Job Details

Postdoc Research Associate

Position Number: 6653596
Location: Waco, TX
Position Type: Science - Physics

Postdoc Research Associate

Job Identification: 19475
Posting Date: 10/16/2025, 03:41 PM
Job Schedule: Full time
Locations: 101 Bagby Avenue, Waco, TX, 76706, US
Degree Level: Doctorate

Job Description:
What We're Looking For

Baylor University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics, with a start date no earlier than January 1, 2025. The successful candidate will join the surface science group led by Prof. Fabian Pena. This postdoctoral position offers a great opportunity to work on advanced research in nanoscale quantum materials and device physics. The Pena Lab at Baylor University combines condensed matter physics and materials science with modern techniques in synthesis, characterization, and atomic-scale fabrication to explore and understand new materials.

This is a one-year appointment, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Qualifications

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, Physical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
Highly self-motivated, with intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a drive to overcome technical challenges.

What You Will Do

Assist PI in planning, organizing, and conducting research projects.
Mentor and support undergraduate and graduate students in the planning and execution of experiments.
Lead the design and synthesis of quantum materials (MBE, PLD, MOCVD, and ALD)
Conduct comprehensive characterization (Raman, FTIR, XPS, XRD, TEM, AFM, SEM)
Work closely with simulation and device experts to support testing, demonstrations, and system integration.
Contribute to the publication of scientific manuscripts and share your findings through presentations at conferences.
Attend training as required for the job.
Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor's mission.
Ability to comply with University policies.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

To apply, candidates should submit the following to Baylor's jobs website:

Cover letter
CV
Statement of research interests (to be appended to the cover letter)
Names and contact information for three professional references. In addition, applicants should also arrange for at least three letters of recommendation.

What You Can Expect

As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family's wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus. To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages.

Explore & Engage

Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds. Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally. If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco!

About Us:
Baylor University, a private not-for-profit university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, is committed to compliance with all applicable anti-discrimination laws, including those regarding age, race, color, sex, national origin, military service, genetic information, and disability. Baylor complies with statutory Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity requirements. Baylor's full official Notice of Non-Discrimination may be read online.

To apply, visit https://ejof.fa.us2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/BaylorCareers/job/19475