"Research Assistant Professor Positions (up to 4) in Physics of Information and AI Lab"

The Physics of Information and AI Lab led by Achim Kempf at the University of Waterloo, with generous funding from the Dieter Schwarz Foundation, is seeking exceptional junior scientists for up to four non-tenure track Research Assistant Professor positions.

These positions are for a 3 + 2-year term. The intention is to provide a long-term runway for ambitious research and for applying for tenure-track positions. The start date for these positions is July 1, 2026, or as negotiated.

The lab’s research spans a wide spectrum, from foundational questions to applied technologies. Current topics include:

• Quantum information in quantum gravity
• Relativistic Quantum Information
• Computational complexity in adiabatic quantum computation
• AI to boost quantum technologies (e.g., machine learning for quantum error prevention/mitigation/correction)
• Quantum machine learning
• Quantum cloud technologies

The lab is based in the Department of Applied Mathematics at the University of Waterloo, with strong connections to the Department of Physics, the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC), and the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (PI). Successful applicants will benefit from a highly inspiring and supportive environment and be part of the rich research activity at IQC and PI. The positions offer academic freedom, the opportunity to teach if desired, funding for travel and equipment, and top local pay.

The successful candidate must have a PhD in Applied Mathematics, Theoretical Physics, or a related field. Evidence of an actively developing research program is required.

The salary range for this position is $90,000 - $95,000 CAD per year. In addition, the position includes a $14,000 CAD per year research grant. Negotiations beyond this salary range will be considered for exceptionally qualified candidates.

Applications must be submitted via https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/31551. Complete applications should include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae (including a link to Google Scholar), a research statement (max 2 pages), and three letters of recommendation. Review of applications will start on February 20, 2026, and applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.

If you have any questions regarding the position, please contact: Prof. Achim Kempf (akempf@uwaterloo.ca) or Riley Herriman (r2herrim@uwaterloo.ca).