24/45362, PhD Position in Theoretical Physics

Centre for Quantum Mathematics (QM) at
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science (IMADA), University of Southern Denmark (SDU) invites applications for a 3-year PhD position with a PhD project in Applications of Generalized Symmetries to Quantum Matter. Targeted starting date for the position is 1 October, 2024.

The project
Symmetry plays a fundamental role in quantum physics. Recent years have seen a paradigm shift in the understanding of global symmetries. This has unravelled new vastly generalized symmetries symmetries. Despite rapid progress, this is very much an evolving subject and both the general theory and its applications to quantum matter host many unresolved questions. The goal of this project is to advance the theory of global categorical symmetries and explore their implications for the phase diagrams of quantum matter. Key objectives include refining the classification of phases of matter using such symmetries, investigating their potential to stabilize fragile quantum states, and exploring whether the corresponding (topological) symmetry operators can encode robust quantum information.

Candidate Profile
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate within the field(s) of theoretical physics with a specialization in condensed matter theory. Applicants can have a background from advanced many body quantum mechanics and graduate level quantum field theory. Some background in mathematics, particularly topology and category theory is beneficial but not mandatory.

Research environment
The PhD project will be funded by a grant from the Villum foundation and carried out within the Centre for Quantum Mathematics (QM). QM is located at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences on the international campus of University of Southern Denmark in Odense, Denmark. QM is established with the ambition to create a highly international and interdisciplinary group within a broad spectrum of pure mathematics and mathematical physics. Odense is a fast-growing international community with an open Scandinavian culture, affordable housing and living costs.
For more information on the QM Centre, please visit https://www.sdu.dk/en/qm.

Further information about The Faculty of Natural Sciences.

Application deadline: 26. Juli 2024 at 23:59 hours local Danish time.