1

Astrophysics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SPECIFICS The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Penn State invites applicants for two Postdoctoral Researcher positions to work with Professor Jimmy DeLaunay and collaborators. The ...

The Particle Astrophysics group at Penn State is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work with Professor Stephanie Wissel on experimental searches for the highest energy neutrinos, multi-messenger ...

Position Details Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title Postdoctoral Associate Department ... D. in Earth and planetary sciences, geophysics, astrophysics, applied mathematics, or a closely ...

Arts and Sciences | Astronomy The Postdoctoral Scholar will work with Professor Scott Gaudi in the Department of Astronomy at The Ohio State University on the development of the Living Worlds science ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Astrophysics Postdoc information

See salary details

$13

$21

$62

How much do astrophysics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for astrophysics postdoc in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Astrophysics Postdoc position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Astrophysics Postdoc, you need an advanced degree (PhD) in astrophysics or a related field, along with strong analytical, mathematical, and research skills. Experience with programming languages like Python or C++, data analysis tools, and familiarity with astronomical instrumentation are common requirements. Excellent written and verbal communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities are key soft skills for effective work within research teams and conference settings. These skills enable impactful scientific contributions, efficient data interpretation, and successful integration into complex research projects.

How much does a physics post doc make?

A physics postdoctoral researcher typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on the institution, location, and funding source. Salaries may increase with experience, and postdocs often receive benefits such as health insurance and research stipends.

What is an Astrophysics Postdoc job?

An Astrophysics Postdoc is a temporary research position, typically lasting two to three years, for individuals who have recently completed their PhD in astrophysics or a related field. Postdocs work on specialized research projects, often under the supervision of a senior scientist or as part of a research team. Their responsibilities include conducting original research, publishing papers, attending conferences, and sometimes mentoring students. These positions help researchers gain experience, develop expertise, and prepare for permanent academic or industry roles.

Is there a high demand for astrophysicists?

Astrophysics postdocs typically face limited immediate job opportunities, as academic and research positions are competitive and often dependent on funding availability. However, skills in data analysis, programming, and research are valuable in related fields such as aerospace, data science, and scientific research institutions, which can expand employment prospects.

Does Elon Musk have a degree in astrophysics?

Elon Musk does not have a degree in astrophysics; he holds degrees in physics and economics from the University of Pennsylvania. As an entrepreneur and engineer, he has self-educated in various scientific fields relevant to his work in space exploration and technology. For an astrophysics postdoc, a PhD in astrophysics or a related field is typically required, which Musk does not possess.

Does NASA accept astrophysicists?

NASA employs astrophysicists in various research and mission roles, often hiring postdoctoral scientists with strong backgrounds in physics, astronomy, and data analysis. Candidates typically need relevant advanced degrees, research experience, and familiarity with scientific tools and programming. Postdoctoral positions at NASA provide opportunities for astrophysicists to contribute to space missions, research projects, and scientific discoveries.

What kinds of research projects and collaborations can an Astrophysics Postdoc expect to be involved in?

Astrophysics Postdocs often work on cutting-edge research projects that can include observational campaigns, theoretical modeling, data analysis from telescopes or space missions, and developing new computational tools. Collaborations are common, both within the host institution and with national or international teams, frequently involving interdisciplinary groups of physicists, data scientists, and engineers. Many postdocs contribute to publishing papers, presenting findings at conferences, and sometimes mentoring graduate or undergraduate students. This environment offers a dynamic blend of independent research and teamwork, fostering both deep expertise and broad professional connections in the astrophysics community.

