Research Fellow in Theoretical & Computational Quantum Physics

Our Mission Coventry University Group is a global education group with a mission of Creating Better Futures. We are driven by our passionate belief in the transformational power of education and research to enable and empower our students, colleagues and partners and to improve the world around them. Our people are key to our success and each role contributes to the Group’s ongoing progress in communities around the world. An ambitious and innovative university, our research is designed to have real-world impact on society and tackle global challenges through our 13 challenge-led, interdisciplinary research centres. We enable high performing research teams and future research leaders to thrive and make an impact locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. The Centre for Fluid and Complex Systems (FCS) carries out internationally recognised research in statistical physics, complex systems and fluid mechanics. The Centre combines theoretical, computational, and experimental approaches and maintains an extensive network of national and international collaborators.

The Role We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in theoretical and computational quantum physics to work on the EPSRC-funded project Aqua Nova (Active Quantum Matter: Novel Quantum Phases) within the Centre for Fluid and Complex Systems (FCS), Coventry University. This is a research-focused position dedicated to advancing a new interdisciplinary area at the interface of active matter, non-equilibrium statistical physics, and quantum many-body systems. In this role you will work closely with the Project Lead to develop the theoretical and numerical foundations of active quantum matter — a novel class of driven quantum systems in which individual quantum agents consume energy to generate self-propelled, collective behaviour. Active matter and quantum matter have independently delivered major advances over the past decade. Aqua Nova aims to bridge these fields by establishing the fundamental mechanisms through which quantum coherence, entanglement, and driving give rise to genuinely non-classical collective behaviour in self-organising systems. The project will combine analytical methods with large-scale numerical simulations to uncover universal mechanisms, coherent properties, and potential technological applications of active quantum systems.

Within the Centre for Fluid and Complex Systems, the successful applicant will be expected to carry out high-quality, independent research in theoretical and computational quantum physics, aligned with the objectives of the EPSRC-funded project Aqua Nova. They will be responsible for delivering high-quality outputs, developing novel numerical and analytical methods, and contributing to the Centre’s research environment through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and mentoring of students where appropriate.

Qualifications Required PhD in Theoretical Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline (or equivalent experience demonstrating the ability to carry out independent research).

Our Successful Candidate A highly motivated and experienced Research Fellow with demonstrable expert knowledge and understanding of many-body quantum physics, including experience contributing to the innovation and development of the field. Possessing an advanced knowledge of research methods and techniques, you will have the ability to develop research objectives, projects, and proposals for your own and joint research. With research skills sufficient to write up research and produce excellent, high-quality publications in high-profile peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international events, you will be committed to working collaboratively on research development, delivery and dissemination including interdisciplinary or cross-disciplinary research, public engagement, and knowledge exchange.

The Benefits Along with a competitive salary we offer an industry leading Rewards and Benefits package which includes:

• Excellent Employers Pension Contribution
• 30 days Annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• New Holiday Purchase Scheme up to 5 additional days
• BUPA Cash Plan
• 50% off Tuition Fee’s for staff dependants
• CU Reward Scheme – Discounts across a range of High Street/ Online Retailers
• New Electric Car Scheme
• Cycle To Work scheme

Our Culture As a global Education Group, equality, diversity, and inclusion are embedded within the fabric of our organisation and are a key focus of our core values. We harness the power and potential of the diverse cultures, backgrounds, abilities, and experiences of our students, colleagues, and partners to create opportunities for all.

Full Job Description & Person Specification Click here to view the full job description and person specification We look forward to hearing from you!