Post-Doc Research Associate

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Posting Details

Posting Open Date 11/24/2025 Application Deadline Open Until Filled Yes Position Type Postdoctoral Scholar Position Title Post-Doc Research Associate Vacancy ID PDS004724 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work Location Chapel Hill, NC Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range Proposed Start Date 01/01/2026 Estimated Duration of Appointment 12 Months

Position Information

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit Our primary mission is providing instruction of the highest quality in physics and astronomy to undergraduate and graduate students at UNC-CH. Training in physics is fundamental among the natural sciences because it provides understanding of the forces governing the structure of matter, from subatomic particles to the large-scale structure of the universe.

Our departmental instructional mission spans all segments of the student community. Over 60% of all college graduates from UNC-CH have taken a course in our department. Among them: undergraduate liberal arts majors who should master the power of quantitative reasoning; undergraduates seeking a degree in another of the natural sciences, who need physics as a foundation for their advanced scientific training; the small number of undergraduates who major in physics, to whom we provide broad and rigorous training. Our graduate education and research advances frontiers of knowledge at the two extremes of space and time, from the very small) the realm of particle physics) to the very large (the realm of astronomy, while expanding the boundaries of knowledge in the many subfields spanning length scales between. Forefront physics and astronomy research requires access to well-equipped laboratories and extensive computing capabilities; it also must be supported by comprehensive and accessible library collections. Again, in research at this advanced level, the bridging aspect of physics provides basic interdisciplinary insight for many other sciences.

This instructional mission is supported by a strong managerial, administrative, and technical staff. Duties of these employees range from budget planning and management for the numerous research grants held by faculty in the department to maintaining course and student records. These activities are usually accomplished in a standard 40- hour week schedule. Position Summary The computational materials research group led by Dr. Mengen Wang is seeking a postdoc researcher to work on computational materials. The postdoc researcher will perform DFT calculations and develop methods to accelerate the design of defects in semiconductors. This position offers exciting opportunities to collaborate with experiment and theory groups. Candidates should be able to work both independently and collaboratively and contribute to a positive research group environment. The candidate is required to have experience with DFT calculations and a strong publication record. Experience with quantum defects and/or machine learning methods like machine learning interatomic potentials is a preferred qualification.

This preferred start date is January 2026 and can be negotiated. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years based on performance.

A complete application includes (1) a cover letter summarizing the applicant's qualifications, research interests, and suitability for the position, (2) a complete CV, (3) a list of at least three references, and (4) unofficial BS and PhD transcripts. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Minimum Education and Experience Requirements PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related area Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience Strong background in solid-state physics and publication records in computational materials

Excellent written and verbal communication skills Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience Experience in the development and implementation of machine learning models Special Physical/Mental Requirements Special Instructions For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here Quick Link https: // unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/309911

Posting Contact Information

Department Contact Telephone or Email [email protected] Postdoctoral Affairs Contact Information If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to [email protected].

Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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