POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE IN THEORETICAL PHYSICS GRADE 7

The University of Liverpool is seeking to appoint a highly motivated individual, to work on theoretical aspects in its growing programme on precision muon physics, supported through funding from a Leverhulme Trust International Professorship. The position will be in the research cluster Fundamental Particle Physics in the Department of Mathematical Sciences which is part of the School of Physical Sciences.

The comparison of the Standard Model (SM) prediction of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, g-2, with its experimental measurement, shows a tantalizing discrepancy. Liverpool is strongly involved in the g-2 experiment at FNAL and has, for many years, been a leader in the data-driven calculation of the hadronic contributions to g-2 which limit the accuracy of the SM prediction. Future improvements of the e+e- to hadron cross section measurements which are underlying the SM prediction require Monte Carlo generators with accurate radiative corrections, beyond what is currently available. Liverpool is also involved in the development of the MUonE experiment at CERN, whose success will require new state-of the-art radiative corrections and simulations.

We are looking for a candidate with a PhD in (theoretical) physics and a track record in the development of Monte Carlo generators. Experience with QED radiation and resummation techniques will be beneficial. The successful candidate will carry out theoretical research and Monte Carlo development for the description and simulation of low energy hadronic cross sections and other processes relevant for Liverpool¿s muon precision programme, such as muon-electron scattering. While the work will be mostly theoretical, there is direct collaboration between the theoretical physics and the experimental HEP groups. The candidate will benefit from the wide expertise of both groups and have the opportunity to contribute to the development of the longer-term particle physics programme in Liverpool. The post is available for two years to start as soon as possible.

Any applicants who are still awaiting their PhD to be awarded should be aware that if successful, they will be appointed at grade 6, spine point 30.  Upon written confirmation that they have been successful in being awarded their PhD, they will be moved onto grade 7, spine point 31 from the date of their award.

The University has the right to close the vacancy early if it is deemed that there have been enough applications received