Postdoctoral Researchers in Category Theoretical Physics, RIKEN iTHEMS (Quantum Phases on the Lattice)

Job Description

RIKEN iTHEMS is hiring a few postdoctoral researchers in category theoretical physics. You will build lattice models of quantum phases from the algebra of quantum field theory. Pay starts at ¥480,000 a month or more, including allowance.

At a glance

• Position: Postdoctoral Researcher, a few posts (ref 26-1454)
• Where: Category Theoretical Physics RIKEN ECL Research Unit, iTHEMS, Wako campus, Saitama, Japan
• Pay: Monthly salary plus discretionary work allowance of ¥480,000 or more, with commuting and housing allowances
• Contract: One year, renewable on evaluation, up to 31 March 2030
• Unit leader: Kantaro Ohmori
• Apply: 30 November 2026 (JST) for the first selection; the post stays open until filled

What the category theoretical physics postdoc works on

• Advance the JST PRESTO project on building lattice models of quantum phases from complete sets of higher structures
• Construct lattice models that realise quantum phases, starting from categorical and algebraic descriptions of QFT
• Generalised and non-invertible symmetries
• Conformal and topological field theory and how they appear in quantum many-body systems
• Tensor networks and other constructive descriptions of many-body systems
• Category theory, higher algebra and algebraic topology
• Take part in interdisciplinary exchange at iTHEMS; part of your time can go to your own research, such as a KAKENHI grant

Why this role matters

Non-invertible symmetries and category theory have changed how physicists classify phases of matter. Turning that abstract work into concrete lattice models is the next step, and it links to quantum simulation. This unit is one of few places built around exactly that goal.

What RIKEN is looking for

• A doctoral degree, or one expected by the start date
• Research in areas such as generalised symmetries, field theory, many-body physics, tensor networks or higher algebra

Nice to have

• Your own research themes that serve the unit’s goals; the advert welcomes them

Pay and location

RIKEN states that the monthly salary plus discretionary work allowance at hiring will be ¥480,000 or more. Commuting and housing allowances are paid, and social insurance applies. The contract is one year, renewable on evaluation up to 31 March 2030, with a two-month trial period. Start is as early as possible. You can apply for MEXT KAKENHI grants. The Wako campus has on-site daycare.

How to apply

Apply through the official RIKEN page. The closing date is 30 November 2026 (JST) for the first selection; the post stays open until filled. Apply through Academic Jobs Online. Upload a cover letter, a CV with “26-1454” in its notes, a publication list, a research statement and a research plan (two pages each), a one-page interdisciplinary statement, a signed consent form, and two recommendation letters. Applications that arrive by 30 November 2026 (JST) are reviewed first.

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