McDonald Institute Theory Fellowship

This position has an initial appointment of two years, with the possibility of a third year, subject to funding availability.

Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

The Department of Physics and the Theoretical Physics Institute at the University of Alberta are inviting applications for the McDonald Institute Theory Fellowships (MITF) in the field of theoretical astroparticle physics and dark matter phenomenology, to work with Prof. Nassim Bozorgnia. Candidates with interests and/or experience in dark matter physics are especially encouraged to apply. Top-ranked applications will be sent to the MI Theory Evaluation committee, who will allocate fellowships. First round offers will be made in January. The position is for 2 years (with a possible 3rd year subject to availability of research funding), beginning in Fall 2027.

The University of Alberta is home to extensive theoretical and experimental particle and astroparticle physics expertise. Information on research activities within the Physics department at the University of Alberta can be found here:

• https://www.ualberta.ca/physics/research/centre-for-particle-physics
• https://www.ualberta.ca/physics/research/theoretical-physics-institute
• https://www.ualberta.ca/physics/research

• Carry out independent and collaborative research in theoretical astroparticle physics, with a focus on dark matter phenomenology.
• Develop and apply analytical and numerical methods to investigate dark matter properties and their astrophysical signatures.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present research fundings at conferences.
• Collaborate with researchers within the group and with national and international collaborators.

• PhD in theoretical physics.
• Record of research excellence.

Application Instructions

Click “Apply Now” and submit the following documents:

• CV
• Cover Letter
• Research Plan

NOTE: The CV should include the list of publications. They should not be separate.

As part of the application process, we invite applicants to complete a short, voluntary demographic survey to support the McDonald Institute's Indigenization, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (I-EDI) efforts. Information collected will support future efforts to promote opportunities to diverse communities. Individual responses will be kept confidential and will have no impact on your candidacy.

To guarantee full consideration, candidates should apply by November 20, 2026. However, applications will continue to be accepted until December 1, 2026.

Please arrange for a minimum of two letters of reference to be sent by email with the subject line “MITF Reference” directly to Suzette Chan at physref@ualberta.ca. For further questions, contact Nassim Bozorgnia at nbozorgnia@ualberta.ca.

This position has a comprehensive benefits package.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Postdoctoral Fellows Association of the University of Alberta.