About us

The Center for Theoretical Physics PAS is a research institute focused on theoretical physics, founded in 1980 and located in Warsaw, Poland.

The CTP PAS conducts research in various fields of physics, including quantum information, space and gravity, semiconductors, and atomic gases. The Institute's strategy is to employ the strongest scientists, giving them freedom of research. This has resulted in high standing in Poland, world-class publications (Nature, Science), many grants (~30 projects), and participation in international consortia. In terms of citations per researcher, CTP PAS ranks among the leading institutions in Polish physics.

CTP PAS organizes scientific events, including seminars, workshops, and conferences open to the public, and creates educational materials available on its YouTube channel.

About the role

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher (Adiunkt) to join the research group led by Dr. Eng. Patryk Lipka-Bartosik within the project “Thermodynamics of Information Processing: From Theory to Applications”.

The project aims to bridge fundamental research with potential technological applications in information thermodynamics — an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of information theory, stochastic thermodynamics, and quantum physics.

• Thermodynamic computing: developing physics-inspired alternative models of computation to reduce energy consumption in information processing and machine learning (e.g., arXiv:2308.15905),
• Quantum phenomena in information processing: exploring how quantum effects can be utilized to process information with improved energetic efficiency (e.g., arXiv:2408.06418),
• Optimization of thermodynamic protocols: designing thermal machines that exploit collective quantum phenomena to achieve higher energy efficiency (e.g., arXiv:2411.00944).

Main responsibilities

• Designing independent research projects,
• Developing and performing analytical calculations and numerical simulations,
• Coordinating collaborations with other research groups,
• Writing and publishing scientific papers,
• Presenting research results at conferences,
• Mentoring MSc and PhD students.

Additional responsibilities may include assisting with the group website or organizing seminars.

About you

Essential qualifications, experience and knowledge:

• PhD degree obtained not earlier than in 2019 (or planned defense before contract start),
• Good knowledge of analytical methods and/or numerical simulations,
• Very good command of English, both written and spoken.

Desirable qualifications, experience and knowledge:

• Experience in machine learning,
• Strong publication record in high-impact journals,
• Experience in international collaboration.

Additional desirable skills and abilities:

• Experience in stochastic and/or quantum thermodynamics and/or machine learning.

What we offer

• Full-time fixed-term employment contract (2 years, renewable),
• Salary: approx. PLN 10,889.50 gross/month (approx. PLN 8,041 net/month), including length-of-service allowance. May include bonuses, awards, or other components according to Institute regulations,
• Scientifically stimulating research environment,
• Friendly and flexible work environment,
• Sharing knowledge and experience,
• Flexible working hours,
• Diverse and inclusive culture, highly valuing teamwork and respect,
• Multisport card subsidy,
• Holiday subsidy,
• Nursery and kindergarten subsidy.

How to apply

Applications should be sent to: recruitment@cft.edu.pl, by 2026-05-15, with the reference number (“PLB/04/2026”) in the subject line.

• Scientific CV with academic background and achievements, including the GDPR clause,
• Motivation letter (max. 2 pages), including past achievements and planned future research,
• Copy of PhD diploma or supervisor’s statement confirming planned defense date,
• Copies of documents confirming scientific or professional achievements,
• Two letters of recommendation from independent researchers evaluating the candidate’s scientific activity,
• Signed Data Privacy Statement EN + PL - GDPR clause.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

How we recruit

We carefully review every submitted application. Candidates whose experience and competencies match our needs are invited for an interview (usually online).

We stay in touch throughout the process, ensuring interviews are friendly, providing feedback, and considering the needs of people with disabilities. Feedback motivates us to improve our recruitment efforts.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The CTP PAS operates in an inclusive environment regardless of personal, physical, or social characteristics. Teamwork is highly valued, individual strengths are recognized, and careers are supported.

Equality, respect, and openness are fundamental values. We provide a safe and inclusive space for everyone. The CTP PAS has regulations for reporting violations of law and protection of whistleblowers.