Postdoctoral Scholars, Theory of Quantum Matter Unit at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) | Jobs.InOkinawa

Postdoctoral Scholars, Theory of Quantum Matter Unit

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) 📍 Onna Posted Jul 23, 2025
⚠ Stale ¥4,600,000 – ¥5,900,000/yr

Conduct theoretical research in condensed matter physics and quantum materials at OIST.

The position

The Theory of Quantum Matter Unit (TQM) at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) is seeking to recruit up to three Postdoctoral Scholars. Candidates with 5 or more years of postdoctoral research experience may also be considered for appointment as a Staff Scientist.

The TQM Unit carries research in the broad area of condensed matter theory and statistical physics, making use of both numerical and analytic techniques. Postdocs in the Unit have the opportunity to develop their own interests, and to collaborate with Unit members, including Yoshi Kamiya, Tokuro Shimokawa and Nic Shannon.

Themes currently represented include quantum spin liquids; application of concepts from quantum information to quantum materials; algorithmic aspects of quantum computing; topological aspects of magnetism; connections between condensed matter and high-energy physics; identification of novel phases of matter through machine learning; and the development of new algorithms for the simulation of quantum matter. Applications from strong candidates with complementary interests are also welcome. The group maintains strong links with experimental groups developing and studying new quantum materials.

Further details of the TQM Unit can be found at: Theory of Quantum Matter Unit (Nic Shannon) | OIST Groups

About OIST

The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University was established in 2011 to contribute to the development of science and technology worldwide and to serve as a hub of innovation in Okinawa. OIST is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan which offers a 5-year PhD program and brings together outstanding researchers from across the country and across disciplines to conduct cutting-edge scientific research.

The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking a beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding. To facilitate multidisciplinary research, there are no academic departments. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration.

English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research, and our unwavering commitment to scientific and technological innovation is dedicated to generating progress that will fuel Okinawa's economic growth.

Responsibilities

Postdocs in the TQM Unit are expected to engage in creative, curiosity-driven research, and are encouraged to develop their own independent interests, as well as collaborating with existing group members.

Requirements

Qualifications

Required:

  • PhD in Theoretical Physics or a related subject.

Benefits

  • Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
  • Annual paid leave and summer holidays
  • Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
  • Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
  • Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
  • Access to Child Development Center
  • Access to Schooling Options
  • Language Education
  • Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
  • Remote Work System
Relocation allowanceHousing allowanceCommuting allowanceHealth insurancePension insurancePaid leaveChild Development CenterRemote work
Additional Info

Employment Term

Full-time, Postdoctoral positions will normally be held for a period of three years. Contract initially with 6-month probationary period (inclusive).

Starting Date: The start date of the positions is flexible, but would normally be expected to fall between October 31, 2025, and April 1, 2026.

Working Hours

9:00-17:30 (Discretionary)

Report to

Professor Nic Shannon

Application Documents

  • CV with publication list
  • Cover letter (1-2 pages) briefly outlining the candidate's accomplishments and ambitions for future research
  • Copies of 2-3 papers (or preprints) representing the candidate's most interesting work to date.
  • Candidates should also arrange for a minimum of three letters of recommendation to be uploaded on their behalf.

How to Apply

Candidates are invited to apply through the website Academic Jobs Online: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/30256

Application Due Date

For primary consideration, please submit all materials by October 31, 2025. Applications arriving later than this will be considered until the posts are filled.

Declaration

  • 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 references will be kept confidential in accordance to the OIST Privacy Policy; documents will not be returned.
  • Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
  • Prevention of Passive Smoking: No smoking indoors
  • Please view our policy for rules on external professional activities: Rules for Concurrent Appointment.
  • Further details about the University can be viewed on our website.

Skills & Keywords

condensed matter theorystatistical physicsquantum spin liquidsquantum informationquantum computingmachine learningnumerical techniquesanalytic techniques
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