Postdoctoral Research Associate
Funding source: Proposed salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience (typically $60,000+)
Position Summary
The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rice University seeks to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of Quantum Foundations & Simulation, associated with the Q‑Ontic Initiative—an interdisciplinary project at the interface of quantum foundations, computational physics, and physics education.
The position focuses on the development of interactive, web‑based simulations that explore alternative representational and interpretive frameworks in quantum mechanics. Research areas include conceptual analysis, visualization, and comparative study of empirically equivalent quantum models. A prototype model can be explored at qsf‑v1.
The ideal candidate will be:
- Skilled in computational modeling and numerical simulation of quantum systems
- Skilled in scientific visualization and interactive simulation design
- Knowledgeable about quantum mechanics, including interpretive and foundational issues
- Interested in interdisciplinary work spanning physics, philosophy, and pedagogy
- Able to contribute to a modular simulation framework for research and advanced instruction
Additional desirable attributes include familiarity with curriculum development, conceptual modeling, and communication of complex ideas to diverse audiences.
Essential Functions
- Conducts original research on quantum foundations, simulation, and visualization
- Develops and extends computational and visualization tools for quantum systems (e.g., double‑slit, tunneling, entanglement, measurement)
- Assists with proposal development to obtain research funding
- Participates in interdisciplinary seminars and scholarly community activities
- Mentors or trains junior research team members as appropriate
- Publishes and presents research findings
- Performs all other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications and Skills
- PhD in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field (completed by start date)
- Strong background in quantum mechanics
- Experience with computational modeling, numerical simulation, or scientific visualization
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Organization and time‑management skills
- Ability to write scholarly papers for publication
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Preferred Qualifications (optional)
- Familiarity with quantum foundations
- Experience with curriculum development or physics education research
- Experience with web‑based or interactive simulation frameworks
Appointment Details
- Expected start date: Flexible (2026)
- Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience, plus full benefits
- Location: Rice University, Houston, TX (partial remote work possible by mutual agreement)
Application Instructions
Applicants should submit:
- A curriculum vitae
- Three letters of recommendation
All materials should be sent to yepes@rice.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to present an in-person research seminar.
Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
