Postdoc Position in Dark Matter Particle Phenomenology
Chalmers Tekniska Högskola AB / Högskolejobb / Göteborg
2025-09-26
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hela Sverige Visa alla jobb hos Chalmers Tekniska Högskola AB i Göteborg Do you want to contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of dark matter physics? This is an opportunity for a postdoctoral position at the Division of Subatomic, High-Energy and Plasma Physics, Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, focused on innovative research at the frontiers of astroparticle physics.
About the research project
The selected candidate will focus on two main lines of research. The first concerns the modeling of general dark matter-electron interactions in detector materials. This will be achieved by combining methods from particle and solid state physics in order to effectively describe the response of bound electrons to an external dark matter perturbation.
The second line of research addresses the theoretical investigation of neutrino-electron interactions in liquid xenon detectors, which represent an irreducible background in direct dark matter searches. The expected outcome of this project has several applications to the field of dark matter direct detection and will allow the selected candidate to establish themselves as a leading researcher in an interdisciplinary field at the forefront of science.
The research will be conducted within the Division of Subatomic, High-Energy and Plasma Physics under the supervision of Professor Riccardo Catena. There will also be opportunities to collaborate with Professor Nicola Spaldin, Department of Materials, ETH Zurich.
Research environment
The Division of Subatomic, High-Energy and Plasma Physics conducts research in theoretical and experimental subatomic physics, mathematical and high-energy physics, plasma and fusion physics, as well as nuclear physics. This diversity allows us to connect fundamental questions about the particles and forces governing our universe to energy-related research. Our methodologies are equally varied, ranging from theory and computer simulations to experimental investigations.
The theoretical subatomic physics group performs research on nuclear, elementary particle, and astroparticle physics by applying methods from quantum field theory, computational physics, statistics, and applied mathematics.
Within astroparticle physics, our focus spans from the theoretical modeling of systems and phenomena beyond the Standard Model of particle physics to the interpretation of cosmological and astrophysical data on the origin, composition, and evolution of the universe. At present, our studies concentrate on deciphering the elusive nature of dark matter - one of the major unsolved mysteries of modern science. We are particularly interested in modeling its microscopic properties, calculating their observable consequences, and designing strategies to test them experimentally.
Your profile
• A doctoral degree in Physics awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline*.
• A strong background in particle and astroparticle physics, with a focus on dark matter and neutrinos.
• Strong analytical skills in quantum field theory.
• Master-level knowledge in solid state physics (appreciated).
A genuine curiosity for the subject (e.g., demonstrated by participation in conferences or summer/winter schools) and excellent oral and written communication skills are highly valued. Experience with interdisciplinary projects is meritorious.
Knowledge of Swedish is not required, as English is the working language and the group publishes internationally.
• The date on the doctoral degree certificate is considered the official date of completion. Exceptions to the three-year eligibility limit may be made for documented circumstances such as parental leave, sick leave, or military service.
What you will do
The selected candidate's main responsibility will be to perform analytical and numerical calculations of dark matter- and neutrino-induced electronic transition rates in a wide range of detector materials by combining methods from particle and solid state physics.
The postdoc is also expected to develop independent ideas and tackle complex physics problems, while having the opportunity to co-supervise master's students in the group.
Contract terms
The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years.
The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.
What we offer
• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Read more about Sweden's generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.
If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.
Application procedure
The application should be written in English be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.
CV
• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.
Personal letter
• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
• An outline of your future goals and research focus.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.
Application deadline: 15 November, 2025
Contact information
For questions, please contact:
Professor Riccardo Catena (SHP)
catena@chalmers.se • ** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***
Ersättning Enligt kollektivavtal
Så ansöker du Sista dag att ansöka är 2025-11-15
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Arbetsgivare Chalmers Tekniska Högskola AB (org.nr 556479-5598)
Jobbnummer 9528880