Postdoctoral Associate - Physics and Astronomy

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

• PhD in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field (completed by start date)

Skills

• 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 

• Familiarity with quantum foundations

• Experience with curriculum development or physics education research

• Experience with web-based or interactive simulation frameworks

Workplace Requirements:

This position is primarily on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person in Houston, Texas. Partial remote work is possible by mutual agreement. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

This position is funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

Additional Appointment Details

• Expected start date: Flexible (2026)

• Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience, plus full benefits

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.

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Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified ap