ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Astrophysics Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS The Particle Astrophysics group at Penn State is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work with Prof.StephanieWissel on experimental searches for the highest energy neutrinos ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAstrophysics Researcher Jobs

Astrophysics Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do astrophysics researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for astrophysics researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior astrophysics researchers, data scientists, investment bankers, corporate executives, and specialized medical professionals can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and often involve leadership, research, or technical expertise in their fields.

What jobs can you get by studying astrophysics?

Astrophysics graduates can pursue careers as research scientists, astronomers, data analysts, or university professors. They often work in observatories, research institutions, or academia, utilizing skills in data analysis, programming, and scientific research methods.

What does an Astrophysics Researcher do?

An Astrophysics Researcher studies the physical properties and behaviors of celestial objects and phenomena, such as stars, galaxies, black holes, and cosmic radiation. They use theoretical models, computer simulations, and observational data from telescopes and satellites to advance our understanding of the universe. Their work often involves analyzing data, publishing findings in scientific journals, and collaborating with other scientists and institutions. Astrophysics Researchers may also contribute to the development of new instruments or techniques for observing space.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Astrophysics Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Astrophysics Researcher, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy, typically supported by a PhD in astrophysics or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python or C++), data analysis tools, and experience with telescopes or simulation software is often required. Critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills help researchers analyze complex data, develop novel hypotheses, and collaborate with international teams. These skills are crucial for advancing scientific understanding, publishing impactful research, and contributing to large-scale projects in the field of astrophysics.

Which country is no. 1 in astrophysics?

The United States is generally considered the leading country in astrophysics research, with top institutions like NASA and prominent universities contributing significantly to the field. Other countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and China also have strong astrophysics programs and research output.

What is the difference between Astrophysics Researcher vs Astronomer?

AspectAstrophysics ResearcherAstronomer
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics, or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Astronomy, Physics, or related field; advanced degrees preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, observatories, space agenciesObservatories, research institutions, universities, planetariums
Industry UsagePrimarily in research and academia, space agencies, and private space companiesAcademic research, public outreach, observational studies

While both roles involve studying celestial phenomena, an Astrophysics Researcher focuses on theoretical and experimental research in astrophysics, often working on complex models and simulations. An Astronomer typically emphasizes observational studies, collecting data from telescopes and analyzing celestial objects. The two roles overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in their primary focus—research versus observation.

How much do astrophysicist researchers make?

Astrophysics researchers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles often require a Ph.D. and strong skills in data analysis and programming.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by Astrophysics Researchers when conducting observational studies?

Astrophysics Researchers often encounter challenges such as limited telescope time, weather-dependent observations, and the need to process large volumes of complex data. Collaborating with international teams and coordinating schedules across different observatories can also be demanding. Additionally, researchers must stay updated on the latest data analysis techniques and software tools to effectively interpret results and advance their projects.
More about Astrophysics Researcher jobs
What states have the most Astrophysics Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Astrophysics Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Astrophysics Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Astrophysics Researcher jobs are:
Astrophysics Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astrophysics Researcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Tenured Faculty Position in Astrophysics

Rutgers University

New Brunswick, NJ

$87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Rutgers University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title Tenured Faculty Position in Astrophysics Department SAS - Physics & Astronomy Salary Details Salary Minimum $87,000 Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, based on position, which includes:
  • Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
  • Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
  • Employee and dependent educational benefits
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Employee discounts programs
 
For detailed information on benefits and eligibility, please visit: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/benefits/benefits-overview.
Posting Summary
The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rutgers University-New Brunswick invites applications for a faculty member at the level of tenured Associate Professor or above. We are seeking an astrophysicist with outstanding accomplishments and excellent future promise in a research area that either contacts with current faculty research or expands into a new area such as exoplanets, gravitational waves, or astronomical instrumentation.
Currently, Rutgers has a 10% share in the Southern African Large Telescope, and Rutgers astronomers participate in collaborations including Advanced ACTPol, HETDEX, Rubin Observatory LSST, and the Simons Observatory, as well as large projects with the Chandra X-ray Observatory, HST, JWST, MeerKAT, and planning for the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. Active research covers a broad range of observational and theoretical work in cosmology, dark matter, gravitational lensing, galaxy clusters, galaxy formation and evolution, star formation, astrophysical turbulence, and supernovae and their remnants.
The Physics and Astronomy Department is located in Piscataway, NJ as part of the flagship campus of Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. The campus is just 45 minutes from New York City, and the area features several leading astrophysics departments and institutes, facilitating rich knowledge exchange and collaborations. New Jersey is a demographically diverse state, and our student body reflects the state's demographics. We are especially interested in candidates who demonstrate a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in an academic setting and who can support the Department's diversity and excellence.
Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent in astronomy, physics, or a closely related field, and an outstanding record of research. The successful candidate will be expected to establish an independent research program, attract external funding, teach courses in astrophysics, and mentor Rutgers' diverse undergraduate and graduate students. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, publication list, 3-4 page statement of research accomplishments and plans, 2-3 page statement of teaching and mentoring accomplishments and plans indicating how the candidate would engage a diverse student population. The applicant should arrange to have three recommendation letters submitted by the letter writers through the application portal. All materials should be submitted online via https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/250796. Review of applications will begin in May 2025 and will continue until the position is filled.
Questions regarding this position can be addressed to the search committee, chaired by Prof. Eric Gawiser, at gawiser@physics.rutgers.edu ,or to any of the Rutgers astrophysics faculty.
Position Status Full Time Posting Number 25FA0516 Posting Open Date Posting Close Date
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
Applicants must have a Ph.D. or foreign equivalent to a Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, or a closely related field, and an outstanding record of research.
Certifications/Licenses Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Preferred Qualifications Equipment Utilized Physical Demands and Work Environment Overview Statement
Posting Details
Special Instructions to Applicants Quick Link to Posting https://rutgers-sb.peopleadmin.com/postings/250796 Campus Rutgers University-New Brunswick Home Location Campus Rutgers University - New Brunswick City Piscataway State NJ Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements

Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we value diversity of background and opinion, and prohibit discrimination or harassment on the basis of any legally protected class in the areas of hiring, recruitment, promotion, transfer, demotion, training, compensation, pay, fringe benefits, layoff, termination or any other terms and conditions of employment. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

What Rutgers University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply