Overview
The University of Geneva is offering a fully funded two-year postdoctoral fellowship as part of Baptiste Le Bihan’s SNSF Starting Grant project titled “Space, Time and Causation in Quantum Gravity.” This opportunity is situated within the Geneva Symmetry Group, which operates under the Department of Philosophy at the university. The fellowship is significant for those interested in the intersections of philosophy and theoretical physics, particularly in understanding the nature of space and time.
Background & Relevance
The philosophy of physics explores fundamental questions about the nature of reality, particularly concerning concepts like space, time, and causation. Recent advancements in quantum gravity challenge traditional notions of these concepts, suggesting that they may not be fundamental aspects of the universe. This fellowship aims to investigate these philosophical implications, making it a vital opportunity for scholars in both philosophy and physics.
Key Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Fellowship in Philosophy of Physics
- Location: University of Geneva, Switzerland
- Project: Space, Time and Causation in Quantum Gravity
- Starting Date: Ideally 1 September 2026, with flexibility for an earlier start from 1 February 2026
- Application Deadline: 15 November 2025
- Salary: Competitive, with access to research funding
- Contact: Baptiste Le Bihan (Baptiste…@unige.ch) for further details
Eligibility & Participation
This position is open to candidates who hold a PhD in philosophy and possess expertise in the metaphysics of spacetime and causation, as well as philosophy of quantum gravity. Candidates with a background in contemporary metaphysics and the philosophy of space, time, and causality are particularly encouraged to apply. The fellowship also welcomes applications from individuals belonging to groups that are currently underrepresented in academic philosophy.
Submission or Application Guidelines
Interested candidates should submit their applications as a single PDF file named [your last name].pdf, which must include:
1. CV with email address at the top
2. Cover letter detailing research interests and experience
3. Research proposal related to the project
4. Writing sample (one article or chapter)
5. Three academic references with names and email addresses
Applications should be sent to baptiste…@unige.ch with “Postdoctoral Application” in the subject line.
Additional Context / Real-World Relevance
The exploration of quantum gravity and its philosophical implications is crucial as it may reshape our understanding of the universe. This research area is not only academically significant but also has the potential to influence various fields, including cosmology and theoretical physics. By addressing how causation might be reconceptualized in a non-spatiotemporal framework, this project could contribute to a deeper understanding of the fundamental nature of reality.
Conclusion
The postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Geneva presents a unique opportunity for philosophers and physicists to engage with groundbreaking ideas in quantum gravity. Scholars interested in this intersection are encouraged to apply, explore the project further, and contribute to this vital area of research.
Category: PhD & Postdoc Positions
Tags: philosophy, quantum gravity, metaphysics, causation, university-of-geneva, research-fellowship, academic-philosophy, space-time, cosmology
