Postdoctoral Fellow in Primordial magnetic field evolution

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 will work on the end-to-end modelling of magnetic field evolution from the early Universe to the present epoch. In particular, one postdoc will focus on the early Universe dynamics and the other on the dynamics during the recombination era. This is part of a joint effort within the ERC Synergy Grant COSMOMAG with Andrii Neronov (APC and Lausanne), Chiara Caprini (CERN and CNRS), and Franco Vazza (U Bologna). Additional postdoc and PhD positions will be advertised in the following years. Frequent visits between the nodes of COSMOMAG are to be envisaged for discussions and joint coordination of the work.

The COSMOMAG project aims at pinning down the origin of cosmological magnetic fields by developing a unified framework tackling the problem from the initial conditions in the early universe up to observations in the present universe: we will study the magnetic field generation in the early universe, use numerical methods to evolve them throughout the universe and predict observable signatures today, to be tested mainly via gamma-ray, radio and gravitational waves observations.

The project consists of understanding the evolution of primordial magnetic fields before Recombination. The phenomenology of magnetic fields decay is still debated, and to firmly establish the correct decay laws, numerical simulations are essential. In this context, we will mainly use the Pencil Code to simulate the magnetic field evolution from generation to Recombination, complemented with analytical understanding to interpret the simulation results.

The project will address a number of topics including:

• the generation of magnetic fields in the early universe at the end of inflation and during the electroweak and QCD phase transitions
• the magnetic field evolution through the epoch of recombination

The successful candidate will work with Professor Axel Brandenburg at Nordita with the possibility of close collaborations with Professors Chiara Caprini, Andrii Neronov, and Franco Vazza. There will also be regular virtual and in-person meetings with other members of the synergy project, as well as members of the astrophysics group at Nordita.   

Main responsibilities

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

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. Familiarity with the numerical simulations in highly beneficial. 

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, spring or fall semester 2026. 

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 Professor Axel Brandenburg brandenb@nordita.org 

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter, CV with work experience and a list of publications, research proposal as well as the attachments requested in the application form, including contact details for two scientists willing to provide letters of recommendation. 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.