Call for Applications – Assistant Professor (Postdoctoral Researcher)

Important dates

• Application deadline: December 1, 2025
• Results announcement: by December 31, 2025

Funding source

The position is funded by the project “Thermodynamics of Information Processing: From Theory to Applications”, granted by the National Science Centre, Poland (contract no. UMO-2023/51/D/ST2/02309).

About us

The Center for Theoretical Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences (CFT PAN) is a research institute specializing in theoretical physics. It was founded in 1980 and is located in Warsaw, Poland.

CFT PAN conducts research in various fields of physics, including quantum information, cosmology and gravity, semiconductors, and atomic gases. The Institute’s strategy is to hire top-level scientists and provide them with research independence. As a result, CFT PAN consistently ranks among the leading physics institutes in Poland, with publications in Nature and Science, numerous active grants (approx. 30), and active participation in international research consortia.

The Institute regularly organizes scientific events such as seminars, workshops, and conferences, and produces educational materials published on its YouTube channel.

About the position

We are seeking an Assistant Professor (Postdoctoral Researcher) to join the research group led by Dr. Eng. Patryk Lipka-Bartosik at the Center for Theoretical Physics PAS, within the project “Thermodynamics of Information Processing: From Theory to Applications”.

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

The project focuses on three main research directions:

• Thermodynamic computation: Developing physics-inspired models of computation designed to reduce energy consumption in information processing and machine learning (e.g. arXiv:2308.15905);
• Quantum phenomena in information processing: Investigating how quantum effects can be exploited to achieve higher energy efficiency in information processing (e.g. arXiv:2408.06418);
• Optimization of thermodynamic protocols: Designing thermal machines that utilize collective quantum phenomena to achieve higher performance (e.g. arXiv:2411.00944).

Main duties will include:

• designing and carrying out independent research projects,
• conducting analytical and numerical computations,
• coordinating collaborations with other research groups,
• writing and publishing scientific papers,
• presenting results at conferences,
• mentoring graduate and doctoral students.

Additional tasks may include helping maintain the group’s webpage or assisting in organizing seminars.

For questions regarding the position or recruitment process, please contact Dr. Eng. Patryk Lipka-Bartosik.

Candidate profile

Required qualifications

• PhD degree obtained no earlier than 2019 (or planned defense before signing the contract),
• good knowledge of analytical and/or numerical methods,
• very good command of English (spoken and written).

Desirable qualifications and experience

• experience in machine learning,
• publication record in recognized scientific journals,
• experience in international collaboration,
• familiarity with stochastic and/or quantum thermodynamics.

We offer

• full-time employment contract for 2 years (with possibility of extension),
• salary: approx. 10,889.60 PLN gross/month (approx. 8,041 PLN net/month),
• stimulating scientific environment,
• friendly and flexible working conditions,
• opportunity to share knowledge and experience,
• flexible working hours,
• inclusive culture promoting teamwork, mutual respect, and support,
• benefits such as: Multisport card subsidy, recreation support, childcare support.

Part-time or flexible work arrangements may be considered where possible. Applicants are encouraged to discuss their preferences during the interview.

How to apply

Applications should be sent to recruitment@cft.edu.pl by December 1, 2025, quoting the reference number PLB/27/2025 in the subject line.

Required documents (in PDF format):

1. Scientific CV including education, research experience, and achievements (publications, grants, conference talks), with the GDPR consent clause;
2. Motivation letter (max. 2 pages) describing research achievements and future plans;
3. Copy of PhD diploma or a statement from the supervisor confirming planned defense date;
4. Copies of documents confirming research or professional achievements;
5. Two reference letters from senior researchers evaluating the candidate’s work and qualifications;
6. Personal Data Protection Statement (GDPR clause, EN + PL).

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Recruitment process

All applications are carefully reviewed. Candidates whose experience and qualifications match the position will be invited to an interview (usually held online). Feedback will be provided after the interview process. We ensure a friendly and inclusive recruitment environment, with equal consideration for all candidates, including those with disabilities.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

CFT PAN is committed to providing an inclusive environment regardless of personal, physical or social characteristics. We value teamwork, recognize individual strengths, and support the career development of all employees.

Equality, respect, and openness are core values of our academic community, where diversity is essential for innovation and excellence. CFT PAN has implemented internal regulations for reporting legal violations and protecting whistleblowers.