Postdoctoral Associate or Research Associate

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech is seeking a postdoctoral associate or research associate in High Energy Theoretical Physics and String Theory in the Department of Physics. The focus includes string compactifications, sigma models, F-theory, effective theories, and string geometry and phenomenology.

The successful candidate will collaborate with a research team, publish in peer‑reviewed journals, and contribute to mentoring junior researchers where appropriate.

Qualifications

• A strong background in string theory with peer‑reviewed publications is necessary.
• To be considered for the research associate position, a master's degree in a relevant field and prior research experience are required.
• To be considered for the postdoctoral associate position, a doctorate degree in a relevant field is required.

Responsibilities

• The position focuses on string theory including compactifications, sigma models, F-theory, effective theories and string geometry and phenomenology.
• Collaborative work with faculty and students to advance research projects.

Skills

String theory background

Publications

Collaboration skills

Programming experience

Mentoring experience

Education

Master's degree in a relevant field

Doctorate degree in a relevant field

Job description

Job Description

Seeking a postdoctoral associate or research associate position (depending on experience) in High Energy Theoretical Physics and String Theory in the Department of Physics at Virginia Tech. The focus of the position is on string theory, including string compactifications, sigma models, F-theory, effective theories and string geometry and phenomenology.

Required Qualifications

• A strong background in string theory with a history of peer-reviewed publications is necessary.
• To be considered for the research associate position, a master's degree in a relevant field and prior research experience is required.
• To be considered for the postdoctoral associate position, a doctorate degree in a relevant field is required.
• Good collaborative skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Programming experience.
• Ability to work under limited supervision.
• For research associate position, some experience mentoring junior researchers is preferred.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience and position

Hours per week

40 hours - exempt position

Review Date

12/01/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

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If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jackie Woodyard at [e-mail] regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.