Applications are invited for two Research Associate (RA) positions in theoretical condensed matter physics, focusing on modelling emergent quantum phenomena in twisted van der Waals (vdW) interfaces. Both positions are based in the Department of Physics and Astronomy of the University of Manchester.
This research initiative aims to combine the power of first-principles modelling with advanced theoretical frameworks to establish new guiding principles for studying exotic quantum phases emerging at the interface of strongly correlated vdW heterostructures subject to mechanical distortions and external fields.
Both positions are available immediately for a period of up to 36 months. You should have, or be about to obtain, a PhD degree in physics, with a background in theoretical condensed matter physics (different backgrounds will also be given consideration, as long as there is a clear interest in the field of research). An excellent track record of publications, in low-dimensional materials and strongly correlated electronics systems, and/or field-theoretical methods with application to many-body systems and strong interactions, is required. You should also be capable of maintaining collaborations with experimental groups.
One RA should have a strong background in first-principles modelling of materials within density functional theory and beyond (GW, DMFT, etc.) and high-level programming skills. Working in collaboration with Dr Mohammad Saeed Bahramy, you will be responsible for performing high-throughput ab-initio calculations and deriving effective tight-binding models for a wide variety of vdW heterostructures. The primary focus will be on constructing realistic models for commensurate and twisted vdW interfaces and exploring their response to external fields and mechanical distortion.
The other RA should have strong expertise in theoretical condensed matter physics, in particular on field-theoretical methods (such as Feynman diagrams, Keldysh kinetic equation, replica method, etc.) possibly applied to many-body and/or strongly-interacting systems. Together with Dr Alessandro Principi, you will contribute to the development of theories describing emergent quantum phases in twisted vdW heterostructures of strongly-correlated materials, using input from ab-initio calculation performed by the other RA.
RAs are expected to collaborate with each other and other members of Dr Principi and Dr Bahramy’s groups, in particular helping them with the supervision of PhD students. They will also contribute to writing papers and grant applications, and present results at conferences.
What you will get in return:
The Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Access through contributing to the University’s social responsibility agenda, demonstrating a commitment to its policies, activities and delivery of initiatives including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) in higher education. The Department has held JUNO Champion status since 2016 for its commitment to achieving gender equality which positively promotes inclusivity for all.
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk. Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Mohammad Saeed Bahramy (RA position 1) and Alessandro Principi (RA position 2)
Email: m.saeed.bahramy@manchester.ac.uk Alessandro.principi@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
