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Experimental Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Qunett

Quantum Memory Physicist

Boston, MA · On-site

About the role Qunett is hiring an Experimental Quantum Physicist to advance the frontier of solid-state quantum memory based on group-IV color centers in diamond with a focus on the electron-nuclear ...

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Qunett

Quantum Memory Physicist

Boston, MA

About the role Qunett is hiring an Experimental Quantum Physicist to advance the frontier of solid-state quantum memory based on group-IV color centers in diamond - with a focus on the electron ...

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Quantum Physicist

Madison, WI · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

We encourage applications from experimental physicists with expertise in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics , particularly those with experience in the coherent control of quantum systems ...

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Quantum Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

We encourage applications from experimental physicists with expertise in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics , particularly those with experience in the coherent control of quantum systems ...

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Quantum Physicist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

We encourage applications from experimental physicists with expertise in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics , particularly those with experience in the coherent control of quantum systems ...

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Quantum Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

We encourage applications from experimental physicists with expertise in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics , particularly those with experience in the coherent control of quantum systems ...

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Quantum Physicist

Boulder, CO

$130K - $211K/yr

We encourage applications from experimental physicists with expertise in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics , particularly those with experience in the coherent control of quantum systems ...

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Quantum Physicist

Madison, WI · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

We encourage applications from experimental physicists with expertise in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics , particularly those with experience in the coherent control of quantum systems ...

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U.S. Dynamics Corporation

Junior Physicist

Amityville, NY · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Junior Physicist Job Summary : The Junior Physicist will work closely with senior physicists and ... Key Responsibilities : · Assist with research, experiments, and simulations under the guidance of ...

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Quantum Physicist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

We encourage applications from experimental physicists with expertise in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics , particularly those with experience in the coherent control of quantum systems ...

City of Hope

Senior Physicist

Duarte, CA

Participate in the experimental design, data collection, and data analysis in radiation physics research. * Publish results of experiments in peer-reviewed journals. * Administrative Duties: * Assist ...

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Experimental Physicist information

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$120.1K

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How much do experimental physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for experimental physicist in the United States is $120,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $166,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Experimental Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Experimental Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by at least a master's or Ph.D. in physics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory instrumentation, and familiarity with specialized equipment or safety protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for designing experiments and collaborating within research teams. These skills ensure accurate experimentation, reliable data interpretation, and successful advancement of scientific knowledge.

What are experimental physicists?

Experimental physicists are scientists who investigate the fundamental laws of nature by designing, conducting, and analyzing physical experiments. They work in laboratories or research facilities, using specialized equipment to test theories and discover new phenomena. Their work often involves developing new instruments, collecting and interpreting data, and collaborating with other scientists to advance our understanding of the physical world. Experimental physicists contribute to fields such as condensed matter, particle physics, and optics, among others.

What Do Experimental Physicists Do?

Experimental physicists conduct research to test scientific theories about the interplay of matter and energy. As an experimental physicist, your job duties include developing experiments based on the tenets of theoretical physics, utilizing sophisticated equipment to conduct your experiments and collect data, analyzing data to learn new information and contribute to innovation, determining the physical standards of various materials, and identifying new applications of the properties of energy and matter in manufacturing and industry. You can find experimental physicist jobs at research universities and in research and development for industries like aeronautics, health care, and manufacturing.

What is the difference between Experimental Physicist vs Theoretical Physicist?

AspectExperimental PhysicistTheoretical Physicist
CredentialsPhysics degree, often with lab experiencePhysics degree, advanced mathematics skills
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesOffices, computer simulations, research groups
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, labsAcademic, research, and government agencies
Primary FocusDesigning and conducting experimentsDeveloping models and theoretical frameworks

Experimental Physicