San Diego State University, SDSU Physics – Dogan Lab

Position ID:

San Diego State University-SDSU Physics – Dogan Lab-POSTDOC26 [#31406]

Position Title:

Postdoctoral Researcher

Position Type:

Postdoctoral

Position Location:

San Diego, California 92182, United States of America

Subject Areas:

Materials Physics
Condensed Matter Physics / Electronic Structure
Computational Science and Engineering / Modeling and Simulation

Appl Deadline:

2026/01/15 11:59PM help popup

(posted 2025/12/15)

Position Description:

The Physics Department at San Diego State University (SDSU) is seeking outstanding candidates for a postdoctoral researcher to join the computational materials research group of Prof. Mehmet Dogan to start as soon as possible. The successful candidate will conduct research at the intersection of machine learning, materials theory, and high-pressure physics, with emphasis on superconducting hydrides and related quantum materials. The group develops computational and data-driven methods to discover new compounds, predict stability, and understand materials properties under extreme conditions. The group is also affiliated with the SDSU Computational Science Research Center, which provides a vibrant and collegial scientific environment, as well as cutting-edge computational resources and support.

The position involves:

Machine learning models for crystal structure and property prediction.
High-throughput workflows for hydrides and metastable phases.
Dataset development and benchmarking strategies for small-data environments.
Opportunities for collaboration with experimental and theoretical groups.

Qualifications required:

Ph.D. in physics, materials science, chemistry, engineering, or related field.
Experience in electronic structure theory, specifically, density functional theory.
Strong scientific computing skills.

Qualifications preferred:

Experience with ML for materials (GNNs, generative models).
Background in high-pressure materials, hydrides, or superconductivity.
Familiarity with structure prediction tools (e.g., genetic algorithms).
Note: Exceptional candidates will be considered for other potential projects in computational materials.

What we offer:

Collaborative, research-focused environment
Opportunities to mentor students and build collaborations
Support for conference travel and career development

The initial appointment for this position will be for 12 months. Additional 12-month extension will be available based on performance. A competitive salary along with a benefits package will be offered.

Please apply at Academic Jobs Online. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis, but for best consideration, apply by 01/15/2026. If you have any questions, please contact Mehmet Dogan (mdogan@sdsu.edu).

SDSU is the oldest institution of higher education in the San Diego region, with a campus in San Diego serving 36,000 undergraduate and graduate students. SDSU is included in the Carnegie Foundation’s R1 category.

SDSU is a Title IX, equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against persons on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy, medical condition, or covered veteran status.

Application Materials Required:

Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:

Cover letter
Curriculum Vitae
Two references (actual letters acceptable but not required, just names and email addresses )

And anything else requested in the position description.

Further Info:

https://physics.sdsu.edu/people/mehmet-dogan/

Attn: Physics
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182