Position Description

The Quantum Fields and Strings Group at Westlake University, Hangzhou, China, led by Dr. Qu Cao, is seeking highly motivated postdoctoral researchers to join us. Our group conducts research in Quantum Field Theory and String Theory, with a primary emphasis on understanding the analytical properties and mathematical structures of Scattering Amplitudes. We aim to uncover the deep mathematical structures governing fundamental interactions, develop new analytic and geometric frameworks, and apply these insights to problems in field theory, gravity, and string theory.

Our research interests include, but are not limited to: -Scattering Amplitudes in Gauge Theory and Gravity. - Hidden Properties and Relations of Scattering Amplitudes. - Color-Kinematics Duality and Double Copy. - String Amplitudes and Worldsheet Formula.-Geometry Behind Scattering Amplitudes. - Observables in Curved Spacetime

We maintain active collaborations with other leading groups within Westlake University and all over China and have a strong network of international partners. The detailed information about our group can be found on our website: https://quantumq1.github.io.

Job Description Position: Postdoctoral Fellow (2+1 years) (The positions are initially for 2 years, renewable for an additional year contingent on availability of funding and the postdocs' research performance).

Start date: Flexible, after Sept 1st, 2026.

Requirements:

1. Hold or expect to hold a Ph.D. degree in Theoretical Physics or a related field.

2. A research background in one or more of the following core areas: quantum field theory, string theory, scattering amplitudes, mathematical physics.

3. Aged under 35.

Compensation and Benefits:

1. The research team offers a competitive and negotiable compensation package (300,000~500,000 RMB/42K~70K USD) commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience. Applications for relevant projects and programs will be encouraged and supported.

2. The university assists with enrolling children in child care and school.

3. The university boasts comprehensive postdoctoral training, with programs including the Westlake University Outstanding Postdoctoral Fellows and Westlake Postdoctoral Fellowship for Women.

Funding: 

1. Postdocs receive a living allowance and research funding from the Hangzhou municipal government. 

2. Recipients of funding from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation or the Zhejiang Province Selected Funding for Postdoctoral Research Projects are entitled to supplementary funding of the same amount from the Hangzhou municipal government. 

3. Postdocs who work full-time in Hangzhou after completing their postdoctoral research qualify for an allowance of 400,000 RMB from the Hangzhou municipal government.

4. Eligible new university graduates holding a doctoral degree or equivalent who work full time in Hangzhou (including those who studied abroad and returned to China within 5 years of graduation as well as foreign talent) can apply to the Hangzhou municipal government for a living allowance of 100,000 RMB. 

5. Postdocs recognized as high-level talent in Hangzhou enjoy corresponding preferential policies.

Application Materials Required: - Curriculum vitae - Research Statement -Publication List- At least 2 letters of reference

For primary consideration, please submit all materials by Jan 15, 2026. Applications arriving later than this will be considered until the positions are filled.

Contact: caoqu@westlake.edu.cn