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Computational Physicist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Ability to explain modeling techniques for physical systems, approximation methods, and stability analysis while preparing students for engineering, physics, finance, and computational science ...

Ability to explain modeling techniques for physical systems, approximation methods, and stability analysis while preparing students for engineering, physics, finance, and computational science ...

Ability to explain modeling techniques for physical systems, approximation methods, and stability analysis while preparing students for engineering, physics, finance, and computational science ...

... and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). * Work with performance organization and system level ... Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Physics or Math with 2+ years of experience of ...

... and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). * Work with performance organization and system level ... Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Physics or Math with 2+ years of experience of ...

Design Engineer II

Fort Wayne, IN · Hybrid

$75K - $101K/yr

... FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Sound Acquisition Software packages. Key ... Minor in Physics or Acoustics Experience using an Anechoic chamber for sound measurements, and ...

Emphasizes recognizing when to apply specific techniques and connects advanced calculus to physics, engineering, and computational mathematics applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Emphasizes recognizing when to apply specific techniques and connects advanced calculus to physics, engineering, and computational mathematics applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Emphasizes recognizing when to apply specific techniques and connects advanced calculus to physics, engineering, and computational mathematics applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Emphasizes recognizing when to apply specific techniques and connects advanced calculus to physics, engineering, and computational mathematics applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Emphasizes recognizing when to apply specific techniques and connects advanced calculus to physics, engineering, and computational mathematics applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

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Computational Physicist information

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$136K

$161.1K

$183.7K

How much do computational physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational physicist in Indiana is $161,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $148,400.00 and $173,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Computational Physicist Do?

A computational physicist applies numerical analysis to solve problems or support theories in physics. In this career, you use knowledge from numerous disciplines, including physics, statistics, mathematics, and computer science, to test a theory. You use algorithms and other methodological tools to crunch large datasets using powerful computers, which helps in solving differential equations and other statistical problems. This can include Monte Carlo calculations and eigenvalue problems. Some people consider computational physics a branch of theoretical physics or its own discipline with specific duties and responsibilities.

What is the difference between Computational Physicist vs Data Scientist?

AspectComputational PhysicistData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, often PhD, strong math and programming skillsStatistics, computer science, or related degree, often with a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, government agencies, scientific institutionsTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting firms
Industry UsageScientific research, simulations, modeling physical systemsData analysis, predictive modeling, business insights

While both roles require strong programming and analytical skills, Computational Physicists focus on physical systems and scientific research, whereas Data Scientists analyze data to inform business decisions. The choice depends on your interest in scientific research versus data-driven applications.

What are some typical challenges computational physicists face when working on collaborative research projects?

Computational physicists often collaborate with experimentalists, engineers, and other researchers, which can present challenges such as bridging communication gaps between disciplines and integrating diverse data formats or methodologies. Coordinating project timelines to ensure that simulations align with experimental milestones is also common. Additionally, managing large datasets and ensuring reproducibility of results across different computing environments can require careful planning and documentation. Effective teamwork and adaptability are essential to overcome these hurdles and drive successful research outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computational Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computer science, typically supported by at least a master's or Ph.D. in physics or a related field. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and MATLAB, as well as experience with simulation software and high-performance computing systems, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help you tackle complex scientific challenges and collaborate on interdisciplinary projects. These skills are crucial for developing accurate models, efficiently solving intricate problems, and advancing scientific research through computational methods.

What is a computational physicist?

A computational physicist is a scientist who uses computer simulations, numerical analysis, and algorithms to solve complex physical problems that are difficult or impossible to address analytically. They work in fields like condensed matter physics, astrophysics, and materials science, modeling phenomena such as atomic interactions or galaxy formation. Their work often involves writing code, analyzing large datasets, and collaborating with experimental and theoretical physicists. Computational physicists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge by providing insights where traditional methods fall short.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computational Physicist jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Computational Physicist jobs in Indiana are:
What job categories do people searching Computational Physicist jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Computational Physicist jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Computational Physicist jobs in IN? For Computational Physicist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Post Doc Research Associate

Post Doc Research Associate

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

267th of 541 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Req Id: 35390
Job Title: Post Doc Research Associate
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Data-Driven Physics, ML/AI, and Advanced Detector R&D
The High Energy Physics Group at Purdue University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join an interdisciplinary research program at the intersection of data-intensive physics with nuclear/particle aspects, advanced detector R&D, machine learning and AI and emerging computational methods in quantum computing.
The position is intended for an excellent and broadly interested postdoctoral researcher with strong computational and data-analysis expertise who is interested in applied problems across experimental physics. The successful candidate contributes to applied nuclear and particle physics research leveraging machine learning and AI for data analysis and detector development, as well as exploratory work in quantum algorithms, depending on background and interests.
Core responsibilities and research directions include:
  • Applied nuclear physics and spectroscopy, focusing on the analysis of data from photon spectrometer detectors recording nuclear collisions. A central component of this work is the development and application of machine-learning and AI techniques to identify weak, rare, or previously unknown nuclear transitions in complex spectral data.
  • Advanced computational and data-science methods, including modern ML/AI workflows for pattern recognition, clustering, anomaly detection, and inference in large and noisy datasets. Exploratory work in quantum algorithms and quantum annealing for physics-driven optimization problems is also part of the research portfolio.
  • Detector R&D for future facilities, leveraging Purdue's infrastructure for detector development. The group operates a center of excellence for composite manufacturing and simulation for detector mechanics and cooling, as well as in-house facilities for the design, development, and construction of silicon detectors.

There is an optional opportunity to contribute a limited fraction of effort to research within the CMS experiment at CERN, particularly were expertise in ML/AI, data analysis, or detector-related topics can synergize with ongoing efforts.
The postdoctoral researcher will work in a collaborative environment, mentor graduate and undergraduate students as appropriate, and contribute to publications and future research proposals.
Qualifications
Ph.D. in experimental particle physics, nuclear physics, astrophysics, engineering, computer science, or a closely related field (by start date)
Strong background in data analysis, computing, and scientific programming
Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research
Experience with machine learning / AI is highly desirable
Prior exposure to nuclear physics data, detector systems, or scientific instrumentation is an advantage but not required
Interest in interdisciplinary research spanning physics, computation, and advanced instrumentation
Appointment & Environment
Initial appointment for one year, renewable subject to performance and funding
Competitive salary and full benefits
Access to extensive computational, laboratory, and detector-development resources
A collaborative research environment with strong ties to national laboratories, international experiments, and interdisciplinary AI initiatives at Purdue
Application Process
The position is available starting immediately and applications will be considered until the position is filled. The appointment is initially for one year and renewable annually, subject to mutual satisfaction. The position will be based in West Lafayette, IN, although travel to other locations is expected for a number of short trips per year and/or extended periods of time.
Applications should include a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a description of research interests (2 pages), and three letters of recommendation. Complete applications will be considered immediately. Please apply to link: https://careers.purdue.edu/job/Post-Doc-Research-Associate/35390-en_US/.
For information about the position, please contact Prof. Andreas Jung (anjung@purdue.edu ).

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