Postdoctoral Researcher or Senior Postdoctoral Researcher (Ultrafast AMO Theory group)
Other Academic
LSUAM Science - PA - Atomic - Attosecond (Mette B Gaarde (00001924))
0215 J.W. Nicholson Hall
Other Academic
A position as Postdoctoral or Senior Postdoctoral Researcher is available in the Ultrafast AMO Theory group at Louisiana State University. The candidate selected will participate in theoretical studies of attosecond electron dynamics in complex environments, such as molecules embedded in solvents, electrons interacting with phonons in solids, or chromophores coupled to protein scaffolds. The postdoctoral researcher will be primarily responsible for the development and application of large-scale calculations to investigate attosecond electron dynamics in complex environments, and the expected experimental signatures thereof.
The Ultrafast AMO theory group at LSU includes Profs. Ken Schafer, Mette Gaarde and Francois Mauger in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and Prof. Ken Lopata in the Chemistry Department at LSU. The ongoing grant features close collaboration with experimental attosecond physics groups at Ohio State University and SLAC/Stanford University.
Responsibilities:
Postdoctoral researcher is expected to participate in ongoing research on theoretical studies of attosecond electron dynamics in complex environments. The postdoc will be primarily responsible for the development and application of large-scale calculations to describe attosecond dynamics solvated molecules, with an emphasis on their expected experimental signatures. Additional duties include assisting in the supervision of graduate and undergraduate thesis work in the ultrafast theory group at LSU. The researcher is expected to regularly publish papers in the refereed literature, and to attend at least one professional meeting each year to present results of this research. (100%)
Senior postdoctoral researcher is expected to participate in ongoing research on theoretical studies of attosecond charge migration in molecules. The postdoc will be primarily responsible for the development and application of large-scale calculations to describe attosecond dynamics solvated molecules, with an emphasis on their expected experimental signatures. Additional duties include supervision of graduate and undergraduate thesis work in the ultrafast theory group at LSU. The researcher is expected to regularly publish papers in the refereed literature, and to attend at least one professional meeting each year to present results of this research. (90%). The researcher is additionally expected to conduct independent research which will be determined by its relationship to currently funded research, as well as its potential for opening new avenues of investigation. (10%)
Minimum qualifications: (Both) PhD in physics chemistry or a related field. (Sr. postdoctoral researcher) 3 years of related work experience
Preferred qualifications: Candidates with a background in time-dependent quantum dynamics, quantum chemistry, high harmonic generation, or large scale computation will have first consideration. A familiarity with standard quantum chemistry codes is considered a valuable skill for this position, but is not strictly necessary. Title and salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Please attach ALL required documents under the “Resume/CV” section of your application. Please provide letter of application, resume, and three professional references including name, title, phone number and email address.
Transcripts may be submitted; however, original transcripts will be required prior hire. If the degree is not from the United States, a credential evaluation is required in addition to the official transcripts.
May 28, 2026
September 25, 2026
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
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All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.
For questions or concerns related to updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or email HR@lsu.edu For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact the department using the information provided in the Special Instructions section of this job posting.
