Postdoctoral Fellow in Physics

Department of Physics

The Department of Physics is one of the biggest departments within the Faculty of Science and supports a broad range of basic research in experimental and theoretical physics. It has about 250 employees, of which 95 are PhD students. Many have been internationally recruited. The Department is part of the AlbaNova University Center, which apart from the Department of Physics houses the Department of Astronomy, the Physics Departments at the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), and the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics (Nordita).

More information about us is available at: Department of Physics

Project description

Complexity is a fundamental concept that quantifies the difficulty of accomplishing a particular task, given a specific set of allowed, simple operations and a procedure to achieve it. As such, it is an important part of many fields from mathematics to computer science. Surprisingly, physics still lacks a precise definition of quantum complexity and providing it is one of the most urgent problems at the cutting-edge of quantum theory and quantum gravity.

The position within the ERC Consolidator project “Quantum Complexity from Quantum Field Theories to Quantum Gravity” (PI: Pawel Caputa) will aim to fill this gap.

The goal of the project is to develop universal measures of quantum complexity for many-body systems, quantum field theories and quantum gravity. The milestones of the project include: synthesizing and developing physical measures of complexity, formulating them in exact holographic models, and applying them to shed new light on the physics behind black hole horizons and spacetime singularities.

Main responsibilities

The position involves mostly research conducted in a close collaboration with the PI, one PhD student, as well as other members of the group. The responsibilities will also include help in organizing standard group activities.

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country. The degree must have been completed no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment criteria

It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage.

Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to researchers experienced in the AdS/CFT correspondence, quantum field theory, quantum complexity and quantum information.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances.
Start date: 2026-09-01 or as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from:
Pawel Caputa — pawel.caputa@fysik.su.se

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.

Stockholm University contributes to the development of sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment and the pursuit of truth.

Type of employment: Temporary position
Contract type: Full time
Salary: Individual salary setting
Number of positions: 1
Full-time equivalent: 100 %
City: Stockholm
County: Stockholms län
Country: Sweden
Reference number: SU FV-3826-25

Union representatives

• ST/OFR: st@st.su.se

• Saco-S: saco@saco.su.se

• Seko: sekodirekt@seko.se

Published: 24.Oct.2025
Last application date: 17.Dec.2025

In your application, please refer to Professorpositions.com