Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Postdoctoral Scholar will conduct research within the Nuclear Theory Group, focusing on the development and application of microscopic transport models and modern statistical and artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) methods to constrain the properties of dense nuclear matter using heavy-ion collision data.

Major Duties/Respoinsibilities

• Develop and improve microscopic transport approaches, particularly the SMASH transport model, to investigate the properties of dense nuclear matter probed in heavy-ion collisions at energies relevant to FRIB, STAR FXT, HADES, CBM, and related experimental programs.
• Develop and apply advanced computational and statistical methods, including Bayesian inference and AI/ML, to improve transport simulations, accelerate computational workflows, and extract nuclear matter properties through quantitative comparisons with experimental measurements.
• Actively participate in the Group research activities and mentor graduate and undergraduate students in their research projects.
• Disseminate results through publications, conferences, and workshops.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned, which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this job classification.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Strong background in nuclear theory and computational physics.
• Skilled and experienced in at least one of the following areas:
  - Development and application of microscopic transport models for heavy-ion collisions, particularly Boltzmann-Uehling-Uhlenbeck (BUU) approaches.
  - Bayesian inference and parameter estimation for computationally intensive dynamical simulations.
  - Development and application of AI/ML methods to scientific modeling and data analysis.
• Skillful ability  in scientific programming, particularly C++ and/or Python, and familiarity with high-performance computing environments.
• Ability to develop, validate, and interpret computational models.
• Ability to conduct independent research while contributing effectively to collaborative projects.
• Ability and willingness to mentor students and contribute to their scientific development.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present research results clearly to scientific audiences through publications and presentations.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Terminal -Nuclear Physics or related field

Minimum Requirements

• PhD. in Nuclear Physics or anticipate Ph.D. completion by Summer of 2027.
• At least one year of demonstrated research experience in at least one of the following:
  - Development of microscopic transport simulations, particularly BUU-based approaches.
  - Bayesian analysis or statistical inference involving dynamical or computationally intensive models.
  - Development or application of AI/ML methods in computational science.
• An ability to carry out independent and original research as demonstrated by published works in refereed journals and/or conference proceedings.
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by published works and by presentations at conferences, workshops, scientific outreach, and other professional meetings.
• Ability to work with export-controlled technologies.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with the SMASH transport model or other microscopic transport approaches used in heavy-ion physics.
• Familiarity with the physics of dense nuclear matter and heavy-ion collisions at low- and intermediate relativistic energies.
• Experience with Bayesian parameter estimation, uncertainty quantification, or surrogate modeling.
• Experience applying machine learning methods to physical simulations or scientific data analysis.
• Experience mentoring or supervising students in research activities.

Required Application Materials

• CV including a complete list of publications and presentations
• Contact information for at least three references
• Cover letter to address alignment with the group and with low-energy heavy-ion collision programs in the US
• A research statement of which at least 1-page addresses experience, and at least 0.5-page outlines possible future endeavors

Special Instructions

Review of applications begins on 12/1/2026 and continues until the position is filled.

Review of Applications Begins On

12/01/2026

Website

https://frib.msu.edu/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.