Post-Doc Research Associate

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.

Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.

UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

The mission of the Department of Mathematics is to extend the frontiers of mathematical knowledge and the ways it is used in the real world, to disseminate that knowledge and to train the next generation of teachers and researchers, as well as those choosing careers with industry or government. The Department is committed to building and nourishing interactions with other units across the UNC campus and with academic and industrial partners in North Carolina's Research Triangle region, throughout the State and across the Nation. The Department maintains a strong research program as well as a comprehensive educational program. An active, healthy research environment is essential for training graduate students and enlivens undergraduate teaching by bringing students into contact with new and relevant mathematics, fostering fundamental mathematical skills and appreciation, and encouraging students to become the next generation of researchers and educators.

The Department of Mathematics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill invites applications for a postdoctoral position in geometric optimization and scientific computing, with connections to machine learning and data analysis. The appointment will begin July 1, 2027, for an initial term of one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year. The postdoctoral scholar will work with the Principal Investigator on research at the intersection of optimization, geometry, scientific computing, and machine learning. Potential research directions include optimization for machine learning, geometric methods for data analysis, and efficient algorithms for learning and inverse problems. Research projects will be developed jointly based on the group's interests and the scholar's expertise, with opportunities to pursue independent research directions. The position provides close research mentorship, regular meetings, and support for professional development. The scholar will be expected to teach, participate in the department's applied mathematics community, and have opportunities to collaborate with faculty and students across related disciplines, both within and outside the Department of Mathematics.

A Ph.D. in mathematics, applied mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field by the start date.

Candidates should demonstrate strong research potential and experience in one or more relevant areas, such as optimization, numerical analysis, scientific computing, geometry, or machine learning.

A strong mathematical foundation and experience developing and implementing computational methods are particularly welcome. Teaching experience is preferred.

Applicants must apply online at https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/327468.

In addition to the information requested by the UNC website, applicants should post the following at MathJobs: ( https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/list/29340)

(1) the AMS Standard Cover Sheet (online form), (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) a statement of teaching credentials and goals, (4) a research statement describing your previous work and research interests, and (5) three letters of recommendation; if possible, at least one letter should address your teaching experience.

Note that candidates must apply at both the UNC website and MathJobs in order to be considered for the position. The UNC website will request a list of references. Letters of recommendation only need to be uploaded to MathJobs.

Applications received by December 1, 2026 will get complete consideration. After that, applications will be reviewed on a continuing basis until the position is filled. For inquiries, please contact Prof. Shahar Kovalsky at shaharko@unc.edu, with "Postdoctoral Position" in the subject line.

For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.

Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.