We invite applications of outstanding candidates for a number of postdoctoral positions, starting in or around the fall 2010, at the Max Planck Institute (Albert Einstein Institute) for Gravitational Physics, Potsdam, Germany, on Quantum Gravity, including loop quantum gravity and spin foam models, group field theories, matrix models, discrete quantum gravity, non-commutative geometry.
The positions will be offered in one of the two research groups on Quantum Gravity of the AEI, either in the Max Planck Research Group headed by Dr. Bianca Dittrich (http://www.aei.mpg.de/english/research/teams/canonicalCovariantDynamics/), or in the Independent Research Group headed by Dr. Daniele Oriti (http://www.aei.mpg.de/english/research/teams/microscopicQuantumStructure/), and funded by a Sofja Kowalevskaja Award of the Humboldt Foundation.
These two groups are expected to be formed by approximately twenty members in total, between postdocs, PhD students and visiting scientists, and to work in close collaboration. Moreover, close collaboration and research exchanges are expected with the ”Quantum gravity and unified theories” division of the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics, that counts Prof. Nicolai, Prof. Staudacher and Prof. Theisen as permanent members, as well as a considerable number postdocs and PhD students (see http://www.aei.mpg.de/english/research/teams/quantumGravity/); interaction with the divisions “Astrophysical Relativity”, “Geometric Analysis and Gravitation” and other research groups at the AEI, as well as with the universities in Berlin and Potsdam, is also possible. Overall, we can offer a vibrant, stimulating and top quality research enviroment for young researchers interested in Quantum Gravity.
The postdoctoral appointments will be for two years, with a possible extension (depending on performance and availability of funds) for a third year. We offer competitive salary, depending on experience, and additional travel funds.
Applicants are expected to hold, or to anticipate receiving very soon, a PhD in theoretical or mathematical physics, and to have already shown outstanding research abilities and potential. Successful applicants will likely have a strong research background and research interests in at least one of the following areas: loop quantum gravity, spin foam models, group field theory, simplicial gravity, matrix models, non-commutative geometry, fundamental cosmology and cosmological implications of quantum gravity models, emergent gravity in condensed matter systems, quantum gravity phenomenology. Interest in combining multiple methods and ideas from different approaches to quantum gravity, or to apply techniques from quantum (statistical) field theory and/or condensed matter theory in quantum gravity is desirable.
The review of application will start December 1st 2009, but applications will be considered until all positions are filled.
To apply, please visit the webpage:
https://lotus1.aei.mpg.de/job-form.nsf/applyQG.xsp
and follow the application procedure online.
Please also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be written on your behalf. Referees should upload their letters to
https://lotus1.aei.mpg.de/job-form.nsf/refereeQG.xsp,
e-mail them to qgpostdocs_AT_aei.mpg.de or mail to
Max-Planck-Institut für Gravitationsphysik
(Albert-Einstein-Institut)
Frau Christine Gottschalkson
Am Mühlenberg 1
D-14476 Golm
Germany
The Albert Einstein Institute is an equal opportunity employer, and applications from women and minority scholars are strongly encouraged.