McDonald Institute Theory Fellowship

This position has an initial appointment of two years, with the possibility of a third year, subject to funding availability.

Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

The Department of Physics and the Theoretical Physics Institute at the University of Alberta are inviting applications for the McDonald Institute Theory Fellowships (MITF) in the field of theoretical astroparticle physics and dark matter phenomenology, to work with Prof. Nassim Bozorgnia. Candidates with interests and/or experience in dark matter physics are especially encouraged to apply. Top-ranked applications will be sent to the MI Theory Evaluation committee, who will allocate fellowships. First round offers will be made in January. The position is for 2 years (with a possible 3rd year subject to availability of research funding), beginning in Fall 2027.

The University of Alberta is home to extensive theoretical and experimental particle and astroparticle physics expertise. Information on research activities within the Physics department at the University of Alberta can be found here:

• https://www.ualberta.ca/physics/research/centre-for-particle-physics
• https://www.ualberta.ca/physics/research/theoretical-physics-institute
• https://www.ualberta.ca/physics/research

• Carry out independent and collaborative research in theoretical astroparticle physics, with a focus on dark matter phenomenology.
• Develop and apply analytical and numerical methods to investigate dark matter properties and their astrophysical signatures.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present research fundings at conferences.
• Collaborate with researchers within the group and with national and international collaborators.

• PhD in theoretical physics.
• Record of research excellence.

Application Instructions

Click “Apply Now” and submit the following documents:

• CV
• Cover Letter
• Research Plan

NOTE: The CV should include the list of publications. They should not be separate.

As part of the application process, we invite applicants to complete a short, voluntary demographic survey to support the McDonald Institute's Indigenization, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (I-EDI) efforts. Information collected will support future efforts to promote opportunities to diverse communities. Individual responses will be kept confidential and will have no impact on your candidacy.

To guarantee full consideration, candidates should apply by November 20, 2026. However, applications will continue to be accepted until December 1, 2026.

Please arrange for a minimum of two letters of reference to be sent by email with the subject line “MITF Reference” directly to Suzette Chan at [email protected]. For further questions, contact Nassim Bozorgnia at [email protected].

This position has a comprehensive benefits package.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Postdoctoral Fellows Association of the University of Alberta.

The Faculty of Science is internationally recognized for excellence in research and education. Through pioneering discovery and innovation, the faculty addresses global challenges across disciplines such as biology, chemistry, computing science, physics, mathematics, and earth sciences. Its work positions the university at the forefront of technological, environmental, and scientific advancement.

The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs and research stations are primarily located on the territory of Néhiyaw (Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Nakoda (Stoney), Dene, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and Anishinaabe (Ojibway/Saulteaux), lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7 and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems and cultures of all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.