Postdoctoral Researcher Position in Active & Soft Condensed Matter Theory at Harvard University

The Soft Condensed Matter and Active Matter Theory groups in the Department of Physics at Harvard University, led by Professors David Nelson and Sunghan Ro, expect to appoint one postdoctoral fellow beginning in Fall 2026. We seek candidates with interests in soft condensed matter theory, including (but not limited to) population dynamics, hydrodynamics, elastic structures, active matter, and nonequilibrium statistical physics.

Applicants should arrange for letters of recommendation from at least three scientists familiar with their work. Applicants must submit a cover letter including a brief description of past research and future research interests, and may also submit selected preprints or reprints of their publications. All complete applications will be reviewed jointly by the participating faculty.

The successful candidate will work closely with the principal investigators and will receive support with a two-year appointment. Salary will depend on years of experience, training, and qualifications.

Salary Range: $67,600-$80,000.

Applications and supporting materials should arrive by March 15, 2026 for full consideration. However, applications received after this date may be considered on a rolling basis.

Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.

Basic Qualifications: Applicants for this position must have completed a Ph.D. by the appointment start date and demonstrate outstanding research in theoretical active or soft condensed matter physics appropriate to the level of the position. The ability to identify and pursue independent research directions, while collaborating effectively in an interactive research environment, is expected.

Liz Alcock

https://www.physics.harvard.edu/

Harvard Physics Department
17 Oxford Street
Cambridge, MA 02138

$67,600-$80,000

Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.