Northeastern University, Physics
Position ID:
Northeastern University-Physics-POSTDOC [#31038]
Position Title:
Simons Collaboration Postdoc
Position Type:
Postdoctoral
Position Location:
Boston, Massachusetts 02125, United States of America
Subject Areas:
Physics / Elementary Particle Theory, Field Theory, Hard Condensed Matter Theory, hep-th, HEP-Theory (hep-th), High Energy Theory, Machine Learning, Particle Theory, Physics of Learning, Quantum Field Theory, Statistical physics, String Theory, Theoretical Particle Physics, Theoretical Physics, Theoretical Physics, HEP-Phenomenology (hep-ph), Astrophysics (astro-ph), GR-Cosmology (gr-qc)
Appl Deadline:
2025/12/15 11:59PM
(posted 2025/10/30, listed until 2026/04/30)
Position Description:
Position Description
The Theoretical High Energy Physics group at Northeastern University in Boston has a Fall 2026 opening for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work with the recently established Simons Collaboration on the Physics of Learning (physicsoflearning.org). The Simons Collaboration is harnessing the fundamental sciences to break AI out of its black box using techniques from mathematics and theoretical physics. The postdoctoral researcher will be under the supervision of Prof. Jim Halverson. The successful candidate is expected to contribute to the scientific mission of the collaboration, bringing their technical expertise to bear on problems in AI. Proposals for new scientific directions are welcomed, and the researcher will have an opportunity to collaborate with anyone in the Collaboration. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to interact and collaborate with the NSF AI Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Fundamental Interactions (IAIFI), where Halverson is also a PI. If interested, they will be able to apply for Junior Investigator status at IAIFI. Questions about the position should be directed to Jim Halverson (jhh@neu.edu). QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates should have a Ph.D. in Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science. A strong track record of research accomplishments in technical fields, ideally involving combinations of theoretical physics, mathematics, and machine learning. While machine experience is not a strict requirement for the job, we anticipate that the strongest candidates will have clear research ideas relevant for the collaboration, as well as excellent ML programming and mathematical skills. A background in theoretical high energy physics is not a requirement. NORTHEASTERN: Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer. Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement
- Three reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site
)
And anything else requested in the position description.
Further Info: