Postdoctoral Scholar Position in Computational Condensed Matter Physics and Nanoscience

Area: Computational Condensed Matter Physics and Nanoscience

Duration: 1 year with possibility of renewal for another year

Start date: Flexible

Salary:  $60,000 CAD per annum, plus University of Calgary Plan C health benefits

The Department of Physics and Astronomy in the Faculty of Science at the University of Calgary is accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in computational condensed matter physics and nanoscience to investigate nanoscale systems for chemical sensing.

Job Description:

The postdoctoral scholar will be part of the Complex Nano Materials Group (CNMG), led by Primary Investigator Dr. Claudia G. Rocha, a research and development team that uses a broad toolkit of computational methods and high-performance computing (HPC) to investigate non-conventional nanomaterials engineered for specific technological applications: (i) neuromorphic (brain-like) systems, (ii) transparent conducting films, and (iii) molecular quantum sensors. The work will focus on building descriptive and predictive models to infer the physical responses of nanomaterials-based sensors at realistic environmental conditions. Emphasis is on implementing first principles and/or machine-learning (ML) methods, coupled with static and/or nonequilibrium transport theories, for accurate prediction and detection of chemical impurities interacting with low-dimensional materials.

The successful applicant will be based at the University of Calgary and will join an interdisciplinary and collaborative team with supporting research funding from NSERC and Alberta Innovates. The initial appointment is for one year and may be renewable for a second year, contingent on satisfactory performance and availability of funding.

Qualifications:

The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. in Science or Engineering from a relevant discipline, such as physics, (quantum) chemistry, or physics engineering, and will have demonstrated exceptional strength in relevant computational approaches and research productivity in the context of computational condensed matter physics (e.g., strong publication record on topics associated with the job description). Clear alignment with the job description and interest in innovation and interdisciplinary work should be expressed in the cover letter. Other required qualifications include:

• Experience in using Density Functional Theory (DFT) techniques;
• Experience in using many-body electronic approaches (beyond-DFT) to build nanomaterials models;
• Knowledge of using first principles and/or machine learning methods coupled with nonequilibrium quantum transport theories;
• Knowledge of Monte Carlo Methods and description of disordered systems;
• Proficiency in HPC;
• Experience in scripting in Python, MATLAB, C++, and/or Fortran programming language;
• Excellent communication, writing, and organization skills (including file/data management);
• Ability to work independently, have excellent interpersonal and effective time management skills;
• Ability to work within a collaborative setting with peers and co-supervise students;
• Ability to set clear priorities while managing multiple timelines and objectives.

Application details:

1. A brief cover letter outlining interest in this project, detailing qualifications and/or related experience.
2. Curriculum Vitae.
3. Name and contact information of three references.
4. Brief research statement (up to two pages).

Applicants should submit the requested materials above through the UCalgary portal using the "Apply Now" button below.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the application deadline of 11:59 PM MST, August 15, 2025, or until the position is filled. Applicants from equity-seeking groups are encouraged to apply.

Only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted further. In accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada, although others are encouraged to apply.

Please review the Postdoc Eligibility Guidelines for more information prior to applying for this position.

The terms and conditions of employment are covered under the UCalgary and PDAC Collective Agreement. To find out more about postdoctoral scholar program at the University of Calgary visit our Postdocs website.

To learn more about postdoctoral scholar opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Postdoc Careers website.