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Cosmology Salary information

What is the typical salary for a cosmologist?

The salary for a cosmologist can vary widely depending on factors such as education level, experience, geographic location, and the type of institution they work for. In academia, entry-level cosmologists with a PhD often start as postdoctoral researchers earning between $50,000 and $65,000 per year in the United States. Tenured professors and senior researchers can earn significantly more, sometimes exceeding $100,000 annually. Cosmologists working in government or private research labs may also see variations in compensation. Overall, salaries tend to increase with experience and career advancement.

What are some typical career paths and advancement opportunities for professionals in cosmology?

Professionals in cosmology often begin as research assistants or postdoctoral fellows in academic or research institutions. As they gain experience, they can advance to roles such as senior researcher, faculty member, or lead scientist on large-scale projects. Some may transition into data science or work with observatories and space agencies, while others move into policy, science communication, or education. Advancement typically depends on publication records, successful grant applications, and contributions to major discoveries or collaborations.

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

To thrive as a cosmologist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy, typically with a PhD in physics or a closely related field. Experience with data analysis software, programming languages like Python, and familiarity with observational or computational tools such as telescopes or simulation frameworks are essential. Analytical thinking, curiosity, and effective communication skills help cosmologists interpret complex data, collaborate with peers, and share findings. These skills are crucial for advancing research, contributing to scientific understanding, and succeeding in academic or research settings.

What is the difference between Cosmology Salary vs Astrophysics Salary?

AspectCosmology SalaryAstrophysics Salary
Required CredentialsPhD in Physics or Astronomy, specialized in cosmologyPhD in Physics or Astronomy, specialized in astrophysics
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, government labsResearch institutions, universities, government labs
Industry UsageFocus on universe-scale phenomena, dark matter, dark energyFocus on celestial objects, stars, planets, galaxies

Both cosmologists and astrophysicists often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, their salary differences may arise from specialization focus, with cosmologists typically working on universe-scale questions and astrophysicists on celestial objects. Understanding these distinctions can help in career planning and salary expectations.

Does cosmology pay well?

Cosmologists typically earn moderate to high salaries, especially with advanced degrees such as a Ph.D. and experience in research or academia. Salaries can vary based on the employer, location, and level of expertise, with positions in research institutions and universities often offering competitive compensation. Skills in data analysis, programming, and scientific research are important for higher earning potential.

What are some careers in cosmology?

Careers in cosmology include roles such as research scientist, astrophysicist, or university professor, focusing on studying the universe's origins, structure, and evolution. These positions typically require advanced degrees in physics or astronomy, strong analytical skills, and experience with data analysis tools like MATLAB or Python.
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Cosmology Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cosmology Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Researcher (Observational Cosmology)

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

University of California, Los Angeles
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 627 rated colleges and universities

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Learn more about University of California, Los Angelesexternal

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position description
The Department of Physics & Astronomy at UCLA seeks applications for a full-time (100%) Assistant Researcher in the area of observational cosmology. Qualified candidates will have a Ph.D. in Astronomy or a related field and a demonstrated background in cosmology, strong gravitational lensing, and stellar dynamics. The position will involve utilizing strong lensing data from JWST and other observatories to determine the expansion history of the universe, the Hubble constant, and dark energy equation of state. Candidates should provide: a curriculum vita; a statement of research interests; a publication list; and complete a reference check authorization release form. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2026.
The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. See Table 13B Represented Professional Research Series (ucop.edu).The salary range for this position is $96,700-$126,400.
Qualifications
Basic qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Astronomy or a related field
  • Demonstrated background in cosmology, strong gravitational lensing, and stellar dynamics

Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
  • Statement of Research Interests - Statement of Research Interests
  • Publication list - Your complete bibliography
  • Reference check authorization release form - Complete and upload the reference check authorization release form

Reference requirements
Applicants will be asked to name references, and the applicant must request letters to complete their application.
Apply link: https://recruit.apo.ucla.edu/JPF11286
Help contact: corinna@physics.ucla.edu
About UCLA
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
  • "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
  • APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Job location
Los Angeles, CA
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