Postdoctoral Associate - Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rice University seeks to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of Quantum Foundations & Simulation, associated with the Q Ontic Initiative—an interdisciplinary project at the interface of quantum foundations, computational physics, and physics education.

The position focuses on the development of interactive, web based simulations that explore alternative representational and interpretive frameworks in quantum mechanics. Research areas include conceptual analysis, visualization, and comparative study of empirically equivalent quantum models. A prototype model can be explored at qsf-v1.

The ideal candidate will be:

Skilled in computational modeling and numerical simulation of quantum systems

Skilled in scientific visualization and interactive simulation design

Knowledgeable about quantum mechanics, including interpretive and foundational issues

Interested in interdisciplinary work spanning physics, philosophy, and pedagogy

Able to contribute to a modular simulation framework for research and advanced instruction

Additional desirable attributes include familiarity with curriculum development, conceptual modeling, and communication of complex ideas to diverse audiences.

Essential Functions

Conducts original research on quantum foundations, simulation, and visualization

Develops and extends computational and visualization tools for quantum systems (e.g., double slit, tunneling, entanglement, measurement)

Assists with proposal development to obtain research funding

Participates in interdisciplinary seminars and scholarly community activities

Mentors or trains junior research team members as appropriate

Publishes and presents research findings

Performs all other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

PhD in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field (completed by start date)

Skills

Strong background in quantum mechanics

Experience with computational modeling, numerical simulation, or scientific visualization

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Organization and time management skills

Ability to write scholarly papers for publication

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with quantum foundations

Experience with curriculum development or physics education research

Experience with web-based or interactive simulation frameworks

Workplace Requirements:

This position is primarily on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person in Houston, Texas. Partial remote work is possible by mutual agreement. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

This position is funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

Additional Appointment Details

Expected start date: Flexible (2026)

Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience, plus full benefits

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit:

A curriculum vitae

Three letters of recommendation

All materials should be sent to [email protected]. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to present an in-person research seminar.

Please use the following link to apply for the position. https://emdz.fa.us2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_2001/job/5544/?utm_medium=jobshare&utm_source=External+Job+Share

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits

If you have any additional questions, please email us at [email protected]. Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.
Rice University is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all genders and members of historically underrepresented groups who exemplify diverse cultural experiences.