Join the AID Lab — open positions for Ph.D. students and postdocs
We are looking for Ph.D. students and postdocs with a background in physics, applied math, complex systems, or machine learning. As an interdisciplinary group, we highly value curiosity, independence, and a willingness to read broadly and learn from others not in your immediate field.
Apply to UR Physics by December 15.
Apply to the University of Rochester Department of Physics & Astronomy Ph.D. program through the online application — the deadline is December 15. Mention Yuanzhao in your statement of purpose, and feel free to email him first with a paragraph about what you're curious about.
Open to applications now.
Yuanzhao welcomes postdoc inquiries on a rolling basis. Email him a short note on what you'd like to work on, along with a CV. If you're applying for your own fellowship, he's glad to host and help shape the proposal.
Independent study and summer research.
Enrolled UR undergrads can join for independent-study credit during the year. For the summer, the university funds research through the Schwartz Discover Grant and the department's research opportunities.
FAQ
Physics, applied math, computer science, or a related field. We care more about curiosity and a willingness to read across disciplines than about a specific toolkit.
No — we will teach you what you need. Likewise, you do not need a deep dynamics background. You do need to be comfortable being uncomfortable: every project in the lab sits on at least one boundary.
Yes, please do — especially if you want to ask whether our interests align. A short paragraph about what you have been thinking about is more useful than a formal CV.
Applications are due December 15 for the following fall. The GRE — both the general test and the Physics subject test — is optional; the committee reads the whole application rather than leaning on scores. If the $70 application fee is a hardship, the department can offer a fee waiver.
Yes, through the university. UR undergraduates can pursue summer research with funding from the Schwartz Discover Grant or the department's NSF-supported REU program, and academic-year research can be done for pay or course credit. Reach out and we'll help you find the right route.