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Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY · On-site

$62K - $88K/yr

Postdoctoral Associate, Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics The Cornell Laboratory of Atomic and Solid State Physics (LASSP) seeks a Postdoctoral Associate to join the research group of Professor ...

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Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc information

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$46K

$82.1K

$122.5K

How much do condensed matter physics postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for condensed matter physics postdoc in the United States is $82,064.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a condensed matter physics postdoc?

A Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc is a researcher who has completed their PhD and is engaged in advanced studies of the properties and behaviors of condensed phases of matter, such as solids and liquids. These postdoctoral researchers work in academic or industrial labs, conducting experiments, developing theoretical models, and publishing their findings. Their work often contributes to advancements in materials science, nanotechnology, and quantum computing. The postdoc position is typically temporary, lasting two to three years, and is intended to further develop research skills and prepare for a permanent academic or industry role.

What are typical research collaborations for a condensed matter physics postdoc, and how do they impact daily work?

As a Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc, you will frequently collaborate with faculty researchers, graduate students, and sometimes external partners from industry or national laboratories. These collaborations often involve sharing experimental data, co-authoring research papers, and jointly developing experimental setups or simulations. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as projects may require interdisciplinary knowledge spanning materials science, chemistry, and computational modeling. Collaborative work can broaden your research perspective, provide access to specialized equipment, and open doors to future career opportunities, but it also requires strong organizational skills to balance multiple projects and deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a condensed matter physics postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc, you need a Ph.D. in physics or a related field, strong analytical abilities, and deep knowledge of condensed matter theory or experiment. Experience with simulation software (such as MATLAB or Python), characterization instruments (like X-ray diffraction or electron microscopy), and data analysis tools is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective scientific communication are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualifications enable advanced research, collaboration, and the dissemination of significant scientific contributions in a competitive academic environment.

What is the difference between Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc vs Materials Scientist?

AspectCondensed Matter Physics PostdocMaterials Scientist
Required credentialsPhD in Physics or related fieldMaster's or PhD in Materials Science, Physics, or Chemistry
Work environmentAcademic research labs, universitiesIndustry R&D labs, manufacturing companies
Employer and industry usageUniversities, government research institutionsPrivate sector companies, industrial research
Common search and comparison intentResearch focus, academic career pathsProduct development, applied research

The Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc primarily focuses on fundamental research in academic or government settings, often involving theoretical and experimental studies of materials. In contrast, a Materials Scientist typically works in industry, applying scientific principles to develop new materials and products. While both roles require advanced degrees, their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc jobs?

For Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,064 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc (Multiple Openings)

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

Los Alamos National Laboratory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Job Title Condensed Matter Physics Postdoc (Multiple Openings)
Location Los Alamos, NM, US
Organization Name MPA-MAG LAB NHMFL GROUP/MPA-MAGLAB
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
What You Will Do
The Pulsed Field Facility of the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (NHMFL) at Los Alamos National Laboratory has an immediate opening for 3 postdoctoral positions in experimental condensed matter physics in high magnetic fields, each focusing on the following areas:
  • Position #1: Magneto-optical spectroscopy of semiconducting, magnetic, and superconducting materials. Inquiries should be sent to Dr. Scott Crooker (crooker@lanl.gov)
  • Position #2 : Thermal transport techniques, including specific heat and thermoelectric effects. This position offers opportunities to design and develop novel instrumentation, as well as to study thermal transport properties in both bulk crystals and thin films. The project aims to deepen understanding of phase transitions and the electronic behavior of quantum materials such as quantum spin liquids and topological semimetals. Inquiries regarding this position should be directed to Drs. KM Rubi (rubi@lanl.gov) and Minseong Lee (ml10k@lanl.gov)
  • Position #3: Experimental studies of unconventional superconductivity and quantum magnetism using resonant ultrasound spectroscopy, pulsed-echo techniques, and resonant magnetometry. Inquiries about this position should be directed to Dr. Chris Mizzi (mizzi@lanl.gov ) and Dr. Arkady Shekhter (ark@lanl.gov).

The NHMFL is a user facility for research in materials, chemistry, and life sciences. The Pulsed Field Facility is dedicated to providing the largest non-destructive magnetic fields for research. The positions also provide opportunities for industrious candidates to pursue new collaborations, develop complementary techniques, and perform independent research within related topics at LANL.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:

Specific requirements for each position are
Position #1:
  • Strong background in UV-VIS-IR optical spectroscopy (and/or THz spectroscopy), CW and/or ultrafast, ability to build and modify table-top experiments in a laser lab environment. Common methods include PL, absorption, MOKE / Faraday rotation (time-resolved & CW), scanning and spatial imaging.

Positions #2:
  • Background in low-temperature (liquid Helium temperature) experimental condensed matter physics
  • Hands-on experience with physical property measurements of materials, such as electrical transport, magnetization, heat capacity, thermoelectric transport.

Position #3:
  • Experience designing and building custom RF instrumentation (MHz-GHz) and precision measurement electronics. Strong background in designing low-temperature experiments.
  • Experience developing software for data acquisition, instrument control, and data analysis.

Candidates for any of the 3 positions must have:
  • A strong background in experimental condensed matter physics
  • The ability to communicate with peers and supervisors at all levels
  • Effective written and oral communication skills in English and the ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively
  • Strong peer reviewed publication record

Education/Experience: A Ph.D. in Physics or related field completed within the past five years or soon to be completed is required. The candidate will have completed all Ph.D. requirements by commencement of the appointment.
Desired Qualifications:
Specific desired qualifications for each position are
Position #1 :
  • Experience with CW and ultrafast lasers, detectors (CCDs, array detectors, photodiodes), optical fibers, cryogenics & optical cryostats, superconducting magnets, vacuum and electrical systems
  • Experience with van der Waals stacking and assembly of 2D materials is also desired.
  • Experience with time-domain THz spectroscopy is also of interest.

Position #2 :
  • Strong knowledge of thermal properties of solids
  • Experience with experiments in high magnetic fields and low temperatures
  • Experience in instrumentation development for advanced measurements
  • Familiarity with quantum spin liquids or topological semimetals

Position #3 :
  • Experience preparing sub-mm-sized samples.
  • Expertise in unconventional superconductivity and/or magnetism

Note to Applicants:
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applications must include
  • CV with the minimum following information: Educational background with degree dates; Work experience; Relevant extracurricular activities; Peer-reviewed publications; List at least 3 professional references with names, titles, phone numbers, and email addresses. References will not be contacted without prior notice to the applicant.
  • Cover letter stating interest in one or more of the 3 positions; research interests and experience; how you meet the required and desired qualification listed for the position

Only complete applications with a cover letter and C.V. will be considered. In addition to applying online, the cover letter and C.V. must be sent via email to the points of contact of the relevant positions listed above.
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Work Location : The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
§ PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
§ Dental and vision insurance
§ Free basic life and disability insurance
§ Paid childbirth and parental leave
§ Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
§ Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
§ Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
§ Onsite gyms and wellness programs
§ Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
No Clearance: Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Employment Status Full Time
Appointment Type Postdoc
Postdoc
Contact Details
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