Postdoctoral Research Associate in Rare Events in Non-equilibrium Statistical Physics (Fixed Term)

A position exists for a Postdoctoral Research Associate within the Soft Matter Group in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics. The position is funded by a UKRI Grant titled "Nucleation and Extinction in Non-equilibrium Statistical Field Theories".

Progress in large deviation theory has created tools to address non-equilibrium rare events. We are currently extending these tools to field-theoretic models of the kind used to describe, for example, phase transition dynamics in active fluids; the invasion of a species into a new environment; noise-induced transition between attractors in fluid dynamics and/or ecosystem models; and noise-induced extinction of a population, gene, or behavioural trait.

The appointee will develop analytical and numerical tools to address rare events in various stochastic field theories. They will need strong familiarity with statistical field theory and at least some acquaintance with large deviation theory, or vice versa, and the ability to combine analytical and numerical skills to solve complex problems. We welcome candidates with an interest in ecosystem or population dynamics, and/or pattern formation far from equilibrium. The appointee will be working alongside two other postdoctoral researchers currently in place.

The role involves conducting original research in mathematics, developing individual and collaborative research objectives, proposals and projects, and disseminating research findings through presentations and publications. You will plan and manage your own research activities, contribute to collaborative projects and funding proposals, maintain and develop your specialist knowledge, and communicate complex technical material. You will also be expected to build internal and external networks and contribute to the wider mathematical community. The role may additionally involve supporting student research and project supervision, providing limited instruction, and planning and delivering research seminars.

Applicants should hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in Theoretical Physics, Applied Mathematics or a closely related field.

Appointment at Research Associate level is conditional upon the candidate being awarded their PhD. Candidates who have submitted their thesis but have not yet been formally awarded their PhD will initially be appointed at Research Assistant level and will progress to Research Associate level once their PhD has been awarded.

Informal enquiries can be made by contacting either Mike Cates at mec22@cam.ac.uk, or Rob Jack at rlj22@cam.ac.uk. However, we are generally unable to read CV's or other application materials before a formal application is made.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please provide the contact details of two academic referees on the online application form, and upload a full curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and a one-page summary of research achievements. Please ensure that at least one of your referees is contactable at any time during the selection process and is made aware that they will be contacted by the Mathematics HR Office Administrator to request that they upload a reference for you to our Web Recruitment System; and please encourage them to do so promptly.

Closing date for applications is Friday, 15 January 2027. References will be contacted promptly upon receipt of applications, and all reference letters must be submitted by Friday, 22 January 2027.

Interviews will take place online in February 2027.

We welcome applications from candidates who are available to commence employment on or before 01 October 2027. An earlier start date, as early as June 2027, is preferred if feasible. Please note that the grant funding ends on 31 December 2028, with the duration of the appointment limited accordingly.

Please quote reference LE51584 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.