Postdoctoral Researcher / Staff Scientist in Theoretical Quantum Physics Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University in Japan

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher / Staff Scientist in Theoretical Quantum Physics in the Quantum Systems Unit, headed by Prof. Thomas Busch.

The successful candidate will join an internationally recognised research group working at the intersection of quantum many-body physics, quantum thermodynamics, quantum optics, and quantum information science. The project involves analytical and numerical research on strongly interacting quantum systems, non-equilibrium dynamics, atom-light interactions, engineered dissipation, and emergent quantum phenomena, with relevance to future quantum technologies.

Research directions of interest include ultracold atomic Bose-Einstein condensates and degenerate Fermi gases, non-equilibrium quantum many-body dynamics, quantum engines and quantum batteries, quantum optics and nanophotonics, open quantum systems, quantum transport, and quantum simulation. The unit offers substantial freedom to develop independent research directions aligned with its broader programme, as well as opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across OIST.

The position is based at OIST in Onna-son, Okinawa, Japan. OIST is a highly international English-speaking graduate university with strong research infrastructure, outstanding computational facilities, and a collaborative environment spanning physical, biological, mathematical, computational, and environmental sciences.

Eligibility: applicants should hold a Ph.D. in theoretical physics or a closely related discipline, have a strong publication record, and demonstrate creativity, independence, and strong analytical and communication skills. For the Staff Scientist level, candidates must be more than five years post-PhD. Useful experience includes ultracold quantum gases, strongly correlated systems, DMRG, tensor networks, exact diagonalization, Monte Carlo methods, quantum thermodynamics, open quantum systems, quantum optics, nanophotonics, quantum information science, and scientific programming.

Funding and benefits: OIST offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including housing allowance, relocation support, commuting allowance, Private School Mutual Aid benefits, generous annual leave and summer holidays, and access to modern research and computational resources.

Appointment and deadline: the contract is initially for two years, with possible renewal for one additional year depending on performance. The preferred starting date is December 2026 (flexible). Applications are reviewed as they are received, and the deadline is 15 September 2026.

How to apply: submit a CV, a brief research statement (maximum two pages), a publication list, and contact details for at least two referees by email to Prof. Thomas Busch at [email protected].