Postdoctoral Scholar - Theoretical Particle and Astroparticle Physics

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university is looking for a Postdoctoral Scholar in Theoretical Particle and Astroparticle Physics. The successful candidate will work on physics beyond the Standard Model and have the freedom to pursue independent research. Candidates should have a PhD in physics or a related field and experience in astroparticle physics. Applications are submitted electronically along with supporting documents, and the position is a one-year term with renewal possibility.

Qualifications

• Experience in astroparticle physics and BSM phenomenology.
• Ability to develop new detection methods and conduct astrophysical searches.

Skills

Astroparticle physics

BSM phenomenology

Development of new direct detection methods

Sub-GeV dark matter searches

Astrophysical searches of BSM physics

High-energy astroparticle transport calculations

Materials modeling/electronic structure calculations

Machine Learning/Deep Learning techniques

Education

PhD in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Eberly College of Science, Department of Physics at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking to fill a Postdoctoral Scholar position in Theoretical Particle and Astroparticle Physics to start in the fall of 2025.

The postdoc will work on topics broadly related to direct and indirect probes of physics beyond the Standard Model, using analytical and computational approaches. The successful applicant will join Dr. Carlos Blanco's research group with significant academic freedom to pursue independent research directions. The postdoc will work closely with faculty and postdocs in the physics and astronomy departments, and will have access to the resources and expertise of the Materials Research Institute (MRI) and the Institute of Computational and Data Sciences (ICDS).

Ideal candidates will have experience in astroparticle physics and BSM phenomenology. Special consideration will be given to candidates with expertise in any of the following areas:

• Development of new direct detection methods
• Sub‑GeV dark matter searches
• Astrophysical searches of BSM physics
• High‑energy astroparticle transport calculations
• Materials modeling/electronic structure calculations
• Machine Learning/Deep Learning techniques

Education and Experience: A PhD in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field must be completed before the position begins.

Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, CV, publication list, research statement, and three letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation should be sent by letter writers directly to Dr. Carlos Blanco at [e-mail]. Review of applications will begin December 15 and continue until a suitable candidate is found. This is a term appointment funded for one‑year from the date of hire with possibility of renewal.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.

University Park, PA