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Computational Materials Science Jobs in Tennessee

Type One Energy

Materials Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Work closely with a multidisciplinary team of Scientists, Engineers, and Technicians to foster a ... modern computational physics and high-field superconducting magnets to develop its optimized ...

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Computational Materials Science information

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$132.6K

$157.2K

$179.2K

How much do computational materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational materials science in Tennessee is $157,151.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $144,700.00 and $169,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computational materials science?

Computational materials science is a field that uses computer-based simulations and modeling to understand, predict, and design the properties and behaviors of materials. Researchers use mathematical models, algorithms, and high-performance computing to study materials at the atomic, molecular, or macroscopic level. This approach allows scientists to accelerate the discovery of new materials, optimize existing ones, and investigate phenomena that may be difficult or expensive to study experimentally.

What are computational materials science jobs?

Jobs in computational materials science include academic and research positions in university settings. You can also find positions in the manufacturing industry. As a research scientist in computational materials science, your duties are to develop hypotheses and test them using computational modeling software and a variety of investigatory tools, such as Monte Carlo algorithms, density function theory, phase field models, and finite element methods. Your responsibilities include gathering data, testing modeling software, collaborating with other researchers to develop tools that aid them in their research, and analyzing data to write reports, journal articles, or presentations for conferences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational materials scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Materials Scientist, you need a solid background in materials science, physics, or chemistry, often with a graduate degree and experience in scientific computing. Proficiency with simulation software (such as VASP, LAMMPS, or Quantum ESPRESSO), programming languages (like Python, C++, or Fortran), and familiarity with high-performance computing systems is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for designing, executing, and interpreting complex simulations and for translating computational insights into real-world materials innovations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in computational materials science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Computational Materials Science often encounter challenges such as dealing with large datasets, managing the complexity of multi-scale simulations, and ensuring the accuracy of computational models. Addressing these challenges typically involves staying updated on the latest simulation software, collaborating closely with experimental teams to validate results, and developing strong programming and data analysis skills. Effective communication and interdisciplinary teamwork are also key, as projects often require input from chemists, physicists, and engineers to achieve successful outcomes.

What is the difference between Computational Materials Science vs Materials Engineer?

AspectComputational Materials ScienceMaterials Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a PhD or Master's in materials science, physics, or chemistryBachelor's or Master's in materials engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or R&D departments focusing on simulations and modelingManufacturing plants, design offices, or product development teams
Industry UsagePrimarily in research, academia, and advanced R&D projectsProduction, quality control, and product development in manufacturing industries
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Computational Materials Science focuses on using computer simulations and modeling to understand and predict material behavior, often requiring advanced degrees. Materials Engineers work on designing, testing, and improving materials in practical applications, usually with a bachelor's or master's degree. While both roles are integral to materials development, Computational Materials Science is more research-oriented, whereas Materials Engineering emphasizes application and production.

More about Computational Materials Science jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Computational Materials Science jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Computational Materials Science jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Computational Materials Science jobs in Tennessee?

For Computational Materials Science jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computational Materials Science jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Computational Materials Science jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Computational Materials Science jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Computational Materials Science job openings:

Computational Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computational Materials Science job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $157,151 per year, or $75.6 per hour.

Computational Materials and Chemistry, Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, TN • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Middle Tennessee State University rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

442nd of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Title

Computational Materials and Chemistry, Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Department

Chemistry

University Expectation

MTSU seeks candidates committed to innovative teaching and meaningful service. We also seek to attract culturally and academically diverse faculty who value working with diverse students.

Salary

The salary is commensurate with education and experience.

Job Summary/Basic Function

The Department of Chemistry at Middle Tennessee State University invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral research fellow position in computational materials and chemistry. This is a one-year temporary appointment with the possibility of renewal for an additional year. The start date is as early as August 1, 2026.

Dr. Zhen Jiang’s research focuses on computational chemistry and materials theory, with particular interests in reaction mechanisms, ion/electron transport in catalytic and energy materials, and data-driven materials design. The group combines first-principles calculations (DFT), multiscale modeling, high-throughput computation, and machine learning to study and rationally design novel catalytic and energy materials.

The group’s long-term research directions include:

  • Reactivity in bulk materials and interfaces.
  • Reaction mechanism modeling.
  • Machine-learning-assisted materials design.
  • Machine-learning-assisted development of kinetic methods.
  • Materials database construction and data mining.

Related work has been published in leading international journals, including Science, Nature Energy, Nature Materials, Journal of the American Chemical Society, Advanced Materials, and ACS Catalysis. The group also maintains long-term collaborations with multiple experimental and theoretical research teams in both the United States and China.

Personal Website: https://zhenjiang16.github.io/Homepage/

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=252n0esAAAAJ&hl

The successful candidate will have the following:

  • Solid background in first-principles calculations or materials modeling (such as VASP, Quantum ESPRESSO, etc.)
  • Good Python programming skills
  • Experience in high-throughput computation, data analysis, or machine learning
  • Demonstrate strong research independence
Required Education

A terminal degree in materials science, chemistry, computer science, condensed matter physics, or a closely related interdisciplinary field is required by the appointment date.

Other Desirables

Applicants familiar with defect calculations, band structure/density of states analysis, phase stability, or transport property calculations and who have published SCI-indexed papers in computational materials science or AI for Materials will receive special consideration.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Sick Leave
  • Vacation Leave for Administrative/Classified Staff/12-month Faculty
  • 13 paid University holidays
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Retirement plans
  • Optional 401K and 403B Deferred Compensation Plans
  • Educational benefits for the employee and their spouse and dependents

MTSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligibility for U.S. employment is required before employment. MTSU is a Tobacco & Drug-Free campus.

This position requires a criminal background check.

For individuals requiring reasonable accommodation to apply, please call 615-898-2929 or email emp@mtsu.edu.

Application Review Date: 04/08/2026

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