Postdoctoral Research Associate I (UPDATED)

Position HighlightsNote: The target start date has been updated to June 22, 2026.We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher in Optical Engineering to join our research group at James C Wyant College of Optical Sciences, the University of Arizona. The position focuses on optical metrology, precision fabrication, and system integration, with an emphasis on developing advanced optical systems for emerging imaging applications.Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.Duties & ResponsibilitiesDesign and implement optical metrology systems (e.g., interferometry, profilometry, wavefront sensing) Develop algorithms for optical metrology, including phase retrieval, surface reconstruction, and error analysis Perform high-accuracy measurement and quantitative characterization of optical surfaces and components Build data processing pipelines for metrology, including automation and statistical analysis Support optical system validation, alignment, and performance testing Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and contribute to publicationsMinimum QualificationsPh.D. in Optical Engineering, Optics. Applied Physics, or related field upon hireStrong background in optical metrology (e.g., interferometry, surface characterization, wavefront sensing) Hands-on experience with optical instrumentation and experimental methods Strong experience in data analysis and modelingDemonstrated track record of peer-reviewed publications Preferred QualificationsExperience with precision optical fabrication methods (e.g., diamond turning, polishing)Experience with freeform or aspheric optics characterizationExperience with optical system alignment and performance evaluationDemonstrate knowledge of error budgeting and tolerance analysisExperience with integrating metrology into fabrication or system development workflowFLSAExemptFull Time/Part TimeFull TimeNumber of Hours Worked per Week40Job FTE1.0Work CalendarFiscalJob CategoryResearchBenefits EligibleYes - Full BenefitsRate of PayNIH salary guidelines, Depends on Experience.Compensation Typesalary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)Type of criminal background check required:Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)Number of Vacancies1Target Hire Date6/22/2026Expected End Date12/31/2026Contact Information for CandidatesHR-OPSC@arizona.eduOpen Date5/1/2026Open Until FilledYesDocuments Needed to ApplyCurriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover LetterSpecial Instructions to ApplicantNotice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety ReportIn compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.