candidates will be expected to work closely with counterparts in Cognitive Neuroscience and Mathematics, as well as colleagues within the CNSE and its industrial partners to explore translation of the concepts into hardware.

+ In addition to research excellence, the successful candidate will contribute to cross-disciplinary undergraduate and graduate training with the ability to offer courses in quantum and neuromorphic computing architectures, AI, and quantum information processing.


Job Requirements:
Minimum Qualifications:


+ A terminal doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in physics, computer engineering, or related field from a college or university accredited by the US Department of Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization by August 15, 2026.

+ A record of research and scholarly activity in quantum computing or fields directly related to the position description, as demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications, preprint manuscripts, books, or conference proceedings.

+ The ability and a plan to effectively teach undergraduate and graduate level courses.

+ Experience working with interdisciplinary teams.

+ Applicants must demonstrate an ability to develop inclusive and equitable relationships within our diverse campus community.

+ Applicants must demonstrate an ability to support diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and belonging relative to their role.


Preferred Qualifications:


+ Demonstrated experience in using quantum computing approaches (broadly defined), neuromorphic devices and architectures, artificial intelligence (AI), or machine learning.

+ A record of innovation in quantum computing or neuromorphic approaches, which includes peer-reviewed publications in impactful journals.

+ Evidence of potential for securing extramural funding for research and creative activities.

+ Experience in teaching and curriculum development at the collegiate level.


Working Environment:


+ Typical office, classroom, and scientific research lab environments

+ Class schedules may include courses offered after 5 pm on weekdays

+ This position will require occasional evening and weekend work to support events and community activities

+ Travel within New York State and beyond may be necessary


Additional Information:
Professional Rank and Salary Range: Assistant Professor, Salary commensurate with experience.

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, without exception, prepare, publish and distribute an Annual Security Report.

This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University's crime statistics for the past three years; and disclosures regarding the University's current campus security policies.

The University at Albany's Annual Security Report is available in portable document format [PDF] by clicking this link http://police.albany.edu/ASR.shtml

Pursuant to Executive Order 161, no State entity, as defined by the Executive Order, is permitted to ask, or mandate, in any form, that an applicant for employment provide his or her current compensation, or any prior compensation history, until such time as the applicant is extended a conditional offer of employment with compensation.

If such information has been requested from you before such time, please contact the Governor's Office of Employee Relations at (518) 474-6988 or via email at info@goer.ny.gov.

THE UNIVERSITY AT ALBANY IS AN EO/AA/IRCA/ADA EMPLOYER

Please apply online via http://albany.interviewexchange.com/candapply.jsp?JOBID=193712

Required Skill Profession

Other General