Research Fellow - School of Physics and Astronomy - 105359 - Grade 7

Position Details

School of Physics and Astronomy

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7, salary £41,421.

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to June 2028

Closing date: 16th March 2025

UK and International travel may be required for this role.

Background

Applications are open for a postdoctoral position in the research group led by Dimitri Gangardt at the University of Birmingham. The duration is three years. The group’s research is operating in the area of quantum statistical physics with specific focus on non-equilibrium quantum many-body dynamics. Specific topics of interest include dynamics of strongly correlated integrable models, (generalised) hydrodynamics, dynamical quantum phase transitions and quantum information. The ideal candidate has postdoctoral experience and is proficient in non-equilibrium field-theoretic techniques such as Keldysh functional integrals, Feynman diagrams, and non-perturbative methods. Responsibilities include developing theoretical models, collaborating with experimental physicists and publishing in top-tier journals.

Role requirements:

• PhD (or near to completion), or equivalent, in physics with postdoctoral research experience
• Strong record of research in theoretical condensed matter physics, ultracold atoms, along with experience in non-Hermitian physics, topological phenomena, and quantum information, or a closely related field
• Ability to build relationships and collaborate with others

Please attach a CV and contact details for two referees to your application.

Role Summary

We seek an individual with a theoretical background and work experience in theoretical treatment of non-equilibrium many-body dynamics primarily in one or more of: ultracold atoms, topological physics, quantum information or condensed matter. The successful candidate will develop the necessary theoretical models and perform computational calculations to explore various scenarios of quantum dynamical behaviour. This project involves a high degree of teamwork and interdisciplinary research, with the possibility of collaborating with experimental groups.

The candidate is expected to work towards objectives of “Quantum Limit Shapes” research grant.

Main Duties

The responsibilities may include some, but not all the responsibilities outlined below.

• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required. Contribute to writing bids for research funding
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques, and methods, analyse and interpret data and apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
• Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars and conferences
• Assist in supervising students on research-related work and provide guidance to PhD students and undergraduate project students on research-related work
• Undertake management/administration arising from research
• Contribute to research-related activities and research-related administration within the Theory Group and the School of Physics and Astronomy, including attending and participating in group meetings, seminars, and colloquia.
• Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
• Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at conferences, seminars and as posters in UK and abroad
• Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promote equality and value diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

• Have a PhD (or near to completion) in Physics (Theory), and have professional qualifications and professional experience
• Expertise in one (or more) of the following disciplines: field theory for non-equilibrium dynamics, topological physics, ultracold atoms, quantum many-body systems, quantum information
• Exceptional skills in computational simulations and/or analytical modelling for quantum many-body systems
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly to interdisciplinary audience
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
• Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
• Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Informal enquiries to Dimitri Gangardt, email: d.m.gangardt@bham.ac.uk

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