Seeking a Research Scientist or a Senior Research Scientist (Indefinite-term) (26-1024) Full-time

Research Scientist or Senior Research Scientist

We aim to elucidate the origins of nucleon spin and mass by conducting theoretical studies of high-energy quantum chromodynamics (QCD) with various experiments, including the Electron Ion Collider (EIC). We also seek to pioneer research into multiscale quantum dynamics across different physical scales, generating significant spillover effects in fields such as condensed matter physics and computational science.

You will conduct theoretical research on the various dynamical properties of QCD, providing a unified overview of the theory across all energy scales — from the low-energy non-perturbative regime analyzed in lattice QCD to the high-energy regime described by perturbative QCD. In addition, by integrating these theoretical insights with experimental data, you will deepen the understanding of the unique dynamical properties of QCD and uncover fundamental mysteries regarding the nature of matter. Additionally, you will work closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) to establish a research team and promote collaboration with the QCD research community in Japan.

The successful candidate is expected to conduct research and development on topics specified above and to contribute to the management of the laboratory. The position at the time of hiring will be determined through the selection process.

Doctoral degree (or equivalent research ability and background) in the relevant research field. At least 7 years of experience post-doctoral degree.

RIKEN Wako Campus (2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198) RIKEN may order the employee to change work locations, if necessary. Potential sites of relocation: Any campus, branch, or office as ordered by RIKEN.

This post is an indefinite-term employment position. Mandatory retirement age for FY 2025 and FY 2026 is 62 years old. Note: RIKEN has been increasing the mandatory retirement age by one year every two years from FY 2023. There is a Special Temporary Employment Program that allows employees to be rehired and continue working until age 65.

In principle, the first two months of employment are considered a trial period.

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 total amount of monthly discretionary work allowance and monthly salary at the time of hiring will be 670,000 JPY or more for Senior Research Scientist, and 640,000 JPY or more for Research Scientist.

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).

RIKEN may require changes of responsibilities, job category, and work place based on RIKEN regulations due to management decisions, budgetary situation, and organizational restructuring.

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.

All the application documents should be prepared in English. (Only letters of recommendation may be either in English or in Japanese)

1. Complete CV or CV

2. List of research achievements and publications (including INSPIRE Citation Data or equivalent information (such as ResearcherID or Google Scholar ID), if available)

3. Lists of external funds received, awards received, and other achievements including contribution to society through activities in scientific societies, joint research projects, technology transfers, and the like.

4. Outlines of your research and development projects to date (2 pages, A4 size)

5. Your future research and development plans and perspectives if you are accepted for the position (3 pages in A4 size in total)

6. Your major papers (maximum number: 5)

7. 2 letters of recommendation

The file name of the PDF should contain your contact email address.

After you upload the PDF file, please let us (trip-jinji@ml.riken.jp) know the file name of the uploaded file.

Letters of recommendation must be submitted directly by the referees to the following link with the subject line “High-Energy QCD Theory Research Team Fundamental Quantum Science Program research scientist or senior research scientist [applicant's name] (Letter of recommendation)”. Please specify the applicant's name, and the referee's name and contact information in the letter of recommendation.

After the referees upload the letter of recommendation, please let us (trip-jinji@ml.riken.jp) know the file name of the uploaded file. If it is difficult to obtain a letter of recommendation from your supervisor, a letter of recommendation from a third party is acceptable.

There is no set format for the letters of recommendation, but they must meet the following conditions: they must be addressed to the President of RIKEN, Makoto Gonokami, and include the date of issue. Please specify the referee's contact information (Name, affiliation, job title, phone number, and email address).

If a confirmation email is not received within 7 days after submission, please contact: trip-jinji@ml.riken.jp.

Note: None of the submitted documents will be returned.

September 30, 2026 (application to reach RIKEN by this date)

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.

After application documents are screened, only the successful candidates will be asked to have an interview. There will be a final interview with RIKEN executives as part of the hiring process.

The notification of hiring decision (conditional offer of employment) regarding this selection shall be carried out through the presentation of Statement of Working Conditions or a Conditional Offer of Employment issued by RIKEN.

RIKEN expects that the successful candidate will be able to take up this position at the earliest opportunity after February 1, 2027. Other conditions at the time of appointment will be negotiable.

TRIP Promotion Division, RIKEN Email: trip-jinji@ml.riken.jp

Note: No inquiries on the selection process and results will be answered.