PostDoc - Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics (Open)

Research Topics:

• Thermalization and Non-Equilibrium Quantum Dynamics: Investigate the mechanisms governing relaxation and thermalization in quantum many-body systems. 
• Quantum Many-Body Scars: Explore the origin and properties of scar states, focusing on how they lead to non-ergodic behavior in otherwise thermalizing systems.
• Time Crystals: Theoretically study time-translational symmetry breaking and related out-of-equilibrium phenomena.
• Many-Body Localization (MBL): Analyze the interplay between disorder, interactions, and ergodicity-breaking in strongly correlated quantum systems. Responsibilities:
• Develop and apply analytical approaches (e.g., field-theoretic methods, perturbation theory, symmetry analyses) to characterize complex many-body phenomena.
• Employ numerical techniques such as exact diagonalization, matrix product states (e.g., DMRG/TEBD), and other state-of-the-art methods to study large-scale systems.
• Collaborate with faculty, postdocs, and students in a vibrant research team, as well as present findings at group meetings and conferences.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in leading peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to the broader research community, potentially mentoring junior group members (for postdoctoral candidates).

• PhD (or nearing completion for a PhD applicant) in Physics, or a closely related field, with a strong background in theoretical condensed matter physics, quantum information, or related areas.
• Demonstrated experience with numerical methods (exact diagonalization, DMRG, matrix product states) and proficiency in programming languages commonly used for scientific computing (e.g., Python, C++, Julia, or MATLAB).
• A solid foundation in the analytical techniques of quantum many-body physics, including familiarity with model Hamiltonians, symmetry arguments, and perturbative methods.
• A track record of independent research, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications or significant conference presentations. 
• Excellent communication skills and a commitment to collaborative research.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2025/08/20

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The candidate will join an experienced team based in Donostia, at DIPC.

Interested candidates should submit the following documentation to the following application email below. 

Cover Letter describing their research interests, relevant experience, and career goals.

Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a list of publications.

Research Statement (1-3 pages) outlining past work and proposed future research directions relevant to this position.

Contact Information for References (typically 2-3 referees who can comment on the candidate's qualifications).

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2025/02
• Application deadline: 2025/02/04
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (40%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (40%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

This project has received funding from the European Union’s grant program “Horizon 2020-SUPERFLAT” under grant agreement 101020833