The Foundations of Thermodynamics Group is a newly formed group in the School of Humanities at the Nanyang Technological University Singapore led by Nanyang Assistant Professor of Philosophy Eugene Y. S. Chua. Its goal is to provide a space for research on all aspects of the conceptual foundations of thermodynamics, with particular focus on understanding the conceptual foundations of thermodynamics beyond the classical domain, e.g., in the quantum and relativistic domains, how thermodynamics relates to other non-fundamental domains such as fluid dynamics and neuroscience, and how it bears on questions in philosophy such as (but not limited to) questions about emergence, reduction, inter-theory relations, the nature of non-fundamental reality, the laws of nature, and the relation between symmetries and reality.
The group is seeking applications for a Research Fellow position on a 2 year contract. Successful candidates will carry out research which contributes to the group’s goals, primarily collaborating with Asst. Prof. Chua on ongoing projects while developing their own independent research projects. The ideal candidate will have a PhD in philosophy or physics, a strong research track record, a concrete proposal for a research project related to the Group’s interests, and excellent communication skills.
Key Responsibilities:
- Collaborating on Asst Prof. Chua’s projects
- Carrying out their own research projects
- Planning and organizing events (workshops, conferences, summer schools) for the Group
- Hosting visiting academics
- Presenting work related to the group’s goals at relevant conferences and workshops
Job Requirements:
- PhD in philosophy or physics
- Demonstrable research track record on topics related to the project, such as but not limited to:
General philosophy of science
Philosophy of physics (especially philosophy of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics)
Demonstrable interest or experience in quantum or relativistic thermodynamics is a plus.
Cognate topics in philosophy
Emergence and reduction
Inter-theory relations
Effective realism
Metaphysics of non-fundamental reality
Natural kinds
Conceptual change and conceptual engineering
Symmetries and reality
Application procedure
Please apply by submitting the following documents in Workday:
1) Curriculum Vitae
2) Cover letter
3) Research statement
3) A research proposal outlining in detail at least one research project to be pursued during their time as a research fellow
4) At least 3 letters of recommendation
We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
