Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Nuclear Quantum Effects in Non-Equilibrium Dynamics (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Cambridge in the Chemistry department invites applications for a fixed-term Research Associate (post-doc) to develop methodology based on imaginary-time path-integral approximations and apply it to non-equilibrium nuclear dynamics. The position offers a lively group and strong computational resources.

The successful candidate will benchmark models, develop new approaches, and collaborate with theory groups, with a strong emphasis on mathematical analysis and programming.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Chemistry or Materials Science (or near completion).
• Experience in quantum dynamics simulations and molecular dynamics.
• Proficiency in maths and programming is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop methodology based on imaginary-time path-integral approximations for dynamics.
• Benchmark model systems and develop new methodology for multi-dimensional systems.
• Collaborate with other theory groups and participate in international conferences.

Skills

Quantum dynamics simulations

Molecular dynamics techniques

Imaginary-time path integrals

Strong mathematical background

Programming expertise

Education

PhD in Physics, Chemistry or Materials Science

Tools

In-house code development

Large-scale nuclear dynamics code

Job description

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 year in the first instance. Applicants are invited to apply for a position of research associate (post-doc) in the group of Mariana Rossi.

For this position, the candidate will develop methodology based on imaginary-time path-integral approximations that can be applied to different flavours of non-equilibrium nuclear dynamics. The candidate will conduct benchmarks on model systems and develop new methodology that is applicable to multi-dimensional systems. Collaborative work with other theory groups is envisaged. The implementations will be performed on an in-house code for development and on a large-scale electronic nuclear dynamics code for applications.

The successful candidate will work in a lively group and an excellent research environment, with sufficient computational resources to complete the project hosted in the Chemistry department. Collaborations with other theory and experimental groups are welcome, and participation in international research conferences strongly supported.

We are looking for highly qualified candidates with experience in the field of quantum dynamics simulations, molecular dynamics techniques, as well as approximations to imaginary time path integrals for dynamics. Strong mathematical background and programming expertise is necessary. The candidate should have performed studies in the fields of Physics, Chemistry or Materials Science. We will select candidates that show proficiency in maths, as well as a strong background in theoretical and computational solid-state physics, physical chemistry or chemical physics. The candidate should have finished or be about to finish their PhD degree (or equivalent).

We particularly welcome applications from women and /or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our University.

The Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.