Postdoctoral Fellow, Physics, College of Arts & Sciences

The High Energy Physics (HEP) group in the Department of Physics at the University of Cincinnati seeks candidates for a post-doctoral fellow position to develop novel techniques incorporating machine learning in particle physics event generators. The individual hired will help lead the development of machine learning driven techniques in the Pythia 8 event generator, with a focus on hadronization phenomenology and the speed up of hadronization simulations in Pythia 8, as part of the MLhad collaboration effort. The position will be preferentially based at Cincinnati, OH, with the possibility of longer stays at Fermilab, IL and/or CERN in Geneva, Switzerland.

• Conduct research in a particular field within the pre-determined research scope and methodology
• Gather and analyze data and develop new ideas that promote current research.
• Prepare data summaries, reports, manuscripts and presentations of research results.
• Participate/assist in manuscript writing for publication in scientific journals and/or presentation; may assist in grant writing.
• Keep informed of developments in field to maintain and enhance professional expertise.
• May teach techniques to others, train, and mentor junior research staff.
• Engage in appropriate training and professional development opportunities.
• Play an active role in seeking career and research advice, both from the faculty supervisor and from other faculty members as well.
• Perform related duties based on departmental need. This job description can be changed at any time.

Doctoral Degree in the appropriate field or discipline, or the recognized terminal degree

• In-depth knowledge of specialized field, process or discipline.
• May require experience with specialized software programs.

N/A

Candidates should have a Ph.D. (or equivalent) in HEP phenomenology or a closely related field, e.g. theoretical, experimental, or computational HEP. The ideal candidate would have experience in: (1) particle physics phenomenology; (2) building production-quality, sustainable, software written in C++ and Python; (3) developing machine learning models; and (4) communicating effectively.

Applications received by December 15, 2024 will receive full consideration, while the position will remain open until it is filled. The initial term will be for three years, with a competitive salary. If funds are available, the term may be extended to a maximum of five years. Further information may be obtained by contacting Philip Ilten, Stephen Mrenna and Jure Zupan via e-mail: philip.ilten@uc.edu, mrenna@fnal.gov and zupanje@ucmail.uc.edu. The University of Cincinnati is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Women and minority candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants will be evaluated on their commitment and contributions to diversity, as well as their appreciation for the University's culture of inclusion and equity.