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Applied Physics Lab Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Postdoc Fellow - Imaging Physics

Houston, TX · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

The lab is in a highly collaborative research environment with access to world-class resources ... D. in one of the natural sciences, computer sciences, applied mathematics, engineering, or related ...

The lab is in a highly collaborative research environment with access to world-class resources ... D. in one of the natural sciences, computer sciences, applied mathematics, engineering, or related ...

The lab is in a highly collaborative research environment with access to world-class resources ... D. in one of the natural sciences, computer sciences, applied mathematics, engineering, or related ...

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... As a Mechanical Engineer, you'll leverage your strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and ...

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Applied Physics Lab information

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How much do applied physics lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied physics lab in Texas is $18.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.63 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an applied physics lab?

An Applied Physics Lab is a research facility where scientists and engineers use principles of physics to solve real-world problems and develop new technologies. These labs often work on projects involving electronics, materials science, optics, robotics, and more, frequently collaborating with industry and government organizations. Applied Physics Labs can be found at universities, private companies, and government research centers, and their work often leads to advances in fields like defense, healthcare, energy, and communications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an applied physics lab technician?

To thrive as an Applied Physics Lab Technician, you need a strong background in physics or engineering, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, measurement devices, and data analysis software like MATLAB or LabVIEW is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help technicians excel in collaborative research environments. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting scientific innovation.

What are the typical collaborative projects an applied physics lab professional might engage in, and how do they work with interdisciplinary teams?

Professionals working in an Applied Physics Lab often collaborate on projects that intersect with engineering, materials science, computer science, and even biomedical fields. They regularly participate in cross-disciplinary teams to design experiments, develop prototypes, or solve complex technical problems. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as team members may have different technical backgrounds and project goals. These collaborations not only foster innovation but also provide valuable networking and learning opportunities for lab professionals.

What is the difference between Applied Physics Lab vs Optical Engineer?

AspectApplied Physics LabOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Engineering, or related fields; security clearance often requiredBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; certifications like OSA may be beneficial
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government facilities, defense projectsDesign studios, manufacturing facilities, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, defense contractors, research institutionsTech companies, aerospace, telecommunications, research firms

Applied Physics Labs and Optical Engineers often share credentials and work environments, especially in research and defense sectors. While Applied Physics Labs focus on broad physics research and development, Optical Engineers specialize in designing and testing optical systems. Both roles are vital in high-tech industries, but their specific focus areas differ.

What does an applied physics lab do?

An applied physics lab conducts research and experiments to develop practical solutions using principles of physics. Staff in these labs often work on projects related to technology development, instrumentation, and scientific innovation, utilizing tools like lasers, sensors, and computational models.

What jobs can you get with applied physics?

Applied physics graduates can pursue roles such as research scientist, optical engineer, data analyst, systems analyst, or technical consultant. These jobs often require strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and proficiency in programming or modeling tools.

What job categories do people searching Applied Physics Lab jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Applied Physics Lab jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Applied Physics Lab jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Applied Physics Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Applied Physics Lab job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,879 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Postdoc Fellow - Imaging Physics

MD Anderson

Houston, TX • On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


MD Anderson Cancer Center rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 172 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description

A postdoctoral fellowship position is available in the Department of Imaging Physics in the laboratory of Chengyue Wu, PhD. Dr. Chengyue Wu's research interests focus on computational precision oncology, especially integrating computational/mathematical approaches with emerging biomedical imaging techniques to improve the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of human cancers.

Dr. Wu has extensive experience on developing and validating image processing methods and image-guided models for investigating tumor growth and treatment response, tumor-associated vasculature and microenvironment, and drug delivery. The lab is in a highly collaborative research environment with access to world-class resources, expertise, and data.

Current projects seeking postdoctoral fellows include: Image-guided computational modeling ("digital twins") to predict and optimize cancer (especially breast cancer) treatment response on a patient-specific basis. Development of deep learning models, longitudinal image analysis, and multi-modality data integration to improve breast cancer early detection. LEARNING OBJECTIVES This postdoctoral fellow will engage in highly productive interdisciplinary research projects in image-guided precision oncology and personalized cancer healthcare.

The fellow will expand their knowledge and skills in quantitative imaging, image analysis, artificial intelligence (AI)/deep learning technologies, mathematical biomechanical modeling, inverse problems, and uncertainty quantification. The fellow will have opportunities to contribute to ongoing research projects and will be encouraged to explore and develop new areas of research interest with guidance from the mentor. The fellow will be expected to work closely with research/clinical collaborators, communicate findings via reports, abstracts, presentations, and publications, and actively participate in seminars, conferences, and related academic endeavors.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Applicants should have earned a Ph.D. in one of the natural sciences, computer sciences, applied mathematics, engineering, or related fields or a medical degree. Experience with machine learning and deep learning techniques, mathematical modeling, or medical image analysis is preferred

Applicants do not need to be US citizens or permanent residents. This appointment is not part of a clinical training program; individuals holding an M.D. degree or equivalent are not permitted to engage in patient care activity

ADDITIONAL APPLICATION INFORMATION The trainee will be appointed for one year from the date of hire with an option to be renewed for up to three years. POSITION INFORMATION Offsite work arrangements are subject to approval and may be modified or revoked at any time based on business needs, performance considerations, or regulatory requirements. This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening

The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment. It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html FACULTY MENTOR Dr

Chengyue Wu Apply


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