Position Description

The Physical Mathematics Laboratory (https://www.pml.unc.edu/) in the Department of Mathematics at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our group working at the intersection of fluid mechanics and soft matter physics. Ongoing lines of investigation include pilot-wave hydrodynamics, vibrating bubbles, nonlinear waves, and active matter. We welcome candidates with theoretical expertise, though applications from outstanding experimentalists are also encouraged. The successful candidate will be expected to supervise graduate and undergraduate researchers and to help foster collaborations within and beyond UNC. The position also offers opportunities for professional development, including teaching responsibilities and participation in securing research funding. The postdoctoral fellow will also benefit from being based in the Research Triangle, one of the most prominent research hubs in the US, with three Tier-1 research universities located within a short drive and the Research Triangle Park (RTP) at its center. Further details regarding the position can be found at the following link: https://www.pml.unc.edu/openings

Minimum education and experience requirements: A Ph.D. in mathematics, physics, engineering, or a related field is required at the time of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience: Ideal theoreticians will have strong skills in applied mathematics, including asymptotic analysis, perturbation methods, dynamical systems, and scientific computation. Ideal experimentalists will have strong skills in experimental fluid mechanics, including laboratory design, high-speed imaging, flow visualization, and quantitative data analysis.

Applicants must apply online at https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/310317. In addition to the information requested by the UNC website, applicants should post the following at https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/list/27813: (1) The AMS Standard Cover Sheet (online form), (2) A curriculum vitae (3) A research statement outlining your interests and relevant work (4) Three letters of recommendation. Note that candidates must apply at both the UNC website and MathJobs in order to be considered for the position. The UNC website will request a list of references. Letters of recommendation only need to be uploaded to MathJobs. 

Applications received by January 15, 2026 will get complete consideration. After that, applications will be reviewed on a continuing basis until the position is filled. For inquiries, please contact Dr. Pedro Saenz at: saenz@unc.edu (Include “Postdoctoral Position” in the subject line).

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.