Research Associate-Fixed Term

Job Description:

Position Summary

The Theory Center for Non-equilibrium Phenomena (TCNP) in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Michigan State University invites applications for a three-year postdoctoral position as the TCNP Non-Equilibrium Postdoctoral Fellow.

The position will be supported by the center and will be free to collaborate across the member faculty (Profs. Chris Baldwin, Philip Crowley, Mark Dykman, Mohammad Maghrebi, and Carlo Piermarocchi). Research at the TCNP is focused on developing the theoretical foundations needed to describe and control a broad range of non-equilibrium systems, which appear across disciplines from biology to quantum dynamics. Particular problems of interest include those with application to one or more of the following areas: condensed matter, quantum materials, quantum information science, and/or biological and genetic systems.

The appointment will be for a period of up to three years, subject to performance review and availability of funds. Successful applicants are expected to start by fall 2026.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field

Minimum Requirements

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field prior to the start date. A strong background in theoretical or statistical physics and programming skills are required.

Required Application Materials

Applications and supporting credentials must be submitted through the MSU hiring portal. The required application materials are:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae (including list of publications)
• Research statement (≤ 2 pages)
• Contact information for three reference letter writers should be provided

Special Instructions

Review of applications will begin on 01/15/2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Candidates whose complete applications and supporting materials are uploaded before this date will receive full consideration.

For further information please see:

• The Theory Center for Non-equilibrium Phenomena (https://web.pa.msu.edu/cmt/)
• Physics and Astronomy (https://pa.msu.edu/)
• Condensed matter group (https://pa.msu.edu/condensed-matter-physics/research.aspx)

Applicants are welcome to contact the relevant faculty members with any questions:

• Prof. Chris Baldwin - [email protected]
• Prof. Philip Crowley - [email protected]
• Prof. Mark Dykman - [email protected]
• Prof. Mohammad Maghrebi - [email protected]
• Prof. Carlo Piermarocchi - [email protected]

Review of Applications Begins On

01/15/2026

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.