Lead Computational Physicist - Simulation & Modeling

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 198,000 - 311,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Professional development allowances

Conference access

Cutting-edge computational resources

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Computational Physicist for a fully remote role. You will spearhead development of advanced computational models and simulations, collaborating with theoretical physicists and experimentalists to guide research directions and validate models.

The position rewards autonomy, rigorous publication activity, and leadership of remote teams across international projects. Candidates should hold a PhD in Physics or computational science, at least seven years post-PhD

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Computational Science, or related field.
• 7+ years post-PhD in computational physics with simulations.
• Strong programming in C++, Python, Fortran; HPC experience.
• Proficiency with MPI, OpenMP, CUDA; numerical methods knowledge.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of computational physics models and simulations.
• Develop and optimize numerical algorithms for complex equations.
• Analyze simulation results and provide deep physical insights.
• Collaborate with theorists and experimentalists to guide research directions.
• Mentor junior scientists and post-docs; lead remote teams.
• Contribute to grant proposals and publish in top journals.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

PhD in Physics/Computational Science

Tools

C++

Python

Fortran

MPI

OpenMP

CUDA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly innovative research and development firm at the cutting edge of theoretical physics and applied science, is seeking a Lead Computational Physicist. This position is fully remote, allowing exceptional candidates to contribute from anywhere globally, though the company fosters a strong connection with its origins in **Kimberley**, Northern Cape, ZA. You will spearhead the development and application of advanced computational models and simulations to solve complex physics problems across various domains, potentially including condensed matter physics, astrophysics, or particle physics. The ideal candidate possesses a profound theoretical understanding, exceptional programming skills, and a proven ability to lead challenging simulation projects. This role is crucial for advancing our client's scientific frontiers and requires a thought leader with a significant publication record and a passion for discovery. The fully remote nature emphasizes autonomy and results.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of sophisticated computational physics models and simulations.
• Develop and optimize numerical algorithms for solving complex physical equations.
• Analyze and interpret simulation results, providing deep insights into physical phenomena.
• Collaborate with theoretical physicists and experimentalists to guide research directions and validate models.
• Mentor and guide junior computational scientists and post-doctoral researchers.
• Contribute to grant proposals and secure external research funding.
• Publish research findings in top-tier scientific journals and present at international conferences.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in computational physics, numerical methods, and relevant scientific fields.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Computational Science, or a closely related field with a strong emphasis on computational physics.
• A minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in computational physics, with a strong focus on simulation and modeling.
• Expertise in programming languages such as C++, Python, Fortran, and experience with high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
• Proficiency with scientific computing libraries and frameworks (e.g., MPI, OpenMP, CUDA).
• Deep understanding of theoretical physics principles relevant to the field (e.g., quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, electromagnetism).
• Proven experience in developing and applying numerical methods (e.g., finite difference, finite element, Monte Carlo).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to lead remote teams.
• A strong publication record in reputable scientific journals.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package and a comprehensive benefits plan, recognizing the specialized skills required for this leadership role. As this position is fully remote, we offer unparalleled flexibility and support for a productive home-based work environment. This includes professional development allowances, opportunities to attend leading international conferences, and access to cutting-edge computational resources. While based virtually, you will be an integral part of a globally distributed, high-impact research team. This is a unique opportunity to drive significant advancements in computational physics from anywhere, contributing to groundbreaking scientific endeavors and leveraging the spirit of innovation from **Kimberley**, ZA, to the world.