Postdoc in Theoretical Physics — UNC Chapel Hill and Joint Positions

Position Description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill invites applications for postdoctoral research positions in theoretical physics, broadly defined to include particle physics, cosmology, quantum gravity, string theory, gravitational physics, and related areas. The position is expected to begin in Fall 2027.

The successful candidate will join the gravity, cosmology, high energy physics and string theory (GCHEPS) group. Research interests within the community span quantum gravity, particle theory, string theory, cosmology, gravitational waves, and related areas. The theory community also has strong connections with the astrophysics group at UNC, as well as with the experimental neutrino, nuclear theory, and lattice QCD groups. UNC Chapel Hill is located in the Research Triangle and provides easy access to a broader physics community at nearby institutions, including Duke University and NC State University, with opportunities for scientific interactions across the Triangle.

Applicants will be considered for the following three positions:

1. A three-year postdoctoral research position at UNC Chapel Hill.

2. A 2+2 joint position consisting of two years at UNC Chapel Hill followed by two years at Harvard University.

3. A 2+2 joint position consisting of two years at UNC Chapel Hill followed by two years at the University of Chicago.

The Harvard University portion of the joint appointment will provide opportunities for interaction with the theoretical physics community in the High Energy Theory Group (HETG) whose research interests span particle theory, quantum field theory, string theory, quantum gravity, cosmology, and related areas.

The University of Chicago portion of the joint appointment will be based in the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics (KICP). KICP is an interdisciplinary community spanning several aspects of theoretical, observational and experimental cosmology including particle astrophysics, dark matter, dark energy, the early universe, gravitational physics, and related areas, with strong connections to the broader theoretical physics community at the University of Chicago.

One or more of these positions may be filled. The joint positions are intended to foster close scientific interaction between the participating institutions and will include dedicated funding and opportunities for extended visits between the universities. In line with this expectation, each position will include annual research and travel support.

Postdoctoral researchers will be expected to carry out independent research and to interact broadly with faculty, other postdoctoral researchers, and students in the GCHEPS community and partner institutions. They will have substantial freedom to pursue their own research directions as well as opportunities to engage with existing research at UNC and the partner institutions.

Candidates must have completed a Ph.D. in physics or a closely related field by the start of the appointment. Please note that this position is not eligible for H1B sponsorship.

Please submit your application through AcademicJobsOnline, including:

• a cover letter;
• a curriculum vitae;
• a list of publications;
• a research statement;
• three letters of recommendation.

Applications received by December 15, 2026 will receive full consideration. Applications received after this deadline may also be considered.

The positions will follow the standard high-energy theory postdoctoral offer deadline, and candidates will not be required to make a decision before the agreed-upon acceptance date for the 2027 hiring cycle.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.