Postdoctoral Research Associate in theoretical atomic and molecular physics

TopSciNet; North East; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in the UK is seeking two Postdoctoral Research Associates to work on theoretical atomic and molecular physics focusing on ultracold molecules. The candidates should have a PhD in related fields and expertise in quantum-mechanical methods. Responsibilities include developing methods, publishing research, and mentoring students. The position offers competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and support for relocation if applicable.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Support for relocation and visa costs

Qualifications

• Strong track record in high-quality research and publications.
• Experience presenting research at conferences.
• Developing research proposals and supervising students.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply quantum-mechanical scattering and bound-state methods to ultracold atomic/molecular systems.
• Present research outputs to academic and non-academic audiences.
• Publish papers in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.

Skills

Expertise in quantum-mechanical methods for molecular systems

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Excellent scientific programming skills (preferably FORTRAN)

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Education

PhD (or near submission) in atomic/molecular physics or theoretical chemical physics

First degree in Chemistry or Physics

Tools

FORTRAN

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate in theoretical atomic and molecular physics

Physics

Description

Type: Full-Time, Fixed Term (24 months)
Salary: £38,784 – £46,049 per year
Posted: 11/26/2025
Department: Chemistry (links with Physics)
Contracted Hours: 35/week
Closing Date: 05-Jan-2026, 5:29 AM

Position Overview

Durham University invites applications for two Postdoctoral Research Associates to work with Prof. Jeremy M. Hutson on theoretical atomic and molecular physics The research focuses on ultracold molecules and quantum mechanics related to:

• Yb clock states forming lattices of CsYb molecules
• Quantum many-body physics with ultracold polar molecules
• Controlling collisions between laser-cooled molecules and atoms

The work is associated with EPSRC-funded projects and collaborations with experimental groups at Durham, Imperial College London, and other international partners.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply quantum-mechanical scattering and bound-state methods to ultracold atomic/molecular systems
• Present research outputs to academic and non-academic audiences
• Publish papers in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences
• Contribute to research proposals and project planning
• Collaborate within the research group and mentor students as appropriate

Essential Qualifications & Skills

>First degree in Chemistry or Physics
• PhD (or near submission) in atomic/molecular physics or theoretical chemical physics
• Strong track record in high-quality research and publications
• Expertise in quantum-mechanical methods for molecular systems
• Excellent scientific programming skills (preferably FORTRAN)
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience presenting research at conferences
• Developing research proposals
• Supervising students or mentoring research projects

Working at Durham University

• 30 days annual leave + 8 public holidays + 4 customary days
• Professional development opportunities and health/wellbeing support
• Support for relocation and visa costs if applicable

Application Materials

• CV and cover letter
• Full publication list
• Example of a personally written computer program (200–500 lines, preferably FORTRAN, PDF)