"3-year postdoctoral researcher position in mathematical physics and probability"

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a 3-year postdoctoral researcher position in mathematical physics and probability. Successful candidate will work with Prof. Antti Kupiainen on problems of interest to the Simons Collaboration on Probabilistic Paths to Quantum Field Theory https://probabilistic-qft.org/. We welcome applications of candidates from a wide range of backgrounds including conformal field theory, probabilistic approaches to quantum field theory, rigorous statistical mechanics and rigorous approaches to the renormalization group.

The scientific environment at Helsinki provides superb conditions for research. The department includes six professors related to mathematical physics and has close contacts with the nearby Aalto University mathematical physics groups. The candidate will be provided funds to participate in the scientific activities of the Simons Collaboration which combines 15 leading researchers in probabilistic quantum field theory from Europe, USA and China.

There is flexibility in the starting date. Selected candidates can start as soon as possible but at the latest in fall 2026.

Qualifications

The appointee shall have a PhD in a relevant field and research experience that supports the goals of the Simons Collaboration on Probabilistic Paths to Quantum Field Theory. E.g. scientific background in conformal field theory, probabilistic approaches to quantum field theory, rigorous statistical mechanics and rigorous approaches to the renormalization group is considered advantageous for applicants.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required. Good co-operation and interaction skills are considered to be an advantage for the applicant.

Working environment, salary, and benefits

The University of Helsinki offers a first-class research and teaching environment as well as a vibrant international working community (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki). A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our university.

The salary of the successful candidate will be based on level 5 of the demands level chart for teaching and research personnel in the salary system of Finnish universities. For a postdoctoral researcher, the starting salary is typically 3900-4100 euros/month, depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience.

The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development. The University provides support for internationally recruited employees with their transition to work and live in Finland. For more on the University of Helsinki as an employer, please see https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers.

How to apply

The University of Helsinki is committed to promoting equality and preventing discrimination in all its operations. We welcome applicants from a variety of gender identities, linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

The application should include the following documents as a single PDF file (in English):

• A cover letter describing your suitability for the position and motivation to apply for it (max. 2 pages)
• A curriculum vitae including a full list of publications
• A research statement (max. 3 pages).

Include also in your cv contact information of three people, who are willing to provide a reference letter by a separate request.

Please submit your application through the University of Helsinki’s recruitment system. Applicants, who are employees of the University of Helsinki, are requested to leave their application by using the Employee Login.

The deadline for submitting the application is December 15th, 2025 (at 23:59 UTC + 2).

Additional information

For more information on the position and operational environment, please contact Professor Antti Kupiainen (antti.kupiainen@helsinki.fi).

If you need support with the recruitment system, please contact recruitment@helsinki.fi.