At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct independent and collaborative research in theoretical physics and mathematical physics.
- Company: Join the prestigious Mathematical Institute at the University of Oxford.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for academic growth.
- Other info: Fixed-term position with a focus on generalized symmetries in various physics subfields.
- Why this job: Explore groundbreaking theories and contribute to innovative research in a dynamic field.
- Qualifications: PhD in theoretical or mathematical physics or related discipline required.
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, 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 ahead of the closing date quoting the vacancy number 182823.
Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. 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
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
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 a must, and they should come directly from your referees. Choose people who know your work well and can speak to your abilities in research and collaboration. A strong endorsement can really make a difference!
Apply Online: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website before the deadline! We want to make the process as smooth as possible for you, so follow the link provided in the job description and ensure everything is submitted on time.
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 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 your knowledge of 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 readiness for independent research.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves both independent and collaborative research, be ready to share examples of past teamwork. Discuss how you’ve contributed to group projects or collaborated with others in your field. This highlights your ability to work well within a team, which is crucial for success in this position.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research group’s current projects or future directions. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your critical thinking skills. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and demonstrate that you’re serious about contributing to their work.