Applications are invited for two Research Associate (RA) positions in theoretical condensed matter physics, focusing on modelling emergent quantum phenomena in twisted van der Waals (vdW) interfaces. Both positions are based in the Department of Physics and Astronomy of the University of Manchester.

This research initiative aims to combine the power of first-principles modelling with advanced theoretical frameworks to establish new guiding principles for studying exotic quantum phases emerging at the interface of strongly correlated vdW heterostructures subject to mechanical distortions and external fields.

Both positions are available immediately for a period of up to 36 months. You should have, or be about to obtain, a PhD degree in physics with a background in theoretical condensed matter physics (different backgrounds will also be given consideration, as long as there is a clear interest in the field of research). An excellent track record of publications in low-dimensional materials, strongly correlated electronics systems, and/or field-theoretical methods with application to many-body systems and strong interactions is required. You should also be capable of maintaining collaborations with experimental groups.

Roles and qualifications

One RA should have a strong background in first-principles modelling of materials within density functional theory and beyond (GW, DMFT, etc.) and high-level programming skills. Working in collaboration with Dr Mohammad Saeed Bahramy, you will be responsible for performing high-throughput ab-initio calculations and deriving effective tight-binding models for a wide variety of vdW heterostructures. The primary focus will be on constructing realistic models for commensurate and twisted vdW interfaces and exploring their response to external fields and mechanical distortion.

The other RA should have strong expertise in theoretical condensed matter physics, particularly field-theoretical methods (such as Feynman diagrams, Keldysh kinetic equation, replica method, etc.) possibly applied to many-body and/or strongly interacting systems. Together with Dr Alessandro Principi, you will contribute to the development of theories describing emergent quantum phases in twisted vdW heterostructures of strongly-correlated materials, using input from ab-initio calculation performed by the other RA.

RAs are expected to collaborate with each other and other members of Dr Principi and Dr Bahramy’s groups, in particular helping them with the supervision of PhD students. They will also contribute to writing papers and grant applications and present results at conferences.

Details of contract

Salary: £36024-£44263 per annum, depending on relevant experience

Faculty/Organisational Unit: Science and Engineering

Location: Manchester

Employment type: Fixed Term

Division/Team: Department of Physics & Astronomy

Closing date: 18/02/2024

Contract Duration: Available from 1 April 2024 for 36 months

Benefits

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme

• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services, including an Employee Assistance Programme

• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays

• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period

• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

About the University of Manchester

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Access through contributing to the University’s social responsibility agenda, demonstrating a commitment to its policies, activities and delivery of initiatives, including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) in higher education. The Department has held JUNO Champion status since 2016 for its commitment to achieving gender equality, which positively promotes inclusivity for all.

As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit. Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Contact Information

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Dr Mohammad Saeed Bahramy (RA position 1) and Dr Alessandro Principi (RA position 2)

Email: [email protected] [email protected]

General enquiries:

Email: [email protected]

Application Submission

For more information and to submit your application, please visit: https://www.jobs.manchester.ac.uk/displayjob.aspx?jobid=27773