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Postdoctoral Research Associate - Computational quantum materials and devices

Northeastern

5 - 10 years

Massachusetts

Posted: 30/06/2026

Job Description

About the Opportunity

SUMMARY

Northeastern University invites applications from outstanding candidates to fill one or more Postdoctoral Research Associate (PRA) positions in computational quantum materials and devices. The initial appointments will be for one year, with the possibility of extension up to three years subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funds. These positions will be in Professor Hai-Ping Cheng research group as part of Northeastern’s broad Quantum Materials and Sensing Institute (QMSI) that includes the Experiential Quantum Advancement Laboratories (EQUAL) located at Northeastern’s Innovation Campus at Burlington, MA.

The PRAs will be closely involved in exciting research on various theoretical aspects of molecular magnets, oxide coating materials for the LIGO scientific collaboration, and other quantum materials, and their modeling and simulation. Projects will include computational discovery of new quantum materials and optical materials and their heterogeneous structures, demonstration and interpretation of their properties, and the development of related sensing devices and applications.

The PRAs will be expected to take full advantage of computational research facilities to develop new methods and techniques. PRAs will be expected to publish in top journals and make presentations at appropriate conferences, supervise research of undergraduate and graduate students assigned to them, assist in laboratory maintenance, assist with the preparation of grant proposals and reports, and take part in other day-to-day research activities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Initiating and executing independent experimental or computational/theoretical research projects under the broad guidance of the faculty supervisors.

  • Preparing research papers, making presentations, and assisting with preparing grant proposals, reports, and other documents.

  • Helping with laboratory maintenance.                                             

  • Supervising or assisting with research of graduate and undergraduate students.
     

QUALIFICATIONS

Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field required, with evidence of high-quality experimental or theoretical research demonstrated through publications and presentations, and strong oral and written communications skills.

Applicants should submit their full CVs and names and contact information of 3 references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position(s) are filled.

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

108S

Expected Hiring Range:

$60,315.00 - $85,192.50

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.

About Company

Founded in 1898, Northeastern University is a globally recognized research university and a leader in experiential lifelong learning, combining academic excellence with real-world experience through its renowned cooperative education (co-op) programs. With 14 campuses across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, a network of over 300,000 alumni, and more than 3,000 industry, academic, and government partners worldwide, the university fosters innovation, research, and global collaboration. Northeastern offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across a wide range of disciplines, emphasizing the integration of data, technology, and human-centered learning to prepare students for the careers of the future. As an R1 Carnegie-classified research institution, it is committed to addressing complex global challenges through interdisciplinary research and impactful partnerships.

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