Physics

Location: Guildford
Salary: £32,344 to £33,309 per annum
Fixed Term
Post Type: Full Time
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Friday 05 August 2022
Reference: 045522

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) position in the theoretical nuclear physics group at the University of Surrey to work on a research project developing and applying quantum computing algorithms to tackle problems in nuclear structure as part of an STFC-funded Developing Quantum Technologies for Fundamental Physics programme. The work will involve developing new algorithms and/or applying existing algorithms to solve nuclear models such as the shell model and mean field model, and to look at dynamical processes such as nuclear decay.

The successful applicant will join a group working on nuclear quantum algorithms led by Dr Paul Stevenson, and will collaborate with the PhD students in the group, along with other staff members in the nuclear theory group and quantum foundations centre. Outside the university we collaborate with a mix of industry and academic partners. The quantum algorithms group is part of the theoretical nuclear physics group, which sits in the Physics Department along with groups in experimental nuclear physics, astrophysics, radiation and medical physics, soft matter, and photonics. A virtual quantum foundations group links beyond the Physics Department to those working on open quantum systems and other foundational aspects of quantum mechanics research in the University.

The University supports development of research skills as well as generic transferrable skills such as leadership, communication and project management. The Department is diverse and inclusive, and we welcome applications from candidates of any gender, ethnicity or background.

Candidates must hold (or be close to completion of) a PhD in physics, computer science, applied mathematics or a closely related discipline, with a track record commensurate with the ability to work in the stated research area.

Candidates should apply online and provide a CV with publication list, and a 1-2 page covering letter with statement summarising past research.

The position runs for up to two years with a start date ideally as soon as possible. Candidates are encouraged to email Dr Paul Stevenson (p.stevenson@surrey.ac.uk) if they have any questions.

Interviews to take place Wednesday 31 August.

Further details: Job Description

Please note, it is University Policy to offer a starting salary equivalent to Level 3.6 (£32,344) to successful applicants who have been awarded, but are yet to receive, their PhD certificate. Once the original PhD certificate has been submitted to the local HR Department, the salary will be increased to Level 4.1 (£33,309).