Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theoretical Physics
Salary: Grade 7 (£37,694 - £47,389)
Contract: Full-Time (35 hours per week), Fixed Term for 24 months
Detailed Description
Possible projects include the computation of nonperturbative scattering amplitudes, the study of thermalization and chaotic behaviour in quantum field theories, and the derivation of universal constraints on higher-dimensional theories of quantum gravity from the perspective of conformal field theories, though you will also be encouraged to develop and pursue your own research directions.
Applicants should have a PhD in theoretical physics (high energy, condensed matter, mathematical physics, etc) and a track record of research excellence in quantum field theory, conformal field theory, holography, or related areas. We strongly encourage applicants from underrepresented groups or from institutions with limited resources.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Take a leading role in the research group, developing new research projects
2. Collaborate with members of the Heriot-Watt mathematical physics group, as well as pursue independent collaborations with researchers at other institutions
3. Co-supervise potential PhD students who will be collaborating on research projects
4. Attend weekly research group meetings, as well as the biweekly Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group joint seminar
5. Interact with other Postdoctoral Research Associates and PhD students working on related projects
6. Contribute to the organisation of local seminars or workshops as necessary
Education, Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate will have the following skills and experience:
Essential
7. Hold a PhD (or near completion) in Physics, Theoretical Physics, or Mathematical Physics
8. Research experience in quantum field theory
9. Experience in delivering research results in an academic context; e.g. a record of peer-reviewed journal publications and conference presentations
10. Ability to work independently, exercising a high degree of initiative and demonstrating a proactive and flexible approach to research
Desirable
11. Experience with nonperturbative methods
12. Experience with conformal field theory and holography
13. Experience with scattering amplitudes
14. Experience with thermalization and quantum chaos