Research Professional

Physicist Position at Enrico Fermi Institute

The Enrico Fermi Institute (EFI) is a multi-disciplinary institute at the University of Chicago that assists with fundamental research in particle physics, astrophysics, geophysics and accelerator physics. It is part of the Physical Sciences Division (PSD). The EFI is also involved in training the next generation of researchers and is committed to creating a supportive environment that encourages teamwork among collaborators from all walks of life.

Job Summary

The Enrico Fermi Institute is seeking an experienced physicist to work on analysis of archival and open electron-position collider data for measurements of the strong coupling constant, extractions of global non-perturbative parameters, testing of high-order perturbative QCD analytic and MC predictions, and probing of mass effects from heavy quarks. The position will also include development of AI/agentic techniques for analysis of electron-positron data and AI research towards closed theory-experiment research loops. Electron-positron data will also be used to make extrapolations to future lepton collider programs. This position is expected to last one year.

Responsibilities

• Develops, designs, and conducts independent research projects including identifying appropriate data samples, and developing and executing data analysis.
• Initiates collaborations needed to carry out analysis work.
• Carries out appropriate literature searches required to understand context of measurements.
• Prepares written papers and makes relevant presentations to disseminate results.
• Reports progress to supervisor and attends team meetings to share results.
• Participates in the preparation and writing of grant applications and reports, and co-authors/authors scientific research manuscripts. Provides peer review of grant applications and scientific manuscripts.
• Fosters a collaborative and supportive research environment.
• Serves as a resource for collecting data and performing analysis. Contributes to facilitating and promoting a research project by providing scientific or intellectual information.
• Leads the contributions to scientific writing and publications, including protocols and grants.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• PhD in Physics.

Experience:

• Background and experience in analysis of hadron, heavy ion, and e+e- collider data.
• At least two years of postdoctoral experience in particle physics or a closely related field.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of basic computer proficiency including computer programs common in particle physics.
• Knowledge of relevant scientific fields.

Preferred Competencies

• Problem-solving, organization, analytical, and coordination skills including attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Work independently and as part of a team and interact with a diverse workforce.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to handle multiple, concurrent tasks within deadline with minimal supervision.

Application Documents

• Resume or CV (required)
• Cover Letter (preferred)
• Reference Checks (preferred)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions. When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Pay Range

$75,000.00 - $88,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

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