PhD Position in Solving Quantum Field Theory

The Quantum Field Theory group of Professor Francesco Sannino at the Quantum Theory Center (QTC) hosted by the Department for Mathematics and Computer Science (IMADA) and the Danish Institute for Advanced Study of the University of Southern Denmark invites applications for one PhD position. 

The starting date should by end of summer 2026. The Doctoral program is for three years. 

Outstanding candidates should have a master’s in theoretical physics with proven experience in these areas of research: 

• (Quantum) Gravity: Rigorous approaches to (quantum) gravity from effective quantum metric descriptions to string theory, precise results in (quantum) black hole and wormhole physics including entanglement. 
• Quantum Field Theory: Conformal field theory and/or conformal window of gauge theories, exact results in semiclassical methods, effective field theories, renormalization group, high order perturbation theory, higher symmetries.
• Lattice Field Theory: Conformal window and near conformal dynamics of strongly coupled theories, novel lattice methodologies (including applications of quantum computing and artificial intelligence), lattice field theory for standard model physics and beyond including matter in extreme conditions. 

The positions are funded by the Carlsberg Foundation through the Semper Ardens grant Solving Quantum Field Theory held by Professor and Director Francesco Sannino and the candidates are expected to work on the topics related to the project. 

We recommend that as an international applicant, you take the time to visit Work in Denmark where you will find information and facts about moving to, working and living in Denmark, as well as the International Staff Office at SDU.

Further information
For more information about the position, please contact Professor Francesco Sannino, sannino@qtc.sdu.dk.

If you experience technical problems, please contact hcm-support@sdu.dk.  

Application, salary etc.
Appointment as a PhD Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period.(the 5+3 programme).

Further information about salary and conditions of employment.

The person employed in the position may, based on a specific individual managerial assessment, be exempted from time registration, also known as a self-organiser.
Interviews and tests may be part of the overall evaluation.

Further information about the PhD programme at the Faculty of Science can be found at the homepage of the University.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background. 

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:

• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages) .
• Detailed CV, including personal contact information and date entries
• Copies of diplomas, Bachelor as well as Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades.
• The names and complete contact details (phone numbers and e-mail) of at least two referees details for at least 2 referees who can vouch for your skills.   

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process. Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. This also applies to reference letters.

Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university.

Applications should be sent electronically via the link "Apply now". The faculty expects applicants to read the information "How to apply for a position at SDU" before applying. Please note that the application documents should be in pdf-format and attached as three documents: motivation letter, CV and the remaining documents.

We recommend that as an international applicant you take the time to visit Work in Denmark where you will find information and facts about moving to, working and living in Denmark, as well as the International Staff Office at SDU.

About SDU
The University of Southern Denmark was established to create value for and with society. Whether our contributions come in the form of excellent research, innovative solutions, education or learning, we must make a positive difference to society and contribute to a sustainable future. We do this by cultivating talents and creating the best environments for research and learning. It is therefore crucial that SDU retains, develops and recruits talent. At the same time, we need to ensure consistently high quality in all our activities – and we can only do that with the right people. The University’s researchers, lecturers, students, managers and technical/administrative staff are the foundation of our success.