Postdoctoral Researcher - Theoretical Physics

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 200

United.

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.