"Post-doctoral Research Associate in Applied Mathematics (Fixed Term)"

A post-doctoral Research Associate position is available in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics to work in the research group of Professor Hamza Fawzi at the intersection of convex optimization and quantum information.

Many problems in quantum information and quantum many-body theory can be expressed in terms of a mathematical optimization problem. The goal of the project is to investigate approximation methods based on convex relaxations such as semidefinite programming and sums of squares, and to propose new ones with improved guarantees. The candidate will be expected to carry out theoretical analyses of the algorithms under study. The ability to implement proof-of-concept algorithms using numerical software is also essential.

The role holder will be expected to plan and manage their own research and administration, with guidance if required. You must be able to communicate material of a technical nature and be able to build internal and external contacts. You may be asked to assist in the supervision of student projects, the development of student research skills, provide instruction or plan/deliver seminars relating to the research area.

Applicants should have (or be close to completing) a PhD with a strong academic track record in the area of optimization and/or quantum information. Excellent presentation and communication skills are essential.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Start date: October 2026

Interviews will be held soon after the closing date.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please indicate the contact details of two academic referees on the online application form and upload a full curriculum vitae and a description of your recent research (not to exceed three pages). Please ensure that at least one of your referees is contactable at any time during the selection process and is made aware that they will be contacted by the Mathematics HR Administrator to request that they upload a reference for you to our Web Recruitment System, and please encourage them to do so promptly.

For more details on the position, please contact Professor Hamza Fawzi (hf323@cam.ac.uk)

If you have any queries about the application process, please email: LE47815@maths.cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference LE47815 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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Key information

Department/location

Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics

Salary

£37,694-£46,049

Reference

LE47815

Category

Research

Date published

19 November 2025

Closing date

31 December 2025