Applications are now open for postdoctoral fellowships at Perimeter Institute (PI) to begin in Fall 2011. PI hosts the world’s largest group of independent postdoctoral fellows in foundational theoretical physics. At PI, Postdoctoral Fellows are encouraged to formulate and pursue their own chosen lines of research, across all fields of theoretical physics, within an exceptionally supportive environment. They enjoy ample opportunities to interact with senior scientists, host collaborators, organize workshops and conferences, and participate in the training of graduate students. In addition, a unique mentoring system gives early career scientists the feedback and support they need to become flourishing, independent researchers. PI’s previous postdoctoral fellows have had excellent success in obtaining faculty or permanent positions at leading universities and research institutes around the world.

PI encourages applications from outstanding postdoctoral researchers in: condensed matter theory, cosmology, particle physics, quantum foundations, quantum gravity, quantum information, string theory and other areas of theoretical physics. Postdoctoral positions are normally held for a period of three years, although exceptional candidates may also be considered for senior postdoctoral positions with five-year terms.

Located west of Toronto, in Waterloo, Canada, Perimeter Institute was founded in 1999 as an independent institute supporting research in foundational areas of theoretical physics. Over the past decade, PI has emerged as a leading centre in the areas of quantum information, quantum foundations, quantum gravity, string theory and cosmology. The Institute is now expanding its fields of focus to include particle physics, condensed matter and complex systems, combining insights from the full spectrum of physics within its cutting-edge research programs.

Postdoctoral Researchers will also have opportunities to visit scientists connected with experimental and observational centers such as the Large Hadron Collider; the Planck satellite; VISTA, VLT, the SKA and other observatories; SNOlab and other astroparticle facilities; and LIGO, LISA and other gravitational wave detectors. 

The Institute’s growing research staff currently comprises over 80 resident researchers in addition to visiting Distinguished Research Chairs, including Nima Arkani-Hamed, Neta Bahcall, Gia Dvali, Stephen Hawking, Leo Kadanoff, Ashoke Sen, and Leonard Susskind. The Institute hosts hundreds of visitors and conference participants throughout the academic year, in addition to over 20 graduate students, and 31 Masters level students participating in Perimeter Scholars International.

PI strives to offer an optimal environment for scientific enquiry and discovery, where resident and visiting researchers of all backgrounds pursue diverse approaches to fundamental questions in an atmosphere of intense scientific interaction. Researchers enjoy a collaborative atmosphere and the amenities of our award-winning facility, with excellent support for them and their families. Frequent cultural and social events are held at the Institute for the entire PI community (see Event Horizons to get a flavour of PI’s cultural offerings).

The deadline for applications is November 15, 2010.
 
PI may also nominate exceptional candidates for a Banting Fellowship, sponsored by the Government of Canada. Applicants who may be interested in this opportunity are requested to have their application materials and references submitted by October 15, 2010.

Please email pdfrecruitment@perimeterinstitute.ca with any questions.

Perimeter Institute is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents will be given priority.