Postdoctoral positions in scattering amplitudes

Physics World; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in the UK is inviting applications for two Postdoctoral Research Associate positions focused on scattering amplitudes and their applications in gauge theory and gravity. These full-time roles are funded by the ERC and offer opportunities for independent research. Ideal candidates will have a PhD in Physics or a related field and experience in relevant research areas, with applications due by December 5, 2025.

Benefits

Substantial travel budget

Research budget

Qualifications

• Candidates should have experience with scattering amplitudes.
• Familiarity with time-dependent spacetimes is advantageous.
• Ability to conduct independent research is essential.

Responsibilities

• Investigate applications of scattering amplitudes in gauge theory and gravity.
• Develop and pursue an individual research programme.
• Collaborate with faculty members on various research activities.

Skills

Research in gauge theory

Computing classical observables

Understanding of quantum field theory

Education

PhD in Physics or a related field

Job description

Applications are invited for up to two Postdoctoral Research Associate positions at the Higgs Centre for Theoretical Physics, to work on applications of scattering amplitudes and the double copy in gauge theory and gravity. These are three-year full-time fixed-term positions, ideally beginning in September 2026. They are funded by the ERC Advanced Grant “Classical and Semiclassical Aspects of Amplitudes” held by Donal O'Connell.

Research activities include studying the interplay of large gauge transformations, amplitudes and observables; computing (semi)classical observables using the techniques of quantum field theory, and investigating amplitudes in time-dependent spacetimes.

The Higgs Centre is one of the world's leading centres for expertise in scattering amplitudes. The Centre is a component of the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Edinburgh. Current faculty members are Samuel Abreu, Tim Adamo, Einan Gardi, Franz Herzog, Anton Ilderton, Andrew McLeod, Donal O'Connell and Mao Zeng. We maintain close links with the wider high energy theory community in Edinburgh. Successful candidates will join the Particle Physics Theory group, which conducts research in cosmology, lattice gauge theory, particle physics phenomenology, scattering amplitudes as well as broad aspects of formal theory. There are 22 faculty members, 14 postdoctoral research associates, and 24 PhD students. In addition to working with the grant holder, successful candidates will be encouraged to develop and pursue their own individual research programmes. The positions come with substantial travel and research budgets.

Applications must be submitted at the University of Edinburgh site, with reference letters emailed as described below.

Please ensure you include:

• Your CV, cover letter and publication list;
• A statement of research experience and interests (maximum 2 pages);
• Please arrange for 3 letters of reference to be sent to [e-mail] by the deadline, quoting the position reference number 13333.

The deadline for applications is 5 December 2025. We anticipate that interviews for shortlisted candidates will commence from Dec 15 2025.