Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Complexity

Fysikum is one of the larger institutions within the Faculty of Science, with a broad fundamental research activity, both experimental and theoretical.

The department has about 250 employees, of which 95 are PhD students, and it has an international character. Fysikum is part of the AlbaNova University Center, which is a strong research center, and which, in addition to Fysikum, also houses the Department of Astronomy, the physics departments at KTH, and the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics, Nordita. More information about us can be found at https://www.su.se/fysikum/ (https://www.su.se/fysikum/)

Project Description

Complexity is a fundamental concept that quantifies the difficulty of performing a certain task, given a specific set of allowed simple operations and a procedure to achieve it. As such, it is an important part of many fields from mathematics to computer science. Surprisingly, physics still lacks an exact definition of quantum complexity, and this is one of the most pressing problems at the forefront of quantum theory and quantum gravity.

The position within the ERC Consolidator project "Quantum Complexity from Quantum Field Theories to Quantum Gravity" (Project Leader Pawel Caputa) aims to address this gap.

The goal of the project is to develop universal measures of quantum complexity for many-body systems, quantum field theories, and quantum gravity. The project's milestones include: synthesizing and developing physical measures of complexity, formulating them in exact holographic models, and applying them to shed new light on the physics behind black hole horizons and spacetime singularities.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities mainly involve research conducted in close collaboration with the project leader, PhD students, and other members of the group. The role will also include assisting in organizing group activities.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a postdoctoral position, a PhD degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a relevant PhD is required. The degree must have been awarded no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment Criteria

It is advantageous if the PhD degree or equivalent has been awarded no more than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, an earlier awarded degree may also be considered advantageous. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, trust assignments within trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or relevant service/assignments in the subject area.

In the appointment, particular emphasis will be placed on experience in Ads/CFT correspondence, quantum field theory, quantum complexity, and quantum information.

About the Position

The position is full-time and is permanent, but for at least two years and at most three years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date is 2026-09-01 or by agreement.

We Offer

With us, you will experience the dynamics of the interplay between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international setting and receive favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good connections to the city.

Stockholm University is committed to being a workplace free from discrimination and providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Inquiries about the position can be made to Pawel Caputa, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the documents requested in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that the application is complete and that it reaches the university no later than the application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the webpage: https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-på-su/att-söka-en-anställning (https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-p%C3%A5-su/att-s%C3%B6ka-en-anst%C3%A4llning).

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