"Research Fellow in Theoretical Physics - AR3241"

University of St Andrews - School of Physics and Astronomy

Location:	St Andrews
Salary:	£38,784
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On:	23rd January 2026
Closes:	27th March 2026
Job Ref:	463324

Start date: 1 July 2026
Fixed term: 36 months

Applications are sought for a committed Post-Doctoral Research Fellow to work with Prof Brendon Lovett conducting research for an EPSRC funded project entitled "Good Enough” Prediction Of Realistic Open Quantum System Dynamics For Magnetism, Transport And Chemical Reactions. The primary duties will be to perform theoretical research that uses techniques for modelling open quantum systems that are strongly interacting with their environment. The focus will be on making calculations more efficient by introducing an element of classicality into the models. You will also work with Prof Jonathan Keeling. It will also involve collaboration with the other investigator on the grant, Prof Janet Anders at the University of Exeter as well as international project partners.

The successful applicant will have (or be near to completion of) a PhD in Physics or closely related subject with expertise in the theory of open quantum systems.

The post is available for 36 months starting 1st July 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The project will also fund another position at the University of Exeter and candidates are encouraged to apply for that position too.

For further information and enquiries, please contact Prof Brendon Lovett at bwl4@st-andrews.ac.uk.

The package for the Research Fellow position includes:

• Financial contribution to relocation.
• Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with a generous employer contribution of 14.5%.
• A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family friendly policies, supporting work-life balance.
• Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services.
• Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel.
• Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff, access to training and development opportunities including LinkedIn Learning, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme.
• 34 Days Annual Leave plus 5 Public Holidays.

Closing date: 27 March 2026

Interview date: 24 April 2026

Job description: AR3241RS FPs.pdf

Please quote ref: AR3241RS