Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Field Theory and Spacetime Physics

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

The department has about 250 employees, of which 95 are doctoral students, and it has an international character. Fysikum is part of the AlbaNova University Center, which is a strong research center that, in addition to Fysikum, 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/enheter/fysikum (https://www.su.se/enheter/fysikum).

Stockholm University is part of the Stockholm Dual Career Network (SDCN), which supports partners of international recruitments with professional events, career-related advice, and by building social networks in their new hometown. You can read more here: https://www.staforum.se/sdcn/ (https://www.staforum.se/sdcn/).

Project Description

The position is linked to Dr. Magdalena Zych's research grant focusing on quantum aspects of spacetimes and their quantum optical analogs, funded by the Swedish Research Council. Dr. Zych is seeking a postdoctoral researcher who wishes to join her research group at Stockholm University. Currently, the group consists of two postdoctoral researchers and four doctoral students. The group's research generally lies at the intersection of quantum theory and general relativity.

Within this project, we particularly aim to further develop models for quantum fields in non-classical spacetimes, described through quantum mechanical boundary conditions or non-classical dispersion relations, as well as to explore indirect ways in which such spacetime non-classicality can be revealed through observations of the fields or via quantum systems that are coupled to fields existing in spacetime.

Job Responsibilities

The position involves research in collaboration with Dr. Zych as well as doctoral and master's students within the research group. The candidate is also expected to participate in and co-organize group activities such as seminars and journal clubs, participate in and present at scientific meetings, and contribute to the organization of conferences and workshops held locally.

A particular research focus for the position is to develop theoretical descriptions of quantum fields with quantum-controlled dispersion relations or boundary conditions, to identify connections between the physics of such fields and the physics of quantum fields in non-classical spacetimes, and to develop proposals for how signatures of non-classicality can be demonstrated, for example through measurements on matter interacting with the fields.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the position of postdoctoral researcher, a completed doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a relevant doctoral degree is required. The degree must be completed by the time the employment decision is made.

Assessment Criteria

It is advantageous if the doctoral 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, elected positions within trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or relevant service/assignments for the subject area.

In the appointment, special emphasis will be placed on scientific competence. For this position, good knowledge of quantum field theory and quantum mechanics is required, and previous research experience in areas relevant to the project is particularly meritorious, such as previous research in quantum field theory in curved spacetime or quantum information aspects of quantum fields (such as studies of entanglement or other types of correlations in quantum field theory and their extraction or quantification using quantum information methods).

About the Position

The position is full-time and is permanent, but for at least two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date 2026-08-01 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 environment and enjoy 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 Dr. Magdalena Zych, phone 08-5537 8627, [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 by the application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the website: 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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