Thouless Postdoctoral Fellowships support outstanding early career researchers in the field of quantum matter, ranging from condensed matter and atomic physics to materials science and quantum-based devices.  These prestigious fellowships are awarded for a period of three years. Nominees are required to have obtained, or have completed all requirements for, the degree of Ph.D. (or foreign equivalent) in a relevant field before the start of the appointment. They cannot have had more than 24 months of postdoctoral experience from other institutions at the time of appointment. They may not have held a paid or unpaid position on the UW Seattle campus at any time prior to the award. Non-US citizens will be required to prove English language proficiency prior to award. The Department of Physics also offers Dehmelt Postdoctoral Fellowships that can support researchers in any area of physics (see here).

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and are reviewed once each quarter. For full consideration in Autumn 2026, complete applications must be received by October 31, 2026. The application process begins with nomination by a principal investigator working in the candidate's field who has knowledge of their work and its impact using this form. The nominator can, but need not be, the candidate’s PhD advisor. Nominations will be considered as they arrive. Eligible candidates for whom we are able to identify a supporting faculty member of the UW Department of Physics, will be directed to submit an application through Interfolio. The application consists of a curriculum vitae with a full list of publications, 2-4 letters of recommendation, and a research statement (2-3 pages including figures and a few references). Inquiries can be directed to physpostdocfellows@uw.edu.

A list of Thouless fellows can be found here.