Postdoctoral Associate

Stony Brook University • Stony Brook, NY

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Stony Brook University invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate position in experimental high-energy nuclear physics. The Department maintains a strong research presence in the sPHENIX physics program at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) and the ATLAS physics program at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), as well as in detector research and development for the future Electron-Ion Collider. The successful candidate will conduct data analysis for either the sPHENIX or ATLAS experiment, while also contributing to advanced applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in physics, including generative AI and foundation models. The position is expected to begin in September 2026 and will initially be appointed for a two-year term, with the possibility of a one year extension contingent upon performance and funding.

Requirements

• Doctoral Degree (or foreign equivalent) in experimental nuclear physics, particle physics or a closely related discipline in hand by the start of the appointment.
• Experience in data analysis from a nuclear experiment, such as RHIC and the LHC.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and strong presentation abilities.
• Strong interest in scientific machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Nice To Haves

• Programming experience with C++, ROOT, Python, and GEANT.
• Knowledge and programming experience in scientific machine learning and artificial intelligence.
• Working knowledge of jets and hard probes in heavy-ion collisions.
• Ability to work with theorists on QCD phenomenology.

Responsibilities

• Conduct physics analysis using sPHENIX or ATLAS heavy-ion data.
• Conduct research applying advanced AI methods to nuclear physics, including generative AI and foundation models.
• Collaborate with physicists and computer scientists on research activities and the preparation of scientific publications.
• Present research results at national and international conferences, meetings, and workshops.
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students on the team.
• Work independently and manage time and priorities effectively.
• Demonstrate strong communication and teamwork skills in an international collaborative research environment.
• Other duties or projects as assigned as appropriate to rank and departmental mission.

Benefits

• The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs to learn more about our postdoctoral community.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree