University of California, Santa Barbara, KITP

Position ID:
UCSB-KITP-PD_2027 [#32412, KITP PD]
Position Title: 
Postdoctoral Scholars
Position Type:
Postdoctoral
Position Location:
Santa Barbara, California 93106-4030, United States of America
Subject Area: 
Physics / Theoretical Physics
Appl Deadline:
none (posted 2026/08/04)
Position Description:
   

Position Description

The Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (KITP) at the University of California, Santa Barbara expects to appoint Postdoctoral Scholars in theoretical physics, beginning September 1, 2027. Postdoctoral Scholar appointments are intended to provide a full-time training program of advanced academic preparation and research training under the mentorship of a faculty member.

Applications are welcome from all areas of theoretical physics, broadly construed. These include, but are not limited to, astrophysics, soft and living matter, condensed matter physics, high energy physics, particle physics, quantum field theory, quantum gravity, quantum information and quantum optics.

Minimum requirements: Completion of Ph.D. degree by the start date.

Additional requirements: Outstanding research in theoretical physics appropriate to level of position and ability to identify and pursue research problems independently while working in KITP's uniquely collaborative setting.

This position requires working in-person at Kohn Hall with engaged participation in KITP scientific activities.

The initial appointment will be for two years, with the possibility of renewal for a third year, contingent on continued funding and a reasonable level of research performance.

A detailed list of future KITP programs is available at: https://www.kitp.ucsb.edu/programs

Applications for postdoctoral positions should be made electronically via the Academic Jobs Online website: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/32412

The application must consist of a curriculum vita, publication list, statement of research interests, and three letters of reference.

Apply by November 15, 2026 for primary consideration. Later applications will be considered only as long as openings exist.

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As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

“Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination as defined by the employer.

- UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy (https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000385/SVSH) - UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, students and third parties (https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination) - APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment (https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/apm/apm-035.pdf)

Additionally, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Job location: Goleta, California

Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
  • Cover letters (optional)
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Research statement
  • Publication list
  • Three to five reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site )

Further Info:
www.kitp.ucsb.edu
email address
 
Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics
Kohn Hall, UC Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA 93106-4030