PhD in Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics (Egor Babaev Group) at KTH

Job Description

Prof. Egor Babaev’s group in KTH’s Department of Physics has an opening for a doctoral student in theoretical condensed matter physics. The group uses analytical and numerical methods, from effective field theory and topological solitons to statistical mechanics of phase transitions and quantum many-body techniques. One focus is composite order, including electron quadrupling condensates and topological defects carrying fractional magnetic flux, alongside unconventional phase transitions and methods such as diagrammatic Monte Carlo.

At a glance

• Position: Doctoral student (1 post), up to four years full time
• Subject: Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics
• Supervisor: Prof. Egor Babaev (proposed), babaev@kth.se
• Reference: PA-2026-2710
• Apply by: 7 October 2026
• Apply: 7 October 2026

About the condensed matter theory PhD

• Research new quantum symmetry-breaking and topologically ordered states, including composite order
• Study electron quadrupling condensates and fractional flux topological defects
• Work on unconventional phase transitions with analytical and numerical methods
• Apply newly developed methods such as diagrammatic Monte Carlo
• Collaborate with local and international theory and experimental groups

What to include in your application

KTH asks for certified copies of diplomas, grades and English language certificates (with translations if needed), a CV, a letter of at most two pages on why you want to do research and how it links to your studies and goals, and representative publications or technical reports. Applications must arrive by midnight CET/CEST on the closing date.

How KTH doctoral employment works

Only applicants admitted to doctoral studies can be employed as doctoral students. The first contract is for up to one year and is then renewed for up to two years at a time, adding up to at most four years of full-time study. Up to 20% of working time may go to tasks such as teaching and administration. Applicants need English at the level of Swedish upper-secondary English B/6.

PhD applicants: browse our Find a supervisor directory to see who works in your area.

What KTH is looking for

• A master’s degree, or at least 240 credits including 60 at second-cycle level, or equivalent knowledge
• English equivalent to English B/6

Nice to have

• A strong background in condensed matter theory, field theory or statistical mechanics
• Numerical or programming skills

Pay and location

Doctoral students at KTH are salaried employees, paid monthly under KTH’s doctoral student salary agreement; the advert gives no figure. The post is full time in Stockholm, starting by agreement.

How to apply

Apply through the official KTH page. The closing date is 7 October 2026.

See all our quantum technology jobs, or browse more research jobs on ResearchJobs.in.