Postdoctoral Fellow in Quantum Gravity-Philosophy of Physics

The Department of Philosophy at Stockholm University is the largest in Sweden, with vibrant research groups in a wide range of philosophical disciplines. The department has a strong international profile: we frequently host internationally prominent colloquium speakers and other visitors, and we are involved in numerous international and national networks and research projects. In theoretical philosophy, examples would be the department's Centre for Logic, Language and Mind (CLLAM), the interdisciplinary research program on Knowledge Resistance (funded by Riksbankens Jubileumsfond), the interdisciplinary Centre for Medieval Studies, as well as networks such as PLM, the Nordic Network for Philosophy of Physics, the Scandinavian Logic Society, and the European Society for Ancient Philosophy. Stockholm University has repeatedly selected philosophy as one of its leading research areas.

For more information about us, please visit: the Department of Philosophy.

Project description

The position is part of a Templeton-funded project on the emergence of spacetime in quantum gravity led by Prof. Richard Dawid (Philosophy, SU) and Asst. Prof. Guilherme Franzmann (Nordita).

The post-doc will work primarily on:

• comparative analyses of how space and time emerge in algebraic and entanglement-based frameworks ;
• observer-dependence, perspectivalism, and the prospects for scientific realism in quantum-gravity dualities and emergence of spacetime. 

Both groups offer a lively research atmosphere that bridges physics and philosophy, with access to Nordita’s visitors’ programmes, SU’s Philosophy of Science community, and the broader Stockholm quantum-gravity network. 

Main responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research aligned with the objectives above, leading to publications and conference presentations.
• Contribute some teaching (typically one course per year in Philosophy of Science or Philosophy of Physics). Engage in seminar and workshop organisation and in outreach activities of the project.
• Organising a workshop together with the PIs in September 2026 in Stockholm on the philosophy of quantum gravity. 

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.

Ability to teach in English, knowledge of Swedish is not required.

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 in fall 2025 or as per agreement. 

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 favourable 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 professor Richard Dawid, richard.dawid@philosophy.su.se or asst. professor Guilherme Franzmann, guilherme.franzmann@su.se. 

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter(including a research statement) and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. 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.