Postdoctoral Research Associate - Theoretical Nuclear Physics and Quantum Computing

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); Sur place; USD 60 000 - 80 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

Iowa State University in Ames invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theoretical Nuclear Physics and Quantum Computing. This position focuses on ab initio Hamiltonian methods and their applications to quantum computing, developing computational approaches in light-front quantized field theory.

The appointment is funded for one year with potential renewal based on funding, and involves independent and collaborative research, publishing in peer‑reviewed journals, presenting

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Theoretical Nuclear Physics or closely related field by start date.
• Experience in ab initio nuclear theory or Hamiltonian light-front field theory.
• Record of scholarly publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience using high-performance computing (HPC).
• Experience with quantum computing.

Responsabilités

• Conduct theoretical nuclear physics research focusing on ab initio Hamiltonian methods.
• Develop computational approaches in light-front quantized field theory or microscopic nuclear structure theory.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Contribute to research proposals and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Connaissances

Theoretical physics

Ab initio nuclear theory

Light-front field theory

Peer-reviewed publications

Collaborative research

Formation

Ph.D. in Theoretical Nuclear Physics or closely related field

Outils

HPC systems

Quantum computing

Description du poste

Position Title

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Theoretical Nuclear Physics and Quantum Computing

Appointment Type

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct theoretical nuclear physics research with an emphasis on ab initio Hamiltonian methods and their applications to quantum computing. The successful candidate will develop and apply advanced computational approaches in light-front quantized field theory or microscopic nuclear structure theory to investigate fundamental properties of atomic nuclei and strongly interacting quantum systems. This position is expected to be funded for one year, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon the availability of funding.

Responsibilities include performing independent and collaborative research, developing innovative theoretical and computational techniques, publishing results in peer-reviewed journals, presenting findings at scientific conferences, and contributing to research proposals and interdisciplinary collaborations.

The position offers opportunities to work at the intersection of nuclear physics, quantum information science, and high-performance computing.

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Theoretical Nuclear Physics, Particle Physics, or a closely related field by the position start date.
• Experience in ab initio nuclear theory or Hamiltonian light-front field theory.
• Demonstrated record of scholarly achievement, including publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using high-performance computing (HPC).
• Experience with quantum computing.

Department/Program & College Description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Iowa State University is dedicated to advancing the understanding of the universe through excellence in research, education, and innovation. The department maintains nationally recognized theoretical and experimental research programs in astrophysics, condensed matter physics, high-energy physics, and nuclear physics, providing a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment for discovery. Faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and students work together to address fundamental scientific questions using advanced computational, experimental, and analytical approaches.

Department Unit/Website

Department of Physics and Astronomy

Why Choose Iowa State University?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [e-mail], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Proposed Start Date

December 2, 2026

Number Of Months Employed Per Year

12 Month Work Period

Time Type

Full time

Pay Grade

Post Docs

Original Posting Date

October 19, 2026

Posting Close Date

November 1, 2026

Job Requisition Number

R20105

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. [phone], email [e-mail].

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.