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Computational Physicist Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

SES

Computational Materials Scientist

Woburn, MA · On-site +1

$180K - $200K/yr

What we Need: The SES AI Prometheus team isseeking an exceptional Computational Materials Scientist to combine physics-based simulation (DFT, MD, quantum modeling) with AI-assisted material ...

micro1 AI

Physics Modeling Expert - Remote

Lowell, MA · Remote

$80 - $140/hr

Utilize SymPy, Python, and Jupyter for symbolic or numerical verification and clear computational ... PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant ...

micro1 AI

Physics Modeling Expert - Remote

Boston, MA · Remote

$80 - $140/hr

Utilize SymPy, Python, and Jupyter for symbolic or numerical verification and clear computational ... PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant ...

micro1 AI

Physics Modeling Expert - Remote

Lynn, MA · Remote

$80 - $140/hr

Utilize SymPy, Python, and Jupyter for symbolic or numerical verification and clear computational ... PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant ...

micro1 AI

Physics Modeling Expert - Remote

Cambridge, MA · Remote

$80 - $140/hr

Utilize SymPy, Python, and Jupyter for symbolic or numerical verification and clear computational ... PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant ...

micro1 AI

Physics Modeling Expert - Remote

Brockton, MA · Remote

$80 - $140/hr

Utilize SymPy, Python, and Jupyter for symbolic or numerical verification and clear computational ... PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant ...

micro1 AI

Physics Modeling Expert - Remote

Quincy, MA · Remote

$80 - $140/hr

Utilize SymPy, Python, and Jupyter for symbolic or numerical verification and clear computational ... PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant ...

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All JobsComputational Physicist JobsComputational Physicist Jobs in Boston, MA

Computational Physicist information

See Boston, MA salary details

$151.4K

$179.4K

$204.5K

How much do computational physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational physicist in Boston, MA is $179,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $165,200.00 and $193,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

More about Computational Physicist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Computational Physicist jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Computational Physicist jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Computational Physicist jobs in Boston, MA?

For Computational Physicist jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computational Physicist jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computational Physicist jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Computational Physicist jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Computational Physicist job openings:

Computational Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computational Physicist job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $179,368 per year, or $86.2 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Position in Computational Physics at Harvard University

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$67K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Harvard University rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

82nd of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position
Details
Title
Postdoctoral Research Position in Computational Physics at Harvard University
School
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department/Area
Physics
Position Description
Postdoctoral Research Position in Computational Physics at Harvard University
The group of Professor Efthimios Kaxiras (Physics/SEAS) expects to appoint one postdoctoral fellow beginning in February 2026. We are looking for candidates with interests in multiscale simulations of complex physical phenomena, from the atomistic/electronic scale to mesocopics and beyond. Of particular interest is the development and application of methodologies suited for simulations of biological systems, including DNA and histone interactions.
Candidates should also arrange for letters of recommendation to be submitted by up to three scientists familiar with their work. Candidates may also wish to include selected preprints or reprints of articles they have written.
Candidate materials must include a CV and statement of research, in addition to the letters of recommendation.
Salary Range - Postdocs: $67,600-$80,000
Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field for candidates with recent PhD (within 1 year of application).
Applications and supporting materials should arrive by
23 January 2026, for full consideration. However later applications may also be considered on a rolling basis.
Basic Qualifications
Candidates for this position must have completed their Ph.D. degree by the appointment start date and demonstrate outstanding research in computational physics for modeling of complex physical phenomena.
Additional Qualifications
Candidates must have experience in carrying out large-scale computational modeling of complex systems at various scales, for example using ab initio electronic structure methods like density-functional theory, developing interatomic potentials with various methodologies including machine learning approaches, and performing coarse-graining to obtain effective models at various scales.
Special Instructions
Contact Information
Jason Eldridge
https://www.physics.harvard.edu/
Harvard Physics Department
17 Oxford Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
Contact Email
jason_eldridge@fas.harvard.edu
Salary Range
$67,600
Minimum Number of References Required
2
Maximum Number of References Allowed
3
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