PDRA in Modern Methods for Transport in Plasma Physics

Department of Physics, Clarendon Laboratory, Parks Road, Oxford Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Modern Methods for Transport in Plasma Physics. The post is available initially for a fixed-term duration of 2 years with the possibility of extension subject to availability of funds. Holographic techniques connect models of strongly interacting plasmas to weakly interacting gravity in higher dimensions. These methods have been instrumental in providing benchmark estimates, such as the shear viscosity-to-entropy density ratio for quark-gluon plasma. The goal is to utilize existing holographic models and develop new ones, integrating these approaches with experimental and simulation data to better describe real plasmas. At the same time, many-body quantum simulations based on Molecular Dynamics allows for the ab-initio calculation of transport properties. Those simulations can thus be used to guide and verify holographic techniques for the plasma systems under investigation. We seek a postdoctoral researcher to advance the understanding of plasma transport using methods based on molecular dynamics (lattice simulations) and holography. The successful candidate will test predictions from holographic models against experimental data and numerical simulations, develop novel holographic models and techniques, and utilize experimental and simulation data to construct effective plasma models through deep symbolic regression. The post-holder will also have opportunities to teach, which may include lecturing, small-group teaching, and tutoring undergraduate and graduate students. Applicants should hold a PhD, or be close to completion of one, in physics or a related field and have a strong background in computational methods. Knowledge of string-theory techniques is highly recommended. Previous experience (experimental or theoretical) in plasma physics. Candidates are expected to be able to work in a multidisciplinary environment.