Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mathematics

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

2d

About The Position

The Department of Mathematics at Iowa State University invites applications for a postdoctoral position. The successful candidate will contribute to foundational research projects in the Smith Lab at the interface of mathematics, theoretical physics, computer science, and information theory. The position includes a 2-1 teaching load and mentoring undergraduate students through the Iowa State Math Research Teams (ISMaRT) program.

The department is a vibrant academic community with strengths in pure and applied mathematics, offering opportunities in research, teaching, and student mentorship. Faculty maintain active, externally funded research programs across a broad range of mathematical disciplines, in a collaborative environment that supports innovation, interdisciplinary engagement, and student success.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Mathematics or a closely related discipline, completed prior to the start date.
• Demonstrated research experience in algebraic methods of mathematical physics.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of quantum mechanics and quantum information theory.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated research experience in geometric methods of mathematical physics.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of general relativity.
• Experience teaching undergraduate mathematics courses.
• Experience mentoring undergraduate and/or graduate students in research.
• Experience applying advanced machine learning methods to scientific research.
• Experience applying advanced artificial intelligence methods to scientific research.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to foundational research projects in the Smith Lab at the interface of mathematics, theoretical physics, computer science, and information theory.
• Teach a 2-1 course load.
• Mentor undergraduate students through the Iowa State Math Research Teams (ISMaRT) program.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental coverage.
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans.
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans.
• Onsite childcare in Ames, Iowa.
• Life insurance and long-term disability.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Wellbeing program.
• WorkFlex options for some positions, offering flexibility on when, where, and how work is performed.

What This Job Offers

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