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Condensed Matter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

TheEberly College of Science, Department of PhysicsatThe Pennsylvania State Universityis seeking to fill two Postdoctoral Scholar positionsin Experimental Condensed Matter Physics .The successful ...

Indiana University

Postdoctoral Fellow

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

The successful applicant will be joining a vibrant department, with active theoretical and experimental research in condensed matter and AMO physics, as well as correlated condensed matter, quantum ...

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$20K

$82.4K

$168.5K

How much do condensed matter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for condensed matter in the United States is $82,436.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Condensed Matter Physicist, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and materials science, usually supported by a PhD in physics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, computational modeling software (like MATLAB or Python), and techniques such as X-ray diffraction or electron microscopy is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills are crucial for innovation and teamwork in research environments. These competencies enable physicists to advance scientific understanding, develop novel materials, and contribute to technological progress.

What is condensed matter physics?

Condensed matter physics is a branch of physics that studies the physical properties of matter in solid and liquid states. It explores how atoms and molecules interact to give rise to phenomena like superconductivity, magnetism, and crystal structures. Research in this field has led to significant technological advancements, including the development of semiconductors and new materials. Condensed matter physicists use experimental and theoretical techniques to understand and manipulate material properties at the atomic scale.

What is the difference between Condensed Matter vs Materials Scientist?

AspectCondensed MatterMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Materials Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Physics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry R&DResearch labs, manufacturing, industry R&D
Industry UsageFundamental research in physics and materialsDevelopment and testing of new materials for applications
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding physics of materialsDeveloping new materials for products

Condensed Matter physicists focus on understanding the fundamental properties of materials at the atomic and electronic levels, often in research settings. Materials Scientists, while also studying materials, tend to focus more on developing, testing, and applying new materials in industry. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their primary focus and work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by condensed matter physicists in experimental research settings?

Condensed matter physicists working in experimental research often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise control over experimental conditions, troubleshooting complex instrumentation, and interpreting large volumes of data. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams is common, requiring effective communication with materials scientists, engineers, and theorists. Staying updated with rapidly evolving techniques and technologies is also essential for success in this role.
More about Condensed Matter jobs
What cities are hiring for Condensed Matter jobs? Cities with the most Condensed Matter job openings:
What states have the most Condensed Matter jobs? States with the most job openings for Condensed Matter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Condensed Matter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Condensed Matter jobs are:
Condensed Matter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Condensed Matter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 12% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,436 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar - Experimental Condensed Matter Physics

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Penn State University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

181st of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The Eberly College of Science, Department of Physics at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking to fill two postdoctoral positions in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics. The successful candidate will actively engage in Prof. Cui-Zu Chang's research program (https://sites.psu.edu/changresearch/), which focuses on exploring quantum phenomena in films and heterostructures grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The projects in Cui-Zu's group encompass a range of techniques, including MBE growth, angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/S), nanoscale device fabrication, mechanical exfoliation, and dilution electrical transport measurements. We are seeking an ideal candidate with expertise in at least one of these areas.
Requirements include a Ph.D. in Physics or related fields. Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, CV, and statement of research interests. Applicants should arrange for three reference letters to be submitted to physicsapply@psu.edu indicating the appropriate job number in the subject line. This is a limited term appointment funded for one year from the date of hire, with the possibility of refunding. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is found.
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