The Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (KITP) seeks applicants for one Moore Postdoctoral Scholar position in quantum materials theory. This postdoctoral program is part of the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation’s Emergent Phenomena in Quantum Systems initiative (EPiQS). The successful applicant will be an independent researcher appointed as postdoctoral fellow, starting September 1, 2022. Due to UC policies, the appointment is made for an initial two years, with the possibility of renewal for a third year, contingent on a reasonable level of research performance.

The KITP's purpose is to contribute to the progress of theoretical physics, especially in areas overlapping the traditional subfields, in ways that are not easily realized in existing institutions. The scientific work is carried out by approximately 70 members, including the director, deputy director, 5 permanent members, 24 researchers at the postdoctoral level, and 60 visiting senior members. KITP permanent members and postdoctoral fellows are active in all areas of theoretical physics, including condensed matter and materials physics. Most visiting members are participants in programs that last 2-4 months; there are at least ten programs per year. Interactions are also encouraged with other related efforts on campus, including UCSB Materials Research Lab, the Physics Department, and Microsoft’s Station Q research center.

Minimum requirements: Completion of Ph.D. degree by the start date; outstanding research in theoretical condensed matter physics appropriate to level of position. Desired requirements: Ability to identify and pursue research problems independently while working well in an interactive and dynamic setting. Applications for postdoctoral positions should be made electronically via the Academic Jobs Online website: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/19210

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

If you have any questions regarding scientific and/or programmatic issues or need assistance or accommodation in completing this application, please contact Professor Leon Balents (balents@spinsandelectrons.com). The deadline for applications and all materials is November 1. Later applications will be considered only as long as the position is still open.

The department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

About the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and EPiQS Initiative

The Moore Foundation believes in bold ideas that create enduring impact in the areas of science, environmental conservation and patient care. Visit Moore.org or follow @MooreFound. The foundation’s $185-million EPiQS initiative promotes discovery-driven research in the field of quantum materials (http://www.moore.org/programs/science/emergent-phenomena-in-quantum-systems). Through a variety of funding approaches, EPiQS aims to enable a community of leading experimentalists, materials synthesis experts and theorists to maximize their potential to explore, discover and understand emergent behavior of complex quantum matter.

The Moore Postdoctoral Scholars in Theory of Quantum Materials program is an integral part of EPiQS and supports theoretical physicists of outstanding promise at an early stage of their careers. The Moore Postdoctoral Scholars are provided with a significant independence in selection of their research directions within their departments and can acquire a breadth of expertise by working with multiple faculty members.

The Moore Foundation values diversity and encourage applications from individuals regardless of their age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, national origin, religion or disability.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/5000695/SARS-CoV-2_Covid-19.