Research Associate in Materials Science and Engineering

Research Associate in Materials Science and Engineering

The Ke Research Group in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Virginia is seeking applicants for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in computational materials science and theoretical condensed matter physics, with a focus on strongly correlated materials, especially rare-earth systems. The successful candidate will work on fundamental research projects in rare-earth magnetic materials, including permanent magnets and quantum materials, with emphasis on analytical modeling, first-principles electronic-structure methods, rare-earth 4f physics, crystal-field effects, high-throughput materials discovery, and machine-learning-assisted materials design.

Responsibilities:

• Develop theoretical methods and computational approaches for strongly correlated rare-earth materials
• Perform and analyze ab initio calculations for strongly correlated systems
• Develop automated workflows for materials screening and property prediction
• Collaborate with experimental and theoretical partners across groups and institutions to interpret results and guide materials discovery
• Prepare manuscripts, present research results, and contribute to project reports and proposals
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students as appropriate

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in physics, materials science, chemistry, or a related field by the start date
• Research experience in electronic-structure theory or computational condensed matter physics, demonstrated by first-author publications

Preferred Qualifications: Candidates with experience developing or implementing computational methods, rather than only running standard DFT calculations, are especially encouraged to apply. Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable:

• Strongly correlated electron systems
• Rare-earth and 4f-electron physics
• Magnetism, magnetic anisotropy, and spin-orbit coupling
• High-throughput computational workflows
• Machine learning for materials discovery
• Development or implementation of novel electronic-structure methods
• Strong programming skills and experience with HPC environments
• Strong written and oral communication skills

Application Procedure: Apply online at

Attach the following documents: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.

Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin on June 13, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. Estimated salary range is $47,500 - $90,000, commensurate with experience. This is a one-year appointment, and the appointment may be renewed contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance. For questions about the position, please contact Liqin Ke, Associate Professor, at View email address on click.appcast.io. For questions regarding the application, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at View email address on click.appcast.io. A competitive salary and benefits package is offered at University of Virginia. For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.