Research Fellow in Molecular Quantum Theory

Overview

University College London is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Molecular Quantum Theory Group within the Department of Chemistry. This position is part of a new international project titled Quantifying Utilizable Entanglement in Chemistry from First Principles, developed in collaboration with the Evangelista Group at Emory University in the United States. The successful candidate will work on understanding and predicting the role of quantum correlation and entanglement in chemical processes. Responsibilities include deriving new theoretical models for fermion-fermion and fermion-boson entanglement, studying their stability under realistic chemical conditions, and creating computational methods and software for molecular systems. The role involves an international collaboration with opportunities for research visits to Emory, assisting in the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students, contributing to future project designs, preparing publications, and presenting at international conferences. This fixed-term appointment lasts for 36 months, with an ideal start date in January 2027.

Who can apply

Candidates must hold or be about to be awarded a PhD degree in Theoretical Chemistry, Physics, or a related subject. Applicants are required to have knowledge of quantum mechanics and molecular quantum theory, alongside prior research experience involving quantum chemistry software and scientific programming. Proficiency in English with effective verbal and written communication skills is necessary. Experience with Python and C++ programming or quantum information theory is considered highly desirable.

What you get

The appointment is for a fixed term of 36 months. Initial appointment is at Grade 7 if the PhD has been awarded. If the PhD has not yet been awarded at the start of the appointment, the initial appointment will be made at Research Assistant Grade 6B with a salary range of 40603 to 43749 GBP per annum, which includes a London Allowance of 5301 GBP per annum, and payment will be backdated to the Grade 7 level upon final submission of the PhD thesis.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a CV, a publication list, and a one-page cover letter detailing their interest in the role and the research group.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 26 November 2026. Online interviews are anticipated to take place during the week commencing 7 December 2026.