Postdoctoral Fellow in Mathematics/Physics

Nordita, The Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics, was founded in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1957. It moved to the AlbaNova University Center in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2007, where it is jointly hosted by KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University. Research at Nordita covers a broad range of theoretical physics including astrophysics, biophysics, condensed matter physics, gravitation, cosmology and astroparticle physics, high-energy physics, quantum information, soft matter and statistical physics/complex systems. The research activity of the local academic staff is supplemented by Nordita Scientific Programs, which bring together groups of leading experts to work on specific topics for extended periods. There is also ample opportunity for collaboration with faculty and research staff at local universities.

Further information about Nordita can be found at www.nordita.org.

Project description

The candidate is expected to carry out research and publish the results. Other tasks may involve helping with the management of the group, as well as supervision of students on research projects. The job description may be changed during the contract period or upon contract renewal.

There are no teaching requirements for this position, but for candidates interested in teaching, Nordita has connections with nearby institutions where it is sometimes possible to arrange teaching opportunities (Stockholm University, KTH, and Uppsala University). The position is meant to further the careers of early-career researchers who wish to pursue a career in academia.

This position is part of the Wallenberg Initiative on Networks and Quantum Information (WINQ), supported by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg foundation (KAW). It is aimed at nurturing and bringing together expertise from both quantum information science and complex dynamical systems to address major open challenges in these fields. WINQ is located within the conducive research environment of Nordita. Successful candidates for a position in WINQ may also have an opportunity to collaborate with other KAW initiatives across Sweden in the fields of artificial intelligence (WASP) and quantum technology (WACQT).

Research in WINQ has two main threads: quantum information processing (QIP) or complex dynamical networks (CDN). We also encourage applicants working at interfaces between those broadly defined areas. Relevant (but not exclusive) keywords for these fields include:

QIP: quantum computation; quantum algorithms; quantum information; quantum co-processors; quantum simulators; coding of quantum information; quantum error detection; quantum information sharing

CDN: neural network learning; chaotic dynamical systems; deep networks, spatiotemporal multiscale systems; multiplex-multilayer networks; neurobiological networks

This position is for a candidate to work with Matthew de Courcy-Ireland, one of the assistant professors in WINQ. Projects in this research group could have CDN aspects (dynamics and networks coming from special cubic equations and other systems) as well as QIP aspects (“golden gates”, quantum graphs, design of quantum circuits and algorithms, error correction, model problems such as packing and covering, semidefinite programming). An ideal candidate would have a background using rigorous techniques from mathematical analysis and number theory, specifically such as the circle method for quadratic and cubic equations. 

Main responsibilities

The position involves conducting research in accordance with the themes from the project description, under the direction of the PI or independently. 

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country. The degree must have been completed no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment criteria

It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage. Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to candidates with strong research background in mathematics. Candidates who have demonstrated independent research and have published in reputable journals will be given priority. An ideal candidate would have a background in line with the project description. 

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date as per agreement, aiming for fall 2025.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from the Head of Administration, Elizabeth Yang, phone: +46 8 553 784 73, elizabeth.yang@su.se, or the recruiting assistant professor Matthew de Courcy-Ireland, matthew.decourcy-ireland@math.su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form (including contact information for two referees). It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.