Seeking a few Senior Research Scientists, Research Scientists, Postdoctoral Researchers (26-1583) Part-time

Senior Research Scientist or Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Researcher, a Few Positions

RIKEN Center for Interdisciplinary Theoretical and Mathematical Science (iTHEMS) is an international research center at RIKEN. It facilitates close collaborations among researchers from different disciplines in theoretical, mathematical and computational sciences. On April 1, 2025, iTHEMS transitioned from a program to a center. The ultimate goal of iTHEMS is to unravel the mystery of the Universe, matter, and life, as well as to solve key problems in modern society through interdisciplinary approaches.

Division of Fundamental Mathematical Science conducts mathematical basic research through interdisciplinary initiatives centered on mathematics (mathematics, materials, life, space, computing, and information).

We are recruiting several talented researchers in the area of theoretical physics interested in collaborating with researchers from iTHEMS, RIKEN, and beyond.

Successful candidates are expected to promote research in theoretical physics in a broad sense and its related fields, to understand the philosophy of iTHEMS, and to be strongly motivated to proactively engage in research that transcends the boundaries of existing disciplines such as mathematics, physics, and biology.

The job description may be changed during the contract period or upon contract renewal to the extent described above.

The candidate should possess or is expected to obtain a doctoral degree by the starting date.

Work location: RIKEN Wako Campus (2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198). RIKEN may order the employee to change work locations, if necessary, in accordance with RIKEN regulations.

Salary and benefits: A one-year fixed-term employment contract, renewable based on evaluation, to a maximum of the 7 years (Senior Research Scientist) or 5 years (Research Scientist) or 3 years (Postdoctoral Researcher) from the date of hire. Salary will be an annual salary based on experience, ability, and performance, and will consist of a base salary and a variable salary. The variable salary will be determined each fiscal year based on experience, ability, and performance. Discretionary work, commuting and housing allowances will be provided. Social insurance will be applied.

The approximate amount of salary at the time of employment: The total amount of monthly discretionary work allowance and monthly salary at the time of hiring will be 600,000JPY or more for Senior Research Scientist, 550,000JPY or more for Research Scientist, 480,000 or more for Postdoctoral Researcher.

RIKEN has implemented a telecommuting system that allows employees to work from home or other locations permitted by RIKEN. This position falls under the specialized duties discretionary work system; one working day will be calculated as 7 hours and 30 minutes. Days off include Saturdays and Sundays, public holidays, New Year's holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3), and RIKEN Foundation Day. Paid leave includes annual paid leave (up to 20 days depending on the month of employment), special paid leave (caring for a sick child, family nursing care, etc.), and work life balance holidays (up to 7 days depending on the month of employment). There are also additional leave systems such as maternity leave, childcare leave, and family nursing care leave. Smoking is entirely prohibited on site. These and other provisions are in accordance with RIKEN regulations. Mandatory membership in the RIKEN Mutual Benefit Society (RIKEN Kyosaikai).

* Eligible to apply for the MEXT Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (Kakenhi).

* RIKEN is actively undertaking initiatives to promote gender equality and diversity, and moving forward with the establishment of a diverse and vibrant research environment. If multiple candidates are found to have the same aptitude following a fair assessment, active efforts will be made to recruit female candidates.

* The Wako Campus has an on-site daycare, RIKEN Kids Wako. For details, please send an email to kids@riken.jp.

Application documents should be uploaded through Academic Jobs Online. Note: None of the submitted documents will be returned.

Application must arrive by December 18, 2026 (JST).

Submitted documents are strictly protected under the RIKEN Privacy Policy and will be used only for the purpose of applicant screening at RIKEN. Personal information will not be disclosed, transferred or loaned to a third party under any circumstances without just cause.

To ensure a safe and proper environment throughout our recruitment process, RIKEN has established the Guidelines for the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Job Seekers and strictly enforces compliance among all staff members.

On or after May 1, 2027 (Negotiable).

For inquiry, send an email to ithems_saiyou@ml.riken.jp with Subject: iTHEMS Job opening (26-1583).