Postdoctoral Position in Holography and Quantum Dynamics

Position Description

One postdoctoral position is available to work with Associate Professor Zhuo-Yu Xian at the School of Physics and Astronomy, Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), Zhuhai, China.

The research program broadly focuses on connections between gravity, quantum many-body physics, and quantum information. Topics of interest include:

• holography, quantum gravity, and black hole physics;
• quantum information and strongly coupled quantum dynamics;
• quantum chaos, thermalization, complexity, and open quantum systems.

Applicants working in any of these areas or closely related subjects are welcome. Expertise in all of these topics is not required. Research projects can be developed together with the successful candidate, with flexibility to pursue independent projects and collaborations.

The School of Physics and Astronomy provides an active research environment in theoretical physics and related areas, with research activities in gravity and holography, quantum field theory, quantum information, quantum simulation, and precision measurement, together with links to the TianQin Center.

Applicants should have a PhD in theoretical physics or a closely related field by the starting date.

The appointment is normally for two years and will follow the postdoctoral scheme of Sun Yat-sen University. Candidates may also be considered for the SYSU “Yat-sen” Postdoctoral Fellow program. Salary and benefits follow the relevant university policies.

The starting date is flexible and can be discussed with the successful candidate, with an earlier start preferred.

To apply, please submit the following materials either through AcademicJobsOnline or by email to xianzhy5@mail.sysu.edu.cn, with the subject line “Postdoctoral application – [Your Name]”:

• CV and publication list;
• a brief research statement;
• at least two letters of recommendation.

Applications received by November 1, 2026 will receive priority consideration. Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. At least two letters of recommendation could be submitted directly by their referees, either through AcademicJobsOnline or by email to xianzhy5@mail.sysu.edu.cn, by November 15, 2026. The final appointment is subject to the university’s formal approval process.

Informal inquiries are welcome.

Further information:

• Zhuo-Yu Xian: https://spa.sysu.edu.cn/en/teacher/2815
• School of Physics and Astronomy: https://spa.sysu.edu.cn/en
• SYSU postdoctoral recruitment: https://www.sysu.edu.cn/sysuen/index/Jobs.htm