Heising-Simons Fellows in Quantum Gravity

The Heising-Simons Collaboration on "Observational Signatures of Quantum Gravity" invites postdoctoral applications for up to five Heising-Simons Fellows in Quantum Gravity, to begin around September 1, 2027.

The goal of this collaboration is to bring together theorists from diverse backgrounds to develop theoretically well-founded proposals of quantum gravity and explore their possible observational signatures. We believe that connecting formal advances in quantum gravity to the natural world we live in could result in a true breakthrough. We therefore seek a paradigm shift that brings theory and observation together, helping to close the chasm between quantum mechanics and gravity.

We will tackle foundational issues, effective descriptions, and observational tests of those effective descriptions. We are committed to inclusive excellence and innovation and thus hope to develop a diverse and thriving collaborative community.

• Yanbei Chen (Caltech)
• Ben Freivogel (University of Amsterdam)
• Steve Giddings (University of California, Santa Barbara)
• Cynthia Keeler (Arizona State University)
• Maulik Parikh (Arizona State University)
• Erik Verlinde (University of Amsterdam)
• Kathryn Zurek (Caltech)

Our research interests span quantum gravity, particle theory, string theory, gravitational waves, and astrophysics. The collaboration will feature extended visits between the collaboration hubs, and yearly workshops of all collaboration members to discuss open research questions and progress.

To learn more about the collaboration visit www.qurios.caltech.edu.

The ideal candidate will have technical skills to work in gravity and will be interested in exploring new questions related to possible observability of quantum effects in gravity, manifested in laboratory experiments such as interferometers, cosmological observation, or observation of astrophysical objects such as black holes e.g. via gravitational waves.

The appointment requires completion of a PhD and is expected to start as early as September 2026 with competitive compensation and significant research travel support. The initial appointment will be for two years with expected renewal for a third year contingent on performance review. The salary range for this position is $76,000 - $80,000. The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, experience, qualifications, skills, education, specialty, training, and internal equity.

The QuRIOS Collaboration at Caltech also operates within the vibrant theory community of the Walter Burke Institute for Theoretical Physics at Caltech; for more information, see https://www.theory.caltech.edu and https://burkeinstitute.caltech.edu.

Please address any science questions to Dr. Kathryn Zurek (kzurek), or other collaboration members, and any administrative questions to Carol Silberstein, caroltech.edu.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more.

Caltech is an equal opportunity employer and, as a federal contractor, takes affirmative action to employ qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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