Projet: “Non-Unitary Quantum Field Theory”

The Advanced ERC grant project  NuQFT focusses on the understanding of the physical and mathematical aspects of non-unitary quantum field theories in 1+1 dimensions. Subtopics of interest include Logarithmic conformal field theory, sigma models on supergroups, Liouville theory, the Bethe-ansatz for super spin chains, lattice models for the Integer quantum Hall plateau transition (and other classes of topological insulators), and statistical loop models.

A PhD  position will be open to work on this project with the PI, Dr H. Saleur, starting summer 2016. The topic will be the study of integrable quantum spin chains with orthosymplectic symmetry and of the related super sphere sigma models. Potential applications will include, in particular, the study of  phase transitions in certain universality classes of topological insulators.

Candidates with a strong theoretical   physics background are encouraged to apply. To do so, please send a cover letter and a CV to with ERC-PhD as subject. Please do not have letters of recommendation sent until you get a reply expressing interest.

In addition to a full graduate student stipend, the position will include a comfortable travel package.