Home Page of Dr. Oleg Rubel

Current job opportunities

(several opennigs) PhD Student(s) in Material Science and Material Engineering

Project: Students will be given an opportunity to apply their knowledge, expertise, and initiative to one of three research projects of their preference: (1) Development of computational tools for characterizing topological properties of quantum materials in a high-throughput manner, (2) Closing the gap between theory and experimental verification of the geometric phase of Bloch states in topological bands of quantum materials, (3) Developing approaches to assess the robustness of topologically protected states under realistic conditions of materials deployment.
Skills: The selection process will prioritize candidates based on their qualifications and research potential. To strengthen your application, please ensure that your cover letter addresses the following criteria with specific examples:
  • Understanding band theory, electronic structure, and quantum mechanics at least at the level of C. Kittel's "Introduction to Solid State Physics" or better yet, N. Ashcroft and N. Mermin's "Solid State Physics"
  • Familiarity with the properties of quantum materials and the theoretical frameworks of topological states
  • Advanced programming (Python and Fortran) with a focus on scientific computing
  • Computational physics algorithms and numerical methods for simulating quantum materials
  • High-performance computing, Linux-based supercomputing, and parallel computing.
  • Ability to develop, test, and maintain computational tools, including version control (e.g., Git)
Dates: Starting dates - Sep 2025 (preferred) or Jan 2026 (at latest), duration - 4 years. Applications should be submitted no later than 8-9 months before the anticipated starting date to allow for meeting administrative deadlines.
Application: Please send a cover letter, resume/CV, a copy of the official transcript of academic work completed to date, and an English language certificate (if applicable) to rubelo[-at-]mcmaster.ca. The cover letter should include a brief outline of reasons for interest in the position, as well as reflect on qualifications in light of specific skills listed above. Begin the subject line with [MSE PhD]. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until all positions are filled.
Inclusion: Applications from candidates of all races, ethnicities, genders, socio-economic backgrounds, and those who have been historically underrepresented in higher education are actively encouraged.

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