Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics

Heriot-Watt University

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Detailed Description 

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in mathematical physics at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. The position is available from 1st October 2025 for a 2-year, full-time contract. Possible projects include the computation of nonperturbative scattering amplitudes, the study of thermalization and chaotic behaviour in quantum field theories, and the application of Hamiltonian methods to gauge theories, though you will also be encouraged to develop and pursue your own research directions.

Applicants should have a PhD in physics and a track record of research excellence in quantum field theory, effective field theory, conformal field theory, nonperturbative methods, or related areas. We strongly encourage applicants from underrepresented groups or from institutions with limited resources.

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

• Take a leading role in the research group, developing new research projects;
• Collaborate with members of the Heriot-Watt mathematical physics group, as well as pursue independent collaborations with researchers at other institutions;
• Co-supervise potential PhD students who will be collaborating on research projects;
• Attend weekly research group meetings, as well as the biweekly Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group joint seminar;
• Interact with other Postdoctoral Research Associates and PhD students working on related projects;
• 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:

• Hold a PhD (or near completion) in Physics, Theoretical Physics, or Mathematical Physics;
• Research experience in quantum field theory;
• Experience in delivering research results in an academic context; e.g. a record of peer-reviewed journal publications and conference presentations;
• Ability to work independently, exercising a high degree of initiative and demonstrating a proactive and flexible approach to research.

Desirable:

• Experience with nonperturbative methods;
• Experience with conformal field theory and effective field theor;
• Experience supervising graduate student research.

Apply NowDeadline 10 July