More about Astrophysics Postdoc jobs
What states have the most Astrophysics Postdoc jobs? States with the most job openings for Astrophysics Postdoc jobs include:
Infographic showing various Astrophysics Postdoc job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 50% Physical, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,777 per year, or $21 per hour.
Pro Tem Research Assistant/Associate/Postdoc - Institute for Fundamental Science - Open Pool

Pro Tem Research Assistant/Associate/Postdoc - Institute for Fundamental Science - Open Pool

University Of Oregon

Eugene, OR

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


University Of Oregon rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

351st of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Pro Tem Research Assistant/Associate/Postdoc - Institute for Fundamental Science - Open Pool

Apply now Job no: 536540
Work type: Faculty - Pro Tempore
Location: Eugene, OR
Categories: Research/Scientific/Grants, Chemistry, Physics, Math

Department: Inst. for Fundamental Science
Rank: Research Assistant, Research Associate, Postdoctoral Scholar
Annual Basis: 12 Month

Review of Applications Begins

Applications will be reviewed as needs arise

Special Instructions to Applicants

In addition to a completed application, please submit
A current CV - must highlight research area of interest
Names and contact information for three professional references

Department Summary

The Institute for Fundamental Science (IFS) at the University of Oregon is the home for research whose primary aim is to understand, explore, and extend the fundamental laws of nature, with an emphasis on the consequences for observable phenomena. The IFS brings together the UO's investigations in experimental and theoretical high energy particle physics, astrophysics and astronomy, and is complemented by a variety of inquiries into other foundational topics.
More information about the Institute for Fundamental Science at the University of Oregon may
be found by visiting the Institute's website at: http://ifs.uoregon.edu.

Position Summary

The Institute for Fundamental Science at the University of Oregon is seeking qualified applicants for its open research pool. Positions are limited-duration, funding-contingent research appointments that are full time, part-time or short term, contracts not to exceed one year. There is a possibility of renewal up to a total of three years, depending on program needs, funding, and performance. The successful candidate will have the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.
Examples include research assistants, research associates, or postdoctoral scholars. Research assistants conduct research under the direction of a principal investigator; research associates conduct research with only general guidance; postdoctoral scholars conduct research under the direction of a faculty member for the purpose of acquiring research training.

Minimum Requirements

RESEARCH ASSISTANT (TYPE B): Positions require a bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field. In rare occasions, positions in specialized fields may allow for a combination of education and equivalent experience prior to the time of hire to satisfy the bachelor's degree requirement.
RESEARCH ASSISTANT (TYPE C): Positions require a master's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field. In rare occasions, positions in highly specialized fields may allow for a combination of education and exceptional equivalent experience prior to the time of hire to satisfy the master's degree requirement.
*Ranks for each research assistant type in ascending order are senior research assistant I and senior research assistant II.
Research Associate rank or Postdoctoral Scholar:
Terminal degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field.
Professional experience conducting research in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field.
Senior Research Associate I rank:
Terminal degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field, plus 6 years of applicable work experience post-degree.
Senior Research Associate II rank:
Terminal degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field, plus 12 years of applicable work experience post-degree.

Professional Competencies

Ability to conduct research activities under appropriate supervision and follow established research protocols.
Ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.
Strong analytical, criticalthinking, and problemsolving skills.
Ability to collect, manage, and analyze research data with accuracy and attention to detail.
Effective written and oral communication skills appropriate for scholarly and research environments.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.
Ability to foster a professional, inclusive, and respectful research environment.
Ability to comply with university policies, research compliance requirements, and applicable safety standards.
Effective timemanagement and organizational skills to meet project goals and deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior research experience in high energy particle physics, Astrophysics, Astronomy, Chemistry, Mathematics, or closely related fields.
Experience conducting experimental, theoretical, or computational research.
Familiarity with mathematical modeling, data analysis techniques, or computational tools relevant to fundamental science research.
Experience contributing to scholarly publications, preprints, technical reports, or conference presentations.
Experience working in a collaborative or interdisciplinary research environment.
For research associates or postdoctoral scholars: evidence of increasing independence in research activities.
Experience supporting grantfunded or contractfunded research projects.
Experience participating in research seminars, workshops, or professional scientific meetings.


All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit our website.

The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please email us or call 541-346-5112.

UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy (including pregnancy-related conditions), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services (as defined in federal and state law), veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy. Questions may be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are listed here.

In compliance with federal law, the University of Oregon prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and services. The Annual Campus Security and Fire Safety Report is available online.

Advertised: April 8, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: April 8, 2027 Pacific Daylight Time

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend


What University Of Oregon employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom