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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team researching theoretical condensed matter physics and contribute to groundbreaking projects.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a world-leading institution in physics and astronomy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for travel, and a supportive research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in quantum physics while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. or nearing completion in physics or mathematics, with strong research skills.
- Other info: Inclusive culture promoting diversity and excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
School of Physics and Astronomy, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to September 2028
UK and International travel may be required for this role
Closing date: 15th February 2026
Background
To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within the field of theoretical condensed matter physics. Applications are open for a research fellow position in the research group led by Bruno Bertini at the University of Birmingham. The duration is two years with the possibility of extension. The group’s research is operating in the area of quantum statistical physics with specific focus on non-equilibrium quantum many-body dynamics. Specific topics of interest include dynamics in quantum circuits and quantum cellular automata, many-body quantum chaos, quantum integrability, (generalised) hydrodynamics, quantum information scrambling, entanglement measures, tensor-network theory. The ideal candidate has either analytical or computational skills (exact diagonalisation or tensor network techniques) and research experience in either many-body quantum physics, statistical mechanics, statistical field theory, quantum-information theory, or quantum computing.
The School of Physics and Astronomy is a world-leading physics department, excelling in both research and teaching. It hosts over 130 academic and research staff, around 50 technical and support staff, and over 130 graduate students. Our physics research was recently ranked top in the UK for 4-star-category research by the national Research Excellence Framework 2021 exercise. The 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Professor Mike Kosterlitz and Professor David Thouless jointly for their work into the discoveries of the properties of matter, work which started when they were at Birmingham together. The 2017 Prize was awarded for the detection of gravitational waves, in which Birmingham staff played a key role.
The School is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of an Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote equality and diversity, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all staff can achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from all qualified applicants, but applications from traditionally under-represented groups in Physics and Astronomy including, but not limited to, women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Groups, are particularly encouraged.
Role Summary
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
- Operate within area of specialism
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results
- Contribute to generating funding
- Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar
Main Duties
The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Analyse and interpret data
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration arising from research
- Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
- Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Promote equality and value diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.
Person Specification
- Ph.D. (or equivalent) in physics or mathematics or being near to completion
- Ability to creatively apply relevant research approaches, models, techniques and methods
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex information with clarity
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
- Ability to build relationships and collaborate with others, both internally and externally
- Strong record of research in theoretical condensed matter physics, quantum information, quantum computing, or a closely related field
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy.
Research Fellow - School of Physics and Astronomy - 106958 - Grade 7 employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - School of Physics and Astronomy - 106958 - Grade 7
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the University of Birmingham, especially in the School of Physics and Astronomy. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and maybe even a heads-up on the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the research group's work. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and projects. This shows us that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute from day one!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your research ideas or findings during the interview. Make sure we can communicate complex concepts clearly and confidently – it’s all about making a great impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the proper channels.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - School of Physics and Astronomy - 106958 - Grade 7
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Fellow position. Highlight your relevant experience in theoretical condensed matter physics and any specific skills that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our research focus. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through – we love seeing candidates who are excited about their work!
Showcase Your Research Skills: In your application, make sure to showcase your analytical or computational skills. Whether it's exact diagonalisation or tensor network techniques, we want to know how you've applied these in your previous research. This is your chance to impress us!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community at the University of Birmingham. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific areas of research mentioned in the job description, like quantum statistical physics and many-body quantum dynamics. Brush up on your analytical or computational skills, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the research group and its projects. This shows your genuine interest and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively. Ask about their current projects or future directions in research.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key, practice explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely. You might be asked to present your previous research, so prepare a brief overview that highlights your contributions and findings.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your ability to work with others, both within and outside the academic community. Share examples of past collaborations and how they led to successful outcomes, as teamwork is crucial in research environments.
