Summary
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher / Staff Scientist position in Theoretical Quantum Physics in the Quantum Systems Unit (QSU) led by Prof. Thomas Busch. The position focuses on theoretical investigations of quantum matter, quantum many-body systems, quantum thermodynamics, quantum optics, quantum information science, and emerging quantum technologies.
The successful candidate will join an internationally recognized research environment and conduct interdisciplinary research using analytical and numerical approaches to explore strongly interacting quantum systems, non-equilibrium dynamics, atom-light interactions, engineered dissipation, and emergent quantum phenomena.
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher / Staff Scientist – Theoretical Quantum Physics
Job Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Type | Postdoctoral Researcher / Staff Scientist |
| Research Unit | Quantum Systems Unit (QSU), OIST |
| Principal Investigator | Prof. Thomas Busch |
| Institute | Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University |
| Appointment Duration | Initially 2 years, extendable by 1 additional year based on performance |
| Preferred Starting Date | December 2026 (flexible) |
| Employment Type | Full-time Research Position |
| Application Deadline | 15 September 2026 |
| Location | Okinawa, Japan |
Research Area
- Theoretical Quantum Physics
- Quantum Many-Body Physics
- Quantum Thermodynamics
- Quantum Optics and Atom-Light Interactions
- Quantum Information Science
- Ultracold Atomic Systems
- Quantum Simulation
- Open Quantum Systems
- Quantum Transport
- Nanophotonics
- Strongly Correlated Quantum Systems
Location
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University
Okinawa, Japan
OIST is an international research university promoting interdisciplinary collaboration across physical sciences, biological sciences, computational sciences, mathematical sciences, and environmental sciences. Researchers from more than 60 countries work in an English-speaking research environment.
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants should have:
- A Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics or a closely related discipline.
- Strong publication record appropriate to career stage.
- Demonstrated creativity, scientific independence, and analytical ability.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work in an international English-speaking environment.
- For Staff Scientist applicants: more than 5 years of post-PhD research experience.
Preferred expertise includes:
- Ultracold quantum gases.
- Strongly correlated quantum systems.
- Numerical many-body techniques such as:
- DMRG
- Tensor networks
- Exact diagonalization
- Monte Carlo methods
- Quantum thermodynamics.
- Open quantum systems.
- Quantum optics and atom-light interactions.
- Nanophotonics.
- Quantum information science.
- Scientific programming skills in Python, Julia, C/C++, MATLAB, or similar languages.
- Experience with high-performance computing or GPU-based numerical methods is advantageous.
Job Description
The selected researcher will:
- Conduct advanced theoretical research in quantum physics and quantum technologies.
- Investigate quantum many-body dynamics, non-equilibrium phenomena, and quantum matter.
- Develop analytical and numerical models for strongly interacting quantum systems.
- Explore topics including ultracold atoms, quantum engines, quantum batteries, engineered dissipation, and quantum simulations.
- Develop independent research directions aligned with QSU activities.
- Collaborate with researchers across OIST and international scientific networks.
- Publish research findings in high-quality scientific journals.
- Participate in interdisciplinary research activities within OIST.
Salary / Benefits
OIST provides a competitive salary package with benefits including:
- Housing allowance.
- Relocation support.
- Commuting allowance.
- Private School Mutual Aid benefits.
- Generous annual leave and summer holidays.
- Access to modern research facilities and computational resources.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Brief statement of research interests (maximum 2 pages).
- Publication list.
- Contact details of at least two referees.
Applications should be sent electronically to:
Prof. Thomas Busch
Email: thomas.busch@oist.jp
Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
Last Date for Apply
15 September 2026
Reference: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University – Quantum Systems Unit Postdoctoral Researcher Advertisement.
