The department houses active research programs in several areas, including computational condensed matter and chemical physics and experimental condensed matter and materials physics. To learn more ...
The department houses active research programs in several areas, including computational condensed matter and chemical physics and experimental condensed matter and materials physics. To learn more ...
Condensed Matter Physics information
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$8.44 - $13.72
20% of jobs
$15.51 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.72 - $19
15% of jobs
$19 - $24.28
15% of jobs
The median wage is $24.65 / hr.
$24.28 - $29.55
7% of jobs
$29.55 - $34.83
9% of jobs
$39.19 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$34.83 - $40.11
11% of jobs
$40.11 - $45.39
7% of jobs
$45.39 - $50.66
5% of jobs
$50.66 - $55.94
4% of jobs
$55.94 - $61.22
3% of jobs
$61.22 - $66.50
3% of jobs
$8
$31
$66
How much do condensed matter physics jobs pay per hour?
What is condensed matter physics?
A Condensed Matter Physics job involves studying the physical properties of solid and liquid materials, such as superconductors, semiconductors, and magnetic systems. Researchers in this field explore how atoms and electrons interact to develop new materials and technologies. These jobs can be in academia, government labs, or industry, working on applications in electronics, quantum computing, and nanotechnology. Typical roles include theoretical modeling, experimental measurements, and materials design.
What does a condensed matter physicist do?
Professionals in Condensed Matter Physics spend much of their time conducting experiments or simulations, analyzing complex data, and developing theoretical models to explain physical phenomena in materials. They often work as part of multidisciplinary teams in academic, governmental, or industrial research environments, and regular responsibilities may include writing and presenting research findings, collaborating with engineers or chemists, and applying for research grants. Depending on the setting, involvement in teaching, mentoring junior researchers, or managing laboratory equipment is also common. The work is dynamic and varied, often requiring adaptability as research progresses and new discoveries are made.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in condensed matter physics?
To excel in Condensed Matter Physics, you need a solid background in physics or a related field, often supported by a PhD, with strong analytical, mathematical, and experimental skills. Familiarity with computational software (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and advanced simulation tools is valuable, and experience with scientific publishing or grant writing can be advantageous. Attention to detail, critical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication are key soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for driving research innovation, solving complex problems, and working effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
How much does a condensed matter physicist make?
Is condensed matter physics in demand?
What are the most commonly searched types of Condensed Matter Physics jobs in Michigan?
The most popular types of Condensed Matter Physics jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Condensed Matter Physics jobs in Michigan?
For Condensed Matter Physics jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Condensed Matter Physics jobs in Michigan look for?
The top searched job categories for Condensed Matter Physics jobs in Michigan are:

X-ray Studies of Quantum Materials Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Mount Pleasant, MI • On-site
Full-time
Re-posted yesterday
Key responsibilities
Work in the field of structural characterization of quantum materials using x-ray scattering techniques and structure modeling.
Perform in-house and synchrotron x-ray scattering experiments on complex materials and analyze data using Rietveld and atomic pair distribution function techniques.
Test and refine atomistic structure models against experimental x-ray scattering data.
Central Michigan University rating
7.1
Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
415th of 630 rated colleges and universities
Job description
Position Information
Posting Number
F-1019
Position Title
X-ray Studies of Quantum Materials Postdoctoral Research Fellow
College/Unit
College of Science and Engineering
Home Department
Department of Physics
Employee Group
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Employment Status
Full-Time
Position Type
12 month
Position Classification
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Position Begin Date
02/01/2026
Position End Date
07/31/2026
Position Summary
A postdoctoral position is available starting February 1, 2026, in the Physics Department at Central Michigan University. We are seeking an enthusiastic scientist to work in the field of structural characterization of quantum materials using x-ray scattering techniques and structure modeling.
Required Qualifications
- PhD in Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science, received no later than 6 years before the initial appointment. ABD candidates may be considered, provided the degree is conferred by the start date of the appointment.
- Experience in in-house and synchrotron x-ray scattering experiments on complex materials using Rietveld and atomic pair distribution function techniques.
- Ability to test and refine atomistic structure models against experimental x-ray scattering data.
- Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications
- Solid-state synthesis experience.
- Computer programming skills.
- Ability to implement artificial intelligence in crystal structure studies.
Message to Applicants
Central Michigan University is dedicated to fostering an environment that is reflective of the communities we serve. We are especially interested in highly qualified candidates who will advance and promote CMU's mission, vision, and leadership standards.
You must submit an online application in order to be considered as an applicant for this position.
Cover letters may be addressed to the Hiring Committee.
About the Department
The CMU Physics Department offers B.S., B.S. in Ed., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in physics and participates in the interdisciplinary Ph.D. in the Science of Advanced Materials. The department houses active research programs in several areas, including computational condensed matter and chemical physics and experimental condensed matter and materials physics.
To learn more about the department, click here.
Posting Begins
01/07/2026
Posting Ends
Open Until Filled
Yes
Type of Recruitment
External
About CMU
Central Michigan University has a more than 125-year legacy of preparing students to become leaders and changemakers in their communities and in their personal and professional lives.
We serve nearly 15,500 students on our Mount Pleasant campus, in satellite locations around the state and throughout the country, and through flexible online programs. Many of our approximately 300 undergraduate, master's, specialist and doctoral programs in the arts, media, business, education, human services, health professions, liberal arts, social sciences, medicine, science and engineering are nationally ranked for excellence.
CMU leads the nation in leadership development programming through our Sarah R. Opperman Leadership Institute, and we are proud to be among only 5% of U.S. universities in the top two Carnegie research classifications. Our faculty work with graduate and undergraduate students in areas such as Great Lakes research, medical innovation, engineering technology and more.
Central is home to 17 men's and women's Division 1 sports including football, basketball, gymnastics, baseball, wrestling and more. Our student-athletes achieve great success in competition and in the classroom, capturing Mid-American Conference championships and maintaining an average cumulative GPA of 3.17.
CMU is located in Mount Pleasant, a community that blends the best of small-town living with big-city amenities. It's part of the culturally varied and vibrant Great Lakes Bay Region that also includes Saginaw, Bay City, Midland and the state's largest Native American community, centered on the Saginaw Chippewa Isabella Reservation in Mount Pleasant.
Area residents enjoy the mix of outdoor activities, cultural events, shopping and dining options, and family attractions. Other major Michigan destinations and attractions - Lansing, Grand Rapids, Detroit, Traverse City, wineries, beaches, golf and ski resorts, and many more - are within easy reach of the city's central location in Michigan's Lower Peninsula.
CMU employees enjoy access to a nationally recognized wellness program along with health care and benefits that exceed regional, state and national norms.
EEO Statement
CMU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and institution. CMU does not discriminate against persons based on age, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, race, religion, sex, sex-based stereotypes, sexual orientation, transgender status, veteran status, or weight.
If you wish to see "Know Your Rights " posters, please click here.
CMU does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, including admission and employment, and is required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 not to discriminate in such a matter.
Inquiries about the application of Title IX can be made to CMU's Title IX Coordinator, the US Department of Education's Assistant Secretary, or both.
CMU's Title IX Coordinator can be reached at:
Phone: 989-774-3253
Office: 103 E. Preston St.
Bovee University Center, suite 306
Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
Email: titleix@cmich.edu
What Central Michigan University employees say
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About Central Michigan University
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Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Mount Pleasant, MI, US
Year founded
1892