Brookhaven National Laboratory

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Upton, NY Full time

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The Brookhaven National Laboratory Physics Department has an opening for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PRA) in the Theory Group of the RIKEN BNL Research Center as part of BNL's Nuclear & Particle Physics Directorate. The Theory Group conducts broad research related to the ongoing (sPHENIX) and future (Electron-Ion Collider, EIC) experiments at BNL, including studies of the nucleon structure, QCD spin physics, small-x physics and non-perturbative methods in quantum field theories. A successful candidate will work under the direction of Yoshitaka Hatta, Leader of the RBRC Theory Group, and have opportunities to collaborate with the members of BNL’s High Energy and Nuclear Theory groups.

The appointment is for a duration of two years, with a flexible start date between January 2, 2026, and October 1, 2026. Applicants must arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent electronically. An electronic link will be provided after the application has been submitted.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Perform research on high energy hadron (nucleus) collisions, nucleon structure

  • Organize and participate in seminars, meetings, and workshops

  • Publish research results and conduct presentations at meetings and conferences

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • PhD degree in Theoretical Nuclear or Elementary Particle Physics

  • Solid background in field theory and practical computational skills in QCD

  • Ability to prepare and deliver oral presentations, as well as write articles in scientific journals

  • Clear and concise verbal/written/presentation communication skills

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Experience with hadron (nucleus) structure physics relevant to the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC) experiment

OTHER INFORMATION:

  • BNL policy requires that after obtaining a PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.

  • Candidates must have completed all degree requirements by the commencement of the employment.

  • Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $78500 - $81500 / year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.

  • Two (2) year term appointment

  • May require domestic and international travel.

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Brookhaven National Laboratory (www.bnl.gov) delivers discovery science and transformative technology to power and secure the nation’s future. Brookhaven Lab is a multidisciplinary laboratory with seven Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, 37 R&D 100 Awards, and more than 70 years of pioneering research. The Lab is primarily supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science. Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA) operates and manages the Laboratory for DOE. BSA is a partnership between Battelle and The Research Foundation for the State University of New York on behalf of Stony Brook University. BSA salutes our veterans and active military members with careers that leverage the skills and unique experience they gained while serving our country, learn more at BNL | Opportunities for Veterans at Brookhaven National Laboratory.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Brookhaven Science Associates is an equal opportunity employer that values inclusion and diversity at our Lab. We are committed to ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a veteran, disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.  BSA takes affirmative action in support of its policy and to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.  *VEVRAA Federal Contractor

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