Postdoctoral Research Associate - Theoretical Nuclear Physics and Quantum Computing

Position Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Theoretical Nuclear Physics and Quantum Computing

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct theoretical nuclear physics research with an emphasis on ab initio Hamiltonian methods and their applications to quantum computing. The successful candidate will develop and apply advanced computational approaches in light-front quantized field theory or microscopic nuclear structure theory to investigate fundamental properties of atomic nuclei and strongly interacting quantum systems.

This position is expected to be funded for one year, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon the availability of funding.

Responsibilities include performing independent and collaborative research, developing innovative theoretical and computational techniques, publishing results in peer-reviewed journals, presenting findings at scientific conferences, and contributing to research proposals and interdisciplinary collaborations.

The position offers opportunities to work at the intersection of nuclear physics, quantum information science, and high-performance computing.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Theoretical Nuclear Physics, Particle Physics, or a closely related field by the position start date.

Experience in ab initio nuclear theory or Hamiltonian light-front field theory.

Demonstrated record of scholarly achievement, including publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience using high-performance computing (HPC).
• Experience with quantum computing.
• Department/Program & College Description: The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Iowa State University is dedicated to advancing the understanding of the universe through excellence in research, education, and innovation. The department maintains nationally recognized theoretical and experimental research programs in astrophysics, condensed matter physics, high-energy physics, and nuclear physics, providing a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment for discovery. Faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and students work together to address fundamental scientific questions using advanced computational, experimental, and analytical approaches.
• Department Unit/Website: Department of Physics and Astronomy
• Application Instructions: To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of Application/Cover Letter
• Why Choose Iowa State University?
• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.
• If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
• Proposed Start Date: December 2, 2026
• Number of Months Employed Per Year: 12 Month Work Period
• Time Type: Full time
• Pay Grade: Post Docs
• Original Posting Date: October 19, 2026
• Posting Close Date: November 1, 2026
• Job Requisition Number: R20105
• Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu .
• General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.