Postdoctoral Scholar in Quantum Physics and Network Dynamics

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

BASIC FUNCTION:

Postdoctoral Scholar (Theoretical Physics, Biophysics, Quantum Optics), will have at least a Doctorate of Philosophy in physics, biophysics, quantum optics, nonlinear dynamics, or related field and have at least some experience in an applied area of biology, chemistry, bioinformatics, or biophysics. The individual should be adept at programming for the purpose of analyzing quantitative data and writing related research reports and journal articles. The postdoc will, under the direction of Dr. Kurian in the Quantum Biology Lab (QBL), be responsible for the implementation and simulation of quantum optical and quantum mechanical models of electronic and vibrational behaviors in complex living systems like Physarum polycephalum, performing basic analytics and statistics on the models and contributing to the composition and curation of scientific data and its interpretations. A solid foundation in theoretical physics is preferred, covering statistical thermodynamics, dynamical systems, quantum optics, quantum electrodynamics, and condensed matter. A working knowledge of numerical simulations, the use of symbolic manipulation codes like Mathematica, familiarity with image processing software like ImageJ or CellProfiler, and experience in UNIX-based programming on high-performance computing systems is required. The postdoctoral scholar should also have a basic knowledge in biophysics and experience in interdisciplinary collaboration with biologists. Duties and responsibilities include developing models and quantitative predictions to interpret wet lab experimental outcomes and suggesting new experimental tests when needed. Must be able to interact with and train younger or less experienced collaborators, QBL interns, and provide logistical, administrative, and pedagogical support where and when necessary

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY

Involves no responsibility or authority for the direction of others.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Internal contacts include assistant/associate deans, directors, department heads/chairs, faculty, staff and students at the College and school levels; and, deans, directors and executive level officers at University level. External contacts include governmental agencies such as Federal and the District of Columbia Agencies, scientific and technical professionals, students, collaborators, and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Participates in academic, didactic, and professional training provided through seminars, workshops and direct meetings with grant faculty.
• Coordinates and assure development of pertinent reports and their timely delivery.
• Conducts data collection, statistical analysis, and data interpretation responsibilities relevant to the grant portfolio.
• Participates in grant writing, development of manuscripts and reports, and conduct of primary and secondary data analyses.
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time by the PI, especially those related to research, mentoring, and interdisciplinary projects.
• Performs other related administrative and technical duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated technical computing experience and knowledge, including open-source and commercial software packages such as Python, PyMOL, Mathematica, Intel MKL, Gaussian, Quantum Espresso, etc.
• Competence in both oral and written English and ability to articulate concisely and in a professional manner. Ability to maintain confidentiality of information. Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented interdisciplinary and international environment.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in physics, biophysics, computational sciences, or related field and have at least 3 years experience in the area of biology, chemistry, bioinformatics, or biophysics.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$44,000- $54,000