Technologist positions in quantum many-body theory and emergent quantum matter

9 Dec 2026 - 00:00 (UTC) Country: Italy Type of Contract: Temporary Job Status: Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description Commitment & contract: two positions (fixed-term contract as a technologist for 12 months, renewable for up to 36 months) from March 2027 Location: Pisa, CNI@NEST (National Enterprise for nanoScience and nanoTechnology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa) Project: QuanTwist (Twisting quantum spin liquids: a unique path towards novel phases of matter) FIS-2024-06649 finanziato dal Fondo italiano per la scienza “Decreto Direttoriale n. 1802 del 21-11-2024 PROCEDURA COMPETITIVA PER LO SVILUPPO DELLE ATTIVITÀ DI RICERCA FONDAMENTALE, A VALERE SUL FONDO ITALIANO PER LA SCIENZA 2024 2025” MACROSETTORE PE - PHYSICAL SCIENCES AND ENGINEERING Step into a world of endless possibilities, together let’s leave something for the future! At IIT, we are committed to advancing human-centered Science and Technology to address the most urgent societal challenges of our era. We foster excellence in both fundamental and applied research, spanning fields such as neuroscience and cognition, humanoid technologies and robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and material sciences, offering a truly interdisciplinary scientific experience. Our approach integrates cutting-edge tools and technology, empowering researchers to push the limits of knowledge and innovation. With us, your curiosity will know no bounds. We are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering diversity in all its forms, creating an inclusive environment. We value the unique experiences, knowledge, backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives of our people. By embracing diversity, we believe science can achieve its fullest potential. THE ROLE The Emergent Quantum Phenomena at the Nanoscale research unit ( https://eqpn.iit.it/ ) is coordinated by Dr. Alessandro Principi. The research focuses on collective and emergent phenomena in quantum materials, encompassing strongly correlated quantum matter, topological systems, and unconventional phases of matter, including quantum spin liquids and other fractionalised phases. Particular emphasis is placed on low-dimensional systems, van der Waals heterostructures, and twisted materials. Within the framework of the project QuanTwist (Bando FIS3, CUP I53C25002150001), two positions are currently available to investigate the physics of (twisted) heterostructures of strongly correlated quantum materials. This is an exciting opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment. The group's research activities range from analytical and semi-analytical investigations of fundamental models to theoretical calculations of experimentally observable properties in realistic quantum materials. A central objective is to establish connections between theoretical predictions and existing or upcoming experiments. Systems of interest include, but are not limited to, van der Waals materials and candidate quantum spin liquids. Within our group, researchers are encourage to develop independent research activities within the broader objectives of the research line. The group’s research benefits from interactions with theoretical and experimental groups studying quantum materials, strongly-correlated systems and van der Waals heterostructures. We have strong ties with the University of Manchester and collaborations with KIT, University of Wurzburg, TU/e, University of Sherbrooke, NUS, ICN2 Spain. Research will be conducted in collaboration with the PI and other members of the group. The position offers the opportunity to develop independent research directions within the broad field of quantum many-body physics, within the scope of the funding QuanTwist project. Within the research team, your main responsibilities will be to: Design models of 2D and twisted materials, as well as strongly-correlated and topological systems, and develop theoretical descriptions of emergent quantum phases. Use analytical and semi-analytical (field-theoretical, kinetic equation, mean-field, etc.) and/or numerical methods to study their properties, analysing in particular emergent quantum phases Entertain collaborations with other theoretical or experimental groups relevant to the project, in particular with the aim of connecting theory with existing or upcoming experiments. Participate in writing papers, present results to conferences. Develop related research directions and complementary approaches. ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS A PhD in Theoretical (Condensed Matter) Physics, or related areas of physics, such as quantum many-body theory, statistical physics, or quantum theory. Experience in analytical, semi-analytical methods (including field-theoretical approaches) and/or numerical approaches in quantum many-body theory, broadly intended, is desirable. Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish scientific results. Good command of spoken and written English. ADDITIONAL SKILLS Experience in one or more areas of quantum many-body theory, including for example: quantum field theory, quantum magnetism, correlated electrons, quantum spin liquids and other fractionalised phases, topology, 2D materials, moiré and twisted systems. Knowledge of programming languages and scientific software, such as Python, C/C++, Mathematica (when relevant to the candidate’s research approach). Ability to work in a dynamic and international environment. Capacity to work autonomously and collaboratively in a highly interdisciplinary environment. Possess analytical reasoning skills and a growth mindset. COMPENSATION PACKAGE A yearly gross salary up to 47.000,00 €, plus a potential annual bonus of 20% of the gross annual base salary Private health care coverage Candidates from abroad or Italian citizens who have carried scientific research activity permanently abroad and meet specific requirements, may be entitled to a deduction from taxable income of up to 90% from 6 to 13 years. The project aims to develop theoretical approaches to discover new phases of quantum matter emerging from interactions, topology, quantum geometry and emergent gauge structures. This position is financed by the Italian Ministry of University and Research within the FIS3 consolidator QuantTwist project. Please submit your application using the online form and including: A detailed CV with a complete list of publications Development programme 3 relevant papers/patents 3 reference letters Application’s deadline: December 9th, 2026 To discover more about life at IIT, visit the dedicated section here: https://www.iit.it/en/work-at-iit Where to apply Website: https://app.ncoreplat.com/jobsharingredirect/817706/technologist-positions-in-quantum-many-body-theory-and-emergent-quantum-matter-it/istituto-italiano-di-tecnologia