Postdoctoral Scholar in Theoretical Chemistry

University of California - Merced; Merced, California, Village of Avon (CA, MO, NY); On-site; USD 66,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

An established institution is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar in Theoretical Chemistry to join a dynamic research group. This full-time position offers the opportunity to develop innovative methods in quantum chemistry and engage in exciting projects with international collaborations. The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in a relevant field and have a strong background in programming and quantum simulations. With access to advanced computational resources, this role promises a stimulating environment for research and professional growth. Join a forward-thinking academic community dedicated to excellence in research and education.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in Chemistry, Physics, or related field.
• Experience with programming and quantum simulations is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop new methods related to tensor network states.
• Engage in international collaborations and present at conferences.

Skills

Method Development

Quantum Simulations

Programming (Python, Julia, C++, Fortran)

Oral and Written Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry

Ph.D. in Physics

Ph.D. in Related Field

Job description

Position overview
Position title:
Postdoctoral Scholar in Theoretical Chemistry.

Salary range:
See Table 23 for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $66,727 - $80,034.

Percent time:
100%

Anticipated start:
September 2025

Position duration:
2 year position

Application Window

Open date: February 21, 2025

Most recent review date: Sunday, Mar 30, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

Final date: Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

Position description

Applications are invited for a full-time postdoctoral research position in Professor Henrik R. Larsson's theoretical chemistry group at University of California, Merced.

The position will involve developing new methods related to tensor network states (e.g. DMRG, MCTDH, TTNS) and applying them to problems in theoretical quantum chemistry and theoretical chemical physics. Of particular interest are candidates who are interested in research in one or more of the following: Quantum vibrational dynamics and structure, multireference electronic structure, attosecond electron dynamics, and machine learning and pattern recognition of quantum wavefunctions.

Some of the possible projects involve international collaborations. Available computational resources include two shared clusters at Merced, computing nodes dedicated to the group, and the San Diego Super Computing Center. The postdoctoral scholar will be expected to present and engage at international conferences, writing journal articles, and assist with mentoring students.

More information about the Larsson group can be found at https://larsson-research.de/ .

Some relevant publications are:

• Wahyutama, Larsson, J. Chem. Theory Comput., 2024, https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jctc.4c01185
  


• Larsson, Mol. Phys, 2024, Mol. Phys., 2024, https://doi.org/10.1080/00268976.2024.2306881
  


• Larsson, Viel, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4CP02653E
  


• Larsson et al., Chem. Sci. 2022, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03189B
  


• Larsson et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2022, https://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.2c06357
  


• Larsson, J. Chem. Phys. 2019, https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5130390
  

Qualifications

Basic qualifications

Applicant must have a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, or a related field. Experience with method development, quantum simulations (broadly defined), programming (python, julia, C++, Fortran), and excellent oral and written communication skills are required.

Preferred qualifications

The ideal candidate has experience in developing computational methods in the fields of theoretical chemistry/physics.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  
  

• Cover Letter

  
  

• Authorization of Information Release - As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

  
  

  "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.

  
  

  Required Authorization of Information Release may be found here. Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application.

  
  

Reference requirements

• 3 required (contact information only)

Apply link:
https://aprecruit.ucmerced.edu/JPF01889

Help contact: [e-mail]

About UC Merced

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.

Required Authorization of Information Release may be found here. Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application.

Additional links: UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy, the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy, and APM 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment.

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses. Ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and recently designated as an R1 institution by Carnegie, UC Merced is committed to innovation and excellence in research. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students (https://cie.ucmerced.edu/analytics-hub/student-statistics), UC Merced provides outstanding, inclusive educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. This includes the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs.

Job location

Merced, CA