The goal of this collaboration is to bring together theorists from diverse backgrounds to develop theoretically well-founded proposals of quantum gravity and explore their possible observational signatures. We believe that connecting formal advances in quantum gravity to the natural world we live in could result in a true breakthrough. We therefore seek a paradigm shift that brings theory and observation together, helping to close the chasm between quantum mechanics and gravity. We will tackle foundational issues, effective descriptions, and observational tests of those effective descriptions. We are committed to inclusive excellence and innovation and thus hope to develop a diverse and thriving collaborative community.

This Collaboration uniquely brings together diverse faculty at four Hub institutions:

Yanbei Chen (Caltech) Ben Freivogel (University of Amsterdam) Steve Giddings (University of California, Santa Barbara) Cynthia Keeler (Arizona State University) Maulik Parikh (Arizona State University) Erik Verlinde (University of Amsterdam) Kathryn Zurek (Caltech).

Our research interests span quantum gravity, particle theory, string theory, gravitational waves, and astrophysics. The collaboration will feature extended visits between the collaboration hubs, and yearly workshops of all collaboration members to discuss open research questions and progress. To learn more about the collaboration visit www.qurios.caltech.edu.

The ideal candidate will have technical skills to work in gravity and will be interested in exploring new questions related to possible observability of quantum effects in gravity, manifested in laboratory experiments such as interferometers, cosmological observation, or observation of astrophysical objects such as black holes e.g. via gravitational waves. The appointment requires completion of a PhD by time of appointment and is expected to start as early as September 2022. The appointment is fiscal year, full-time, with competitive compensation and significant research travel support. The initial appointment will be for two years with expected renewal for one additional year; in rare cases the appointment might be extended to a fourth year.

Postdocs appointed to ASU will be part of the Cosmology Initiative (https://cosmology.asu.edu/) as well as the Beyond Center (https://beyond.asu.edu/). Additionally, ASU is a member of APS-IDEA (https://physics.asu.edu/idea) and will be joining the APS Chapters program (https://www.aps.org/membership/chapters.cfm).

Application Process

We invite interested researchers to submit separate applications via AJO to each individual Collaboration Hub institution (Amsterdam, Arizona State, Caltech, Santa Barbara) by December 1, 2021 for full consideration. Links to all advertisements at hub institutions can be found at www.qurios.caltech.edu. A complete application includes (1) a cover letter, (2) CV, (3) publication list, (4) short statement of past and future research, (5) a statement addressing how your past and/or potential contributions to diversity and inclusion will advance ASU’s commitment to inclusive excellence, and (6) three letters of reference. Ideally the cover letter (maximum one page) will address the candidate’s creative problem solving ability, technical background, interest in exploring new directions, and collaborative skills. Hiring decisions will be coordinated by the Collaboration, though offers will be extended from individual institutions. Fellows may also specify their preferences of institutions in the cover letter, and some Fellows will have the opportunity to be jointly appointed at more than one institution over the period of the Fellowship.

Please address any science questions to Dr. Cynthia Keeler or Dr. Maulik Parikh, or other collaboration members, and any administrative questions to Jeanette Perez, Jeanette.R.Perez@asu.edu.

The College values our cultural and intellectual diversity, and continually strives to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment. We are especially interested in applicants who can strengthen the diversity of the academic community.

A background check is required for employment.

Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. https://www.asu.edu/aad/manuals/acd/acd401.hml https://www.asu.edu/titleIX/

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For full consideration, apply by December 1, 2021.