Postdoc Research Associate in Experimental Nuclear Physics

Position Title

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities

Required Minimum Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Department/Program & College Description

Department Unit/Website

Application Instructions

Department of Physics and Astronomy

Iowa State University

The position offers an excellent opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher interested in experimental nuclear physics, machine learning, and detector development.

• Contribute to the Iowa State University Experimental Nuclear Group's leading role in the sPHENIX collaboration at Brookhaven National Laboratory, with a focus on heavy flavor and quarkonia physics.
• Focus on Foundation Model development using the sPHENIX silicon tracking system to improve collision data reconstruction as part of a collaborative Genesis Phase I project with Brookhaven National Laboratory and MIT.
• Lead physics analyses, develop innovative analysis techniques, contribute to high-impact publications, participate in international collaborations, attend conferences, and build an independent research profile in preparation for future career advancement.

PhD in nuclear physics, high-energy physics, or closely related field.

• Proficiency in modern programming languages (e.g., C++ and/or Python).
• Experience analyzing large datasets.
• Experience with software-based machine learning, including modern approaches such as foundation models and/or generative adversarial networks (GANs).

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Iowa State University is a nationally recognized research department with strengths in nuclear physics, high energy physics, astrophysics, condensed matter physics, and materials science.

The department fosters a collaborative research environment, partnering closely with Ames National Laboratory and leading national research facilities, while supporting faculty, postdoctoral scholars, and students in conducting innovative, high-impact scientific research.

Researchers benefit from access to world-class facilities, interdisciplinary collaborations, and opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in both theoretical and experimental physics.

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application.

Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of Application/Cover Letter
• Why Choose Iowa State University?

For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Proposed Start Date: September 15, 2026

Number Of Months Employed Per Year: 12 Month

Work Period: Time Type Full time

Pay Grade: Post Docs

Original Posting Date: July 28, 2026

Posting Close Date: August 17, 2026

Job Requisition Number: R19675

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