Research Associate in Topological Matter

Location: South Kensington Campus

About the role

We are looking for a postdoctoral Research Associate in Topological Matter to explore topological phenomena in condensed matter physics beyond the confines of electronic band theory. The potential focus areas include (but are not limited to) interacting quantum materials, driven and open quantum systems, and nonlinear and time-modulated metamaterials.

As part of this position, you will join Imperial’s Theory of Topological Matter group led by Dr Frank Schindler in the Department of Physics. Here you will have the opportunity to assist with the supervision of PhD and Master students, host visitors, and co-organise workshops.

In addition to the Theory of Topological Matter group, you will become a member and be actively involved in events of the Matter Community at the Department of Physics, which includes experimental and theoretical scientists across condensed matter, ultracold atoms, and metamaterials.

You will have significant freedom in choosing your own research agenda and cultivating collaborations both on a national and international level. This posting comes with dedicated funding for travel and equipment.

What you would be doing

You will carry out independent research projects and collaborate with members of our research group. Your specific research projects will be highly flexible; we will decide on them together based on the evolving research landscape and your skills and preferences.

You will submit research articles to peer reviewed journals and present them at conferences. Your other activities will include assist with the supervision of  PhD and master students, as well as hosting visitors.

You will also be encouraged to make use of Imperial’s excellent resources for your professional development offered by the Postdoc and Fellows Development Centre.

What we are looking for

We expect you to have

• A PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics or related discipline
• A track record of peer-reviewed publications
• Experience with research on topological phases of matter
• Experience with relevant methods such as second quantisation, diagonalisation of Hamiltonian matrices, numerical simulations, and LaTeX

What we can offer you

• An engaging research environment with the space and time needed to carry out your research agenda and collaborate with the group
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).

Further Information

More information about the Department of Physics, the Matter Community and the staff benefits that we offer can be found on our webpages.

This post is available for 24 months, with flexible start date before 31 October 2026.

If you require any further details on the role please contact:

Dr Frank Schindler email f.schindler@imperial.ac.uk.

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