Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics

Oxford Full-Time 41636 - 47779 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Institute of Mathematics and its Applications

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Conduct independent and collaborative research in theoretical physics and explore generalized symmetries.
  • Company: Join the prestigious Mathematical Institute at the University of Oxford.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for academic growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research within a renowned institution.
  • Qualifications: PhD in theoretical or mathematical physics or related discipline required.
  • Other info: Fixed-term position with a focus on innovative research and collaboration.

The predicted salary is between 41636 - 47779 £ per year.

We are currently inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in the Mathematical Physics Group at the Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford. This is a fixed-term position for 36 months, funded by the UKRI Frontier Research grant (based on an ERC Advanced Grant, Schafer-Nameki). We anticipate the start date of this position to be no later than 1 October 2026.

The successful candidates will conduct independent and collaborative research which explores generalized symmetries in the context of various subfields of theoretical physics, including quantum field theory, condensed matter physics and/or quantum information theory.

Applicants will be expected to have, or be close to completing, a PhD in theoretical or mathematical physics or a closely related discipline, possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes and have the ability to manage their own academic research and associated activities.

We proudly hold a departmental Athena SWAN Silver Award and an institutional Race Equality Charter Bronze Award.

Please direct informal enquiries to the Recruitment Coordinator (email: recruitment@maths.ox.ac.uk), quoting vacancy reference 182823. Applicants will be selected for interview purely based on their ability to satisfy the selection criteria as outlined in full in the job description.

You will be asked to submit a curriculum vitae including a full list of publications, and a statement of research interests. Three letters of reference should be submitted DIRECTLY by referees to references@maths.ox.ac.uk ahead of the closing date quoting the vacancy number 182823.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. To apply for this vacancy and for further information, including a job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below. Only applications received before 12.00 noon UK time on Friday, 28 November 2025 can be considered.

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics employer: Institute of Mathematics and its Applications

The University of Oxford offers an exceptional environment for research and academic growth, particularly within the Mathematical Institute's Mathematical Physics Group. With a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, as evidenced by our Athena SWAN Silver Award, we provide a collaborative work culture that encourages independent thought and innovative research. Located in the historic city of Oxford, employees benefit from access to world-class resources and a vibrant academic community, making it an ideal place for aspiring researchers to thrive.
Institute of Mathematics and its Applications

Contact Detail:

Institute of Mathematics and its Applications Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of mathematical physics, attend conferences, and engage with researchers online. You never know who might have a lead on a position or can put in a good word for you.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your research and being ready to discuss it in detail. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to build your confidence.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your passion for the subject! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for mathematical physics shine through. Share your ideas and how they align with their research goals.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the application process closely.

We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics

Independent Research
Collaborative Research
Generalised Symmetries
Quantum Field Theory
Condensed Matter Physics
Quantum Information Theory
PhD in Theoretical Physics
PhD in Mathematical Physics
Specialist Knowledge in Physics
Academic Research Management
Publication Writing
Research Interests Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in theoretical or mathematical physics. We want to see how your background aligns with the research areas mentioned in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant publications and projects!

Craft a Compelling Research Statement: Your statement of research interests should reflect your passion and expertise. We’re looking for clarity and depth, so outline your past work and future research plans, especially in generalized symmetries and related fields. Make it engaging and insightful!

Get Strong References: Three letters of reference are crucial, so choose referees who know your work well and can speak to your abilities in research. It’s best if they can directly relate their insights to the selection criteria we’ve outlined. Give them a heads-up about the deadline too!

Apply Online: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website before the deadline! We want to make this process as smooth as possible for you, so follow the link provided in the job description to ensure your application is considered.

How to prepare for a job interview at Institute of Mathematics and its Applications

✨Know Your Research Inside Out

Make sure you can discuss your research interests and past work in detail. Be prepared to explain how your expertise aligns with the group's focus on generalized symmetries and theoretical physics. This shows that you're not just a good fit academically, but also genuinely interested in their work.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect questions that dive deep into quantum field theory, condensed matter physics, or quantum information theory. Brush up on key concepts and be ready to solve problems on the spot. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to think critically under pressure.

✨Show Collaborative Spirit

Since the role involves both independent and collaborative research, be ready to discuss your experience working in teams. Share examples of successful collaborations and how you contributed to group projects. This will highlight your ability to work well with others in a research environment.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared about the group's current projects or future directions. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your proactive approach to understanding how you can contribute to their research goals.

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematical Physics
Institute of Mathematics and its Applications
Location: Oxford

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