We are pleased to host two postdoctoral programs designed to support outstanding early career researchers in physics and quantum matter and information. We aim to build a community of fellows whose knowledge, ambition, talent, and commitment poise them for future leadership in physics and the quantum sciences.
Hans G. Dehmelt Postdoctoral Fellows
The Physics Department at the University of Washington hosts this physics-focused program named in honor of Professor Hans Dehmelt, the first Nobel laureate at the UW. Hans was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1989 in recognition of his pioneering experimental work in the development of methods to trap a single charged ion, allowing measurements of fundamental properties such as the magnetic moment of the electron with unprecedented precision. Dehmelt Postdoctoral Fellowships can be awarded in all areas of experimental and theoretical physics.
David J. Thouless Postdoctoral Fellows
The Thouless Institute for Quantum Matter at the University of Washington hosts this interdisciplinary program named in honor of Professor David Thouless. David was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2016 in recognition of his pioneering theoretical work exploring topological phase transitions and topological phases of matter. Thouless Postdoctoral Fellowships are awarded in the fields of experimental and theoretical quantum matter and information, ranging from condensed matter and atomic physics to materials science and quantum-based devices for simulation, sensing, and information processing. A list of current fellows can be found here.
Applications begin with nomination by an established senior researcher, who is asked to provide a brief statement of why the candidate is suitable for either or both of the above programs. The nominator is also encouraged to suggest one or more UW faculty members, in any relevant department, likely to be familiar with the candidate's field of interest and with whom the candidate might collaborate. If none is provided the committee will work to identify one. University policy requires that candidates have not already worked for more than two years as a postdoctoral researcher prior to starting the fellowship. Suitably qualified nominees will be given directions for submitting a full application. This will comprise a CV with bibliography, two-page research statement, and three letters of recommendation. For fellowships starting in 2026 the nomination deadline is September 22, 2025. Applications received by October 22, 2025 will receive full attention. Short-listed candidates will visit and give a research talk. We expect to make awards in January 2026 with a start date no later than September 2026. The fellowships will have a three-year term with an annual stipend of $84,000 and an annual research fund of $10,000 to be used in support of research and professional travel.
Please complete this form to nominate a candidate. Enquiries can be made to physpostdocfellows@uw.edu.