Postdoctoral Fellowships at the Kavli IPMU (PD2026)

The Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe (Kavli IPMU), a World Premier International (WPI) Research Center at the University of Tokyo, is an international and interdisciplinary research institute where astrophysicists, mathematicians, theoretical physicists, and experimental physicists collaborate to address fundamental questions about the universe, its origins, evolution, composition, and governing laws.

In recent years, Kavli IPMU has expanded its research through the Center for Data-Driven Discovery (established in 2023), promoting big data research in astronomy and advancements in data science using artificial intelligence and machine learning. The institute also pursues research in Science and Society. We seek postdoctoral researchers who can lead original and impactful research in these areas and are enthusiastic about cross-disciplinary collaboration.

About the role

The Postdoctoral Fellowship is a three-year appointment. Kavli IPMU offers highly competitive salaries, enabling fellows to maintain a high standard of living in a culturally rich and safe environment. Fellows receive start-up funding, including travel support, and are encouraged to travel internationally for collaborations, institutional visits, or conferences—up to three months per year. Comprehensive support for securing external funding is also provided to help build a successful research career.

English is the official language of the institute, and over 70% of full-time researchers are non-Japanese speakers. Kavli IPMU is a vibrant and inclusive international research community, and applications from women are strongly encouraged.

Research areas

• Astrophysics: Cosmic Microwave Background, Survey Astronomy, Observational Cosmology, High Energy Astrophysics, Astroparticle Physics, Theoretical and Observational Astronomy
• Data-Driven Discovery: Simulations of Large-Scale Structures, Big-Data Analysis of Survey Astronomy and Experimental Physics, Machine Learning and AI Applications
• Experimental Physics: Neutrino Physics, Dark Matter Detection, Accelerator Experiments, Detector Developments
• Mathematics: Algebra, Geometry
• Science and Society: Trust in Science, AI-related Research, Science and Technology Studies
• Theoretical Physics: Particle Physics Phenomenology, String Theory, Quantum Field Theory, Quantum Information, Gravitation and Cosmology

More details about research programs can be found here.

Requirements

• Curriculum vitae (including email address and citizenship)
• Statement of research interests
• List of publications
• Three (or more) letters of recommendation

For inquiries regarding the application process, contact academicjob-inquiry@ipmu.jp.