PhD for Nuclear Physics Theory

About our Campus: Hebrew University’s Edmond J. Safra Campus on Givat Ram, in Jerusalem, is a vibrant hub of academic and research excellence nestled in the heart of Jerusalem. Our modern campus boasts state-of-the-art lab facilities, world-renowned faculty, and a stimulating environment that fosters scientific exploration, intellectual growth, and innovation. 

About Our Department: The Racah Institute of Physics, part of the Faculty of Science, is dedicated to high-quality research across a wide range of physics disciplines. Our areas of expertise include nanophysics, biophysics, nonlinear and condensed matter physics, few-body systems, nuclear and hadronic physics, high-energy physics, and astrophysics. We support a diverse group of students at all levels, offering a rigorous undergraduate curriculum and advanced graduate degrees. This commitment to excellence is exemplified by our graduate and Nobel laureate, Prof. David Gross. For more details, visit: https://phys.huji.ac.il/

About Our Research: Symmetries and Algebraic Methods in Nuclear Physics

Research topics include:

• The study of quantum phase transitions in nuclei and related systems.
• Shape evolution, shape coexistence, exotic shapes, and excitation modes in nuclei.
• Persistent symmetries and the emergence of simple structural patterns in complex nuclei.
• Bose symmetries and Bose-Fermi symmetries (supersymmetries) in nuclei.

Job Description: 

The position is based at the Racah Institute of Physics, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel. The initial duration is one year, with the possibility of extension up to three years, depending on the Phd candidate's academic performance.

About the Supervisor: Prof. Amiram Leviatan is a full professor at the Racah Institute of Physics at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His research in nuclear physics theory emphasizes algebraic methods and symmetry in dynamical systems. Prof. Leviatan's work covers key areas such as quantum phase transitions, shape coexistence, and shell evolution within nuclei, along with exploring partial dynamical symmetries. His research contributes to understanding the structural patterns in complex nuclear systems, helping to elucidate fundamental nuclear properties and phenomena. Prof. Leviatan is recognized internationally, collaborating extensively with leading research institutes in nuclear and hadronic physics.

Funding: 54,000-120,000 NIS per year

Your Profile: We are seeking a talented candidate with a strong background in physics for an exciting opportunity. As an ideal candidate, you have:

• Strong Knowledge: A solid foundation in quantum physics, Lie algebras, and group theory.
• Academic Excellence: A B.Sc. in physics or a related field with high average grades.
• Technical Proficiency: Expertise in mathematical methods and proficiency in numerical computational tools.
• Key Attributes: Diligence, hard work, curiosity, and a strong eagerness to learn.

Embracing Diversity: At Hebrew University we believe that diversity inspires creativity, fosters curiosity, and enriches our ecosystem through academic collaboration and cultural exchange. We consider every member of our community an integral part, irrespective of their religion, gender, or ethnic origin.

HUJI is home to nearly 25,000 students across our 6 campuses, including ~2,500 per year representing 90+ countries. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to engage with your peers here on equal ground, in an environment that promotes equity and inclusion, and celebrates the contribution of its talented members.

Application: We welcome your application with all required documents compiled into a single PDF:

Letter of motivation
CV (including a list of publications)
Brief statement of research interests (max. 1500 characters)
Copy of your original academic degree(s)

About Hebrew University: The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI) is one of the world's leading research institutions, consistently ranked as a global top 100 university. Established by luminaries such as Albert Einstein, we’re at the forefront of groundbreaking research, entrepreneurship, and innovation across various domains, including brain sciences, medicine, biomedicine, life sciences, mathematics, agriculture, and more. Our 6 campuses house 100+ research centers, with ~4,000 research projects underway year-round. 

About Jerusalem: Hebrew University is an integral part of Jerusalem, Israel’s capital and one of the most fascinating, diverse cities on earth. Thousands of students from across the globe live in Jerusalem, immersing themselves in its vibrant cultural and culinary scenes, while marveling at the juxtaposition of its 3,000-year-old history and cutting-edge modernity. Students make the most of their spare time by enjoying Jerusalem’s myriad attractions, from restaurants, cafes, and pubs, to dance clubs, museums, theaters, and year-round festivals.