Postdoctoral Research Associate

About the Role
The project “Open Mirror Geometry for Landau-Ginzburg models, Renewal” (funded by the UKRI), will broadly involve understanding mirror symmetry for Landau-Ginzburg models.

The project’s aim is to build foundations in the open enumerative geometry of Landau-Ginzburg models and contextualise these foundations in mirror symmetry. This open enumerative theory, known as open FJRW theory, is a recent theory developed by Prof. Tyler Kelly and collaborators Prof. Mark Gross and Prof. Ran Tessler.

Open FJRW theory is a generalisation of open r-spin theory. This is a theory that has created enumerative invariants using the moduli space of disks (with some orbifold structure). By carefully constructing this moduli space, one can then define open enumerative invariants as integrals of multi-sections of the so-called Witten bundle. These invariants enjoy a rich structure, and the mirror Landau-Ginzburg model is constructed intrinsically as a generating function of the open FJRW invariants.

This project looks to continue developing this theory or theory relating to it. Potential aspects of this project would use expertise in one (or more) of the following fields: mirror symmetry, homological algebra, symplectic geometry, derived categories, and enumerative geometry.

About You
The successful applicant will have, or soon obtain, a PhD degree in mathematics or related, or equivalent level of professional qualifications and experience, with expertise in at least one of the areas: algebraic geometry, mirror symmetry, enumerative geometry, derived categories, open enumerative geometry, symplectic geometry.

About the School
The School has an exceptionally strong research presence across the spectrum of Mathematical Sciences. It is part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, which comprises five schools and two institutes.

This position is based in the Centre for Combinatorics, Algebra & Number Theory. Other Centres include the Centre for Data Science, Statistics and Probability, the Centre for Geometry, Analysis and Gravitation, the Centre for Dynamical Systems, Statistical Physics and Complex Systems, and the Centre for Mathematical Education.

About Queen Mary
At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable.

Throughout our history, we’ve fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence. And we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it’s simply ‘the right thing to do’ but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.

Benefits
We offer access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ annual leave, a season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. Additionally, we offer a range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies and flexible working arrangements.

Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability. We are open to considering applications from candidates wishing to work flexibly.

Applicants are asked to provide a CV, cover letter, and Research Statement with their application.

The closing date for applications is 15 December 2025.

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