Job Title
Postdoctoral Researcher - Theoretical Physics
Commitment to On-Campus Experience
Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in-person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus. Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.
Pay Range
$62,400 - $65,000
Pay Determination
Salary offers at Syracuse University will be based on education, experience, and relevant skills, as well as the academic or professional discipline of the position in the context of the home department, school, or college. Salary offers may also be influenced by prior relevant work or industry experience, where applicable. Faculty pay ranges are for 8.5 months’ salary unless otherwise specified.
Hours
Determined by supervisor
Unionized Position Code
UA
Job Description
The J. M. Schwarz Theory Group develops theoretical and computational approaches for emergent phenomena in living and nonliving matter, including rigidity transitions, physical learning, collective cellular intelligence, multiscale mechanics from chromatin to tissues, and adaptation in active soft matter. For this postdoc position, the candidate will pursue several projects based on joint funding with Professors Alison Patteson and Jenny Ross, namely,
(1) uncovering the emergent, multiscale structure of cellular collectives, down to the chromatin scale, and how such systems adapt under high compression,
(2) determining how liquid–liquid phase separation forms, reorganizes, and potentially adapts, in nonequilibrium, enzymatically active environments.
Therefore, candidates with backgrounds in soft matter physics, statistical physics, biological physics, complex systems, machine learning for physical systems, applied mathematics, or related disciplines should apply.
Please see jmschwarztheorygroup.org for additional details about ongoing work in the group, including answering questions such as “Can sand learn?” and “How do cancer cell collectives learn to remodel their extracellular matrix to enable breakout?” There will also be opportunity for collaboration with other faculty, students, and postdocs in the Syracuse Soft and Biological Matter Group as well as additional national and international collaborators.
The position will begin preferably in September 2026, and has a duration of one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year.
This position is part of a bargaining unit and is represented by the union SEIU, Local 200United.
Qualifications
- PhD in Physics, or a related field, is required by the time of appointment as well as a background in soft matter physics, statistical physics, biological physics, complex systems, machine learning for physical systems, applied mathematics, or related disciplines.
Job Specific Qualifications
Not Applicable
Responsibilities
- Investigate the emergent, multiscale structure of cellular collectives down to the chromatin scale, and how such systems adapt under high compression
- Study how liquid-liquid phase separation forms, reorganizes, and potentially adapts in nonequilibrium, enzymatically active environments
- Collaborate with Professors Alison Patteson and Jenny Ross as part of joint funding
- Opportunity to collaborate with faculty, students, and postdocs in the Syracuse Soft and Biological Matter Group as well as national and international collaborators
Physical Requirements
Not Applicable
Tools/Equipment
Not Applicable
Application Instructions
Please include a cover letter, a CV, a reference list (that includes a list of at least three letter writers), and a brief description of your research interests.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.
The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University’s 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.syracuse.edu.
About the Syracuse area
Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.
EEO Statement
Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.
Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans
Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military-connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University’s contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class-leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post-9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.
Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community
Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
