1

Condensed Matter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Condensed Matter information

See salary details

$20K

$82.4K

$168.5K

How much do condensed matter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 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:
Associate or Full Professor of Empire Innovation, Experimental Condensed Matter Physics

Associate or Full Professor of Empire Innovation, Experimental Condensed Matter Physics

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


University at Buffalo rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

331st of 532 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Associate or Full Professor of Empire Innovation, Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
Department
Department of Physics
Posting Number
F250111
Posting Link
https://www.ubjobs.buffalo.edu/postings/59432
Employer
State
Bargaining Unit
Faculty Appointment Term
Term
Position Type
UUP Faculty
Posting Detail Information
Fiscal Year
2025-2026
Position Summary
The Department of Physics at the University at Buffalo (UB), The State University of New York (SUNY), is seeking to fill asenior faculty Empire Innovation hire at the Associate or Full Professor level in experimental condensed matter physics. This strategic hire is part of a multi-year, multi-faculty recruitment effort in quantum science and technology supported by the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the Office of the Provost, and the State of New York. This position will hold the title of SUNY Empire Innovation Professor and is partially supported by SUNY's Empire Innovation Programflagship initiative designed to recruit and retain exceptional faculty with nationally recognized records of research and scholarship in strategically important fields.
The successful candidate is expected to build an active, externally funded research program in the general area of quantum sensing. We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in the physics of sensing and its application in studies of quantum materials. This includes, but is not limited to, research on: magnetometry with atomic defects, quantum thermometry, entanglement-enhanced sensing, biosensing, and quantum-enhanced spectroscopy. We also welcome applications from candidates with research interests overlapping with both quantum sensing and quantum communication.
The ideal candidate will be a nationally/internationally recognized research leader in quantum sensing, with a proven publishing and external funding record (or research leadership in industry). They should demonstrate strong ties with other leading researchers in academia, government labs, and/or industry. The successful candidate should additionally have a strong background in teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as in student mentoring.
The EIP Professor will join a dynamic and expanding Department of Physics with growing strengths in both experimental and theoretical quantum science. The department has recently welcomed seven new faculty members (2022-2025) specializing in areas such as MBE growth of quantum materials, neutron scattering, quantum optics, novel semiconductors, and quantum information science. It is home to 10 NSF CAREER award winners and has seen its sponsored research expenditures increase by over 50% in the past five years, aligning with UB's institutional ambition to double its research expenditures. UB is also the home for Empire AI the New York State-based research consortium backed by over $500 million in public and private funding.
Inquiries about this position can be directed to Professor Hao Zeng at haozeng@buffalo.edu or Professor Herbert Fotso at hffotso@buffalo.edu.
All job applications should be submitted via UB Jobs. Following is the link: https://www.ubjobs.buffalo.edu/postings/59432. The position is open until filled, with an initial application deadline of December 10.
Learn more:
  • Our benefits, where we prioritize your well-being and success to enhance every aspect of your life.
  • Being a part of the University at Buffalo community.

University at Buffalo is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and, in keeping with our commitment, welcomes all to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Minimum Qualifications
  • PhD in Physics or related discipline
  • Scholarly profile appropriate to rank

Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate will be a nationally/internationally recognized research leader in quantum sensing, with a proven publishing and external funding record (or research leadership in industry). They should demonstrate strong ties with other leading researchers in academia, government labs, and/or industry. The successful candidate should additionally have a strong background in teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as in student mentoring.
Physical Demands
Driving Requirements
Salary Range
Competitive
Additional Salary Information
Job Type
Full-Time
Campus
North Campus
Posting Alerts
Special Instructions Summary
  • Review of applications will begin December 10, 2025. The position is open until filled with anticipated start fall 2026.
  • Applicants should submit a CV, Cover Letter, Research Statement and Teaching Statement.
  • All application materials must be submitted via UB Jobs. Application materials submitted directly to the posting contact will not be acknowledged and cannot be considered.

Additional Information
Is a background check required for this posting?
No
Background Check Notification
Contact Information
Contact's Name
Hao Zeng
Contact's Pronouns
Contact's Title
Professor of Physics, Search Committee Co-chair
Contact's Email
haozeng@buffalo.edu
Contact's Phone
716-645-2946
Posting Dates
Posted
10/03/2025
Deadline for Applicants
Open Until Filled
Date to be filled
08/18/2026
References
Number of References Required
3
Reference Cutoff Date
Instructions to Applicant
By providing the names and e-mail addresses of my references, I hereby authorize either Human Resources or the applicable hiring department to contact my references via e-mail to request a reference letter on my behalf.

What University at Buffalo employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom