University Lecturer, Gauge/Gravity Duality

The University of Helsinki is among the leading multidisciplinary research universities in the world. In addition to its 11 faculties, the University includes several independent institutes, some of which are jointly   operated   with   other   universities.   Some   35,000   students   are   currently   pursuing   an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree at the University of Helsinki.  

Measured in number of students and teachers, the Faculty of Science at the University of Helsinki is the largest science faculty in Finland. There are some 6,000 students taking a basic degree. Out of them, some 1,000 are postgraduates. There are some 500 international students, and over 200 researchers and teachers from abroad. 

The Department of Physics is a large and multidisciplinary department that offers the most varied university programme in the physical sciences in Finland. In 2023, the department employs about 200 people, of which 2 are academy professors, 25 are professors and 5 are assistant/associate professors.

The Department of Physics in the Faculty of Science at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a

UNIVERSITY LECTURER IN GAUGE/GRAVITY DUALITY 

Starting from 1st March 2024 (or as agreed). The position will be based in the Division of Particle physics and Astrophysics of the Department of Physics.

The university lecturer will strengthen the Faculty’s teaching and research portfolio in the intersection of quantum field theory and string theory, with particular emphasis on applications of the gauge/gravity duality to strong-interaction systems at finite temperature and density as well as quantum information problems. The position is aimed to complement existing theoretical research on topics such as the description of dense QCD matter in neutron stars, early-Universe phase transitions and gravitational-wave production therein, and quantum computing.

The teaching duties of the selected university lecturer will focus on the Bachelor Programme in Physical Sciences, Master’s Programme in Particle physics and Astrophysics as well as Master’s Programme in Theoretical and Computational Methods. These duties will be complemented by teaching, supervision, and research duties in applied gauge/gravity duality within the Doctoral Programme in Particle Physics and Universe Sciences, and the candidate is expected to possess a strong track record in the supervision of both MSc and PhD students.

To be successful in the position, the candidate must have a background and/or research experience in theoretical physics, experience in teaching and supervision of students, extensive training in university pedagogy, and a demonstrated ability to acquire external research funding. When assessing the qualifications of each candidate, attention will be paid to scientific publications and other research results, teaching experience, experience in supervising students and younger scientists, as well as the ability and experience in working in a strongly   collaborative environment consisting of theoretical, computational, and experimental researchers. Further attention will be paid to the candidates’ mobility and activities within the research community. We anticipate the candidates to describe how their research is naturally linked to the relevant research programs of the Department.

An appointee to the position of university lecturer shall hold an applicable doctoral degree and be  able to provide high-quality teaching based on research and to supervise theses and dissertations.  When assessing the qualifications of the applicants, attention shall be paid to scientific publications and other research results of scientific value, teaching experience and pedagogical training, the  ability to produce learning materials, other teaching merits and, if necessary, a teaching  demonstration. 

The salary is based on the salary system of Finnish universities. The salary range is from 4300-5300 euros per month. 

The UH Faculty of Science is dedicated to promoting diversity and wellbeing in science and  education. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We support work-life  balance and gender equality in science, with an active wellbeing group. Our staff receive  comprehensive health services, and they are covered by University of Helsinki's travel and  occupational accident insurance. Finland is family-friendly, offering generous parental leaves,  affordable daycare, and excellent education and healthcare. Learn more at https://welcome.helsinki.

Applications must have the following attachments (in English): 

Please submit your application using the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the link Apply now. Applicants who are employees of the University of Helsinki are requested to leave their application via SAP Fiori.

The deadline for applications 31 January 2024.

For further information please contact:

About the position:

Head of Department, Professor Simo Huotari, simo.huotari(at)helsinki.fi

About the recruitment process or the recruitment system:

HR Specialist Laura Karppinen, laura.karppinen(at)helsinki.fi