Description

Description: The Laboratoire d’Annecy de Physique Théorique (LAPTh, CNRS/Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc) invites applications for one Master internship followed by a fully funded PhD position in theoretical physics, focused on quantum gravity and cosmological applications. The student will investigate connections between fundamental theory and cosmology, with particular interest in accelerated expansion and the origin of dark energy within string theory and M-theory. The project combines analytical approaches with AI for science, including opportunities to develop new methods and algorithms inspired by physical principles, with applications within and beyond quantum gravity.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a strong background in theoretical physics. Internship applicants should be completing a Master's degree in Theoretical Physics or an equivalent programme, and must complete the degree by the PhD starting date. Applicants for the PhD only should hold, or expect to obtain by September 2027, a Master's degree in Theoretical Physics or equivalent. Basic programming skills and familiarity with AI and machine learning are welcome but not required. The emphasis is on a solid physics foundation and an interest in learning new methods during the project. Knowledge of French is not required.

Research Environment and Supervision: The student will join the Mathematical Physics group at LAPTh, supervised by Dr. G. Bruno De Luca. A postdoctoral researcher will be recruited at the same time and will work closely with the student, contributing to a growing research team. The project is funded by the Multidisciplinary Institute for Artificial Intelligence (MIAI), offering opportunities for interaction with researchers in fundamental physics, mathematics and AI. The position provides dedicated computing resources, support for conferences and research visits, and a vibrant research environment with strong regional and international connections. The laboratory is located in Annecy, in the French Alps, about 45km from Geneva. Its proximity to CERN offers further opportunities for scientific exchange and collaboration.

Terms of Employment: The Master internship is funded and will last up to six months, starting in Spring 2027. It will be followed by a three-year PhD starting in September 2027, with some flexibility possible. PhD funding is already secured, under a standard Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc doctoral contract with the usual salary and social benefits. Continuation from the internship to the PhD is expected automatically, subject to satisfactory performance.

Application Procedure: Interested candidates are invited to apply in English via AcademicJobsOnline, including: 

(i) a cover letter; 

(ii) a CV; 

(iii) bachelor’s and master’s transcripts; 

(iv) at least one recommendation letter submitted directly by the referee.

Please specify in the cover letter whether you are applying for the internship and PhD together, the internship only, or the PhD only.

Applications, including recommendation letters, received by 15 November 2026 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until filled. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a remote interview.

About LAPTh: LAPTh is a joint research unit of CNRS and Université Savoie Mont Blanc. Its scientific activities span mathematical physics, particle physics, cosmology and astroparticle physics.

Contact: For informal inquiries, contact Dr. G. Bruno De Luca at bruno.deluca@lapth.cnrs.fr