Postdoctoral Scholar or Staff Scientist in Algebraic Combinatorics and Fundamental Physics

Position Description

Postdoctoral Scholar or Staff Scientist

Algebraic Combinatorics and Fundamental Physics Unit

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST)

We invite applications for one Postdoctoral Scholar or Staff Scientist to join the Algebraic Combinatorics and Fundamental Physics Unit, led by Matteo Parisi, at OIST in Okinawa, Japan. The successful candidate will develop independent and collaborative research in a growing group working across mathematics and theoretical physics.

First review: Mid-November 2026. Applications will be screened upon arrival, and the position will remain open until filled.

Starting date: April–October 2027, by agreement with the successful candidate.

Initial appointment: Two years, with possible renewal under OIST regulations and subject to the necessary approvals.

Research and group

Our research explores the combinatorial and geometric structures underlying quantum field theory, connecting algebraic combinatorics and geometry with questions about scattering amplitudes and quantum observables.

Research interests include algebraic combinatorics, algebraic geometry, nonlinear algebra, discrete geometry, total positivity, cluster algebras, amplituhedra, positive geometry, scattering amplitudes, Feynman integrals, Landau analysis, and related aspects of quantum field theory. We welcome applicants with expertise in one or more relevant areas; expertise across the full range is not expected.

You will join three postdoctoral researchers, alongside research interns and rotation students. OIST’s Graduate School recruits and financially supports new PhD cohorts each year, providing an established route for doctoral students to join the Unit and opportunities for collaborative research and graduate mentoring.

OIST is an international graduate university with a five-year PhD programme, English as its official language, and no academic departments. Its campus overlooks the coast of Okinawa. OIST offers research and travel support, shared research resources, and assistance with relocation and daily life.

Appointments and qualifications

The appointment category will reflect the successful candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expected responsibilities.

· Postdoctoral Scholar: Develop your research profile through independent and collaborative work within the Unit’s interdisciplinary programme.

· Staff Scientist: Bring an established record of independent research and specialist expertise, take substantial responsibility for collaborative projects, and mentor postdoctoral researchers and students. Substantial post-PhD research experience, typically exceeding five years, is expected.

Applicants for either appointment should have:

· A PhD in mathematics, physics, or a closely related field by the starting date.

· A strong research record in an area relevant to the Unit and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

· The ability to communicate and collaborate effectively in English.

Both appointments involve conducting high-quality research, collaborating within and beyond OIST, publishing and presenting results, and contributing to the Unit’s seminars, workshops, and appropriate mentoring, community, or outreach activities.

Compensation and benefits

Expected annual salary

· Postdoctoral Scholar: ¥4.6–5.9 million

· Staff Scientist: ¥5.0–7.5 million

Salary will be determined in accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations, taking account of the candidate’s experience, skills, and background.

Benefits include:

· Relocation, housing and commuting allowances.

· Health insurance through Private School Mutual Aid, welfare pension and workers’ accident compensation insurance.

· Access to the Child Development Center and schooling options, language education, and Resource Center support for daily life.

· OIST’s remote work system.

Benefits are provided in accordance with OIST regulations.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted through AcademicJobsOnline using the application form on this page. Please provide:

· Cover letter, indicating whether you wish to be considered for Postdoctoral Scholar, Staff Scientist, or both; your preferred starting date.

· Curriculum vitae, including a publication list.

· Research statement, maximum five pages.

· Broader Impacts Statement, maximum two pages, describing activities or plans supporting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, mentoring, outreach, or community building, including contributions to an inclusive research environment at OIST.

· Names and contact information of three referees. Recommendation letters are not required at the initial application stage. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to arrange for three confidential recommendation letters to be submitted, following instructions provided at that stage.

Employment details

Term: Full-time, fixed-term appointment for two years, including an initial six-month probationary period. Renewal may be possible, taking into consideration the employee’s performance, conduct and behaviour, OIST’s financial and other circumstances, and the regulations and approvals applicable to the appointment category.

Working hours: Discretionary working hours system; the employee is deemed to have worked seven hours and thirty minutes per day.

Holidays and leave: Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 3. Annual paid leave, summer leave, sick leave, and special leave.

Reporting line: Assistant Professor Matteo Parisi.

Location: OIST Main Campus, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, Japan.

Equal opportunity and other information

We welcome candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those traditionally underrepresented in mathematics and physics, including women+, LGBTIQ+ individuals, and scholars from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students, and staff.

Information provided by applicants or referees will be kept confidential in accordance with the OIST Privacy Policy. Application documents will not be returned. Only applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Recruiting organisation: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation. No smoking indoors. External professional activities are subject to OIST’s rules on concurrent appointments.

Enquiries

Scientific enquiries: Assistant Professor Matteo Parisi — matteo.parisi@oist.jp

Administrative enquiries: Unit administrative team — parisi-unit-admin@oist.jp