Job Description
IMSc Chennai invites applications for postdoctoral positions in low energy physics. The call covers statistical physics, soft matter, nonlinear dynamics, complex systems, quantum condensed matter and optics, and quantum information. Apply by 20 October 2026.
At a glance
- Position: Postdoctoral Fellow, Theoretical Physics (Low Energy Physics)
- Where: The Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Taramani, Chennai
- Pay: Rs 58,000 to Rs 67,000 a month, plus Rs 60,000 a year contingency grant
- Duration: One year, extendable by up to one more year
- Apply by: 20 October 2026; reference letters by 30 October 2026
This is an institute fellowship. Fellows do not need to be tied to one faculty member. High energy physics is not part of this call. The page gives no number of posts.
Research areas in the IMSc low energy physics postdoc call
- Statistical physics
- Soft matter
- Nonlinear dynamics
- Complex systems
- Quantum condensed matter and optics
- Quantum information
Fellows are expected to give talks, help run seminars, and take part in teaching and outreach.
Why this role matters
Indian theory postdocs with a fixed call date are rare. Most institutes take applications once or twice a year. This one gives you freedom to choose your own problems, a research grant, and contact with a strong theory group, which helps a lot when you later apply for faculty jobs.
Eligibility
- A PhD in physics or a closely related area
- A strong research record and a proven ability to do research in your chosen area
- IMSc’s general postdoc page says your thesis must be submitted by the time you join; it need not be defended yet
IMSc’s general postdoc page says it accepts applications all year round. This physics call has its own fixed date, so apply by 20 October 2026.
Pay and duration
- Rs 58,000 a month for a fresh PhD, up to Rs 67,000 a month with two or more years of post-PhD experience
- Contingency grant of Rs 60,000 a year, and medical coverage
- HRA of 30% of the fellowship can be paid if you do not take institute housing
- One year at first, extendable by up to one more year
How to apply
Apply on the IMSc physics postdoc portal. Choose LEP as your field. Upload a CV with your full publication list and a research plan. Give at least two referees in the portal; IMSc contacts them directly. Pay and terms are on the IMSc postdoctoral programme page.
Key dates
- Applications close: 20 October 2026
- Reference letters due: 30 October 2026
Please read the official IMSc postdoc call before applying, and browse more postdoc jobs on ResearchJobs.in.
Hiring institution: The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai
Official advertisement: www.imsc.res.in
How to prepare for this application
- Write a sharp research plan. Name two or three problems you can start in your first six months.
- Brief your referees early. Their letters are due 30 October, ten days after you apply.
- Match the faculty. Find IMSc physicists in your area and say how your work links to theirs.
- Prepare a seminar. Shortlisted candidates often present their work; keep a 30-minute talk ready.
- Plan the next step. The post runs one or two years; look at faculty openings on our Find a supervisor page.
About IMSc Chennai
The Institute of Mathematical Sciences was founded in 1962 by Alladi Ramakrishnan. It is a national institute for theoretical sciences, funded by the Department of Atomic Energy. It is a constituent institute of Homi Bhabha National Institute.