Research Fellow in Physics

Stockholm University

About Nordita

Nordita is a Nordic research center in theoretical physics located at Albano in Stockholm, jointly hosted by KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University, with close collaborations across the Nordic region and internationally. Founded in 1957, Nordita continues to play a central role in advancing theoretical physics and in educating the next generation of scientific leaders. Currently, we have a broad range of activities in theoretical physics.

Further information about Nordita can be found at: www.nordita.org

Project Description

Nordita, the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics, invites applications for the Nordita Senior Fellows Program, a prestigious senior postdoctoral fellowship designed for researchers who are approaching academic independence.

We are looking for candidates excited about advancing science through collaboration and open exploration. The listed qualifications below serve as a guide rather than a checklist. We encourage applications from candidates with complementary strengths and diverse research trajectories, including those who may not meet every requirement. During this position, you will be able to progress your CV towards future academic positions.

The program is aimed at developing the next generation of research leaders in theoretical physics and related fields in the Nordic region and internationally. Nordita Fellows are expected to conduct independent, ambitious research within Nordita’s core areas of theoretical physics. In developing their independent research program, Nordita Fellows are encouraged to collaborate both with Nordita faculty mentors and with other researchers more broadly.

For this call, particular consideration will be given to candidates working in:

• Quantum matter and quantum materials
• Quantum sensing and quantum technologies
• Complex systems and networks
• Soft and living matter

However, all fields represented at Nordita will be considered.

Main Responsibilities

A Senior Nordita Fellow is expected to:

• Pursue independent, high-level research within their field
• Develop as an emerging research leader capable of forming new collaborations and initiating scientific activities
• Engage actively in Nordita’s scientific environment, including seminars, workshops, programs, and collaborations
• Contribute to Nordita’s community life, including mentoring and supervising junior scientists and participating in academic events

Qualification Requirements

Applicants are required to hold a PhD in relevant fields or an equivalent relevant degree from another country.

Assessment Criteria

• It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be considered. Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.
• Special attention will be given to candidates with previous postdoctoral research experience.
• A successful candidate is expected to have a strong record of research excellence and independence, research interests aligned with Nordita’s core areas, and demonstrated potential for scientific leadership and future career development.

About the Employment

• Full-time employment for a fixed term of 3 years with the possibility of a 1-year extension
• The first three years is a senior postdoc position, which may be extended to a fourth year as a researcher
• Fellows are employees of Nordita/SU with full salary and benefits
• Funding for travel, visitors, and scientific activities is available and part of the position
• Fellows are encouraged to take part in teaching and supervision activities, though this is not required
• Start date: second half of 2026

We Offer

• A dynamic interaction between higher education and research in an exciting and creative environment
• International working environment with favorable conditions
• Stockholm University is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city
• A workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from:
Mikael Fogelström, Director of Nordita
Email: mikael.fogelstrom@su.se

Application

• Apply via Stockholm University's recruitment system
• Attach a personal letter and CV as well as all attachments requested in the application form
• Applicants are responsible for ensuring the application is complete and submitted before the deadline

Instructions for applicants: How to apply for a position

Stockholm University contributes to the development of sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment, and the pursuit of truth.

Position Details

• Type of employment: Temporary position
• Contract type: Full time
• Salary: Individual salary setting
• Number of positions: 4
• Full-time equivalent: 100%
• City: Stockholm
• County: Stockholms län
• Country: Sweden
• Reference number: SU FV-0262-26

Union Representatives

• ST/OFR: st@st.su.se
• Saco-S: saco@saco.su.se
• Seko: sekodirekt@seko.se

Published: 30 Jan 2026
Application deadline: 16 Mar 2026