Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theoretical Physics

Physics World; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in the United Kingdom is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in theoretical physics. This full-time role, funded by the Royal Society University Research Fellowship, offers an opportunity to engage in research on quantum field theory and related topics within the Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group. The ideal candidate will hold or nearly complete a PhD in theoretical physics, demonstrating research excellence. Applications are due by 11:59pm UK time on 8th January 2026.

Qualifications

• Near completion of PhD in theoretical physics (high energy, condensed matter, mathematical physics).
• Proven track record of research excellence in related areas.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on quantum field theory and related topics.
• Join the Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group for collaborative projects.

Skills

Quantum field theory

Conformal field theory

Research excellence

Education

PhD in theoretical physics

Job description

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in theoretical physics at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. The position is available from 1st September 2026 for a 2+1-year, full-time contract.

This position is funded by the Royal Society University Research Fellowship of Matthew Walters to pursue research on quantum field theory, conformal bootstrap, holography, or related topics (see past work here ). The selected candidate will join the Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group, a joint research collaboration between Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh. The EMPG consists of twenty faculty members and multiple postdoctoral researchers and PhD students, pursuing research in many aspects of field theory, string theory, and integrability (for more information, see the group website ).

Applicants should have (or be near completion of) a PhD in theoretical physics (high energy, condensed matter, mathematical physics, etc) and a track record of research excellence in quantum field theory, conformal field theory, holography, or related areas. We strongly encourage applicants from underrepresented groups or from institutions with limited resources.

Applications must be submitted here by 11:59pm UK time on 8th January 2026. Please include the following:

• Full CV that includes a list of publications;
• Brief (no more than 3 pages) research statement detailing both your previous research experience and your future research interests;
• Contact information for 2 senior researchers willing to submit letters of recommendation discussing your research experience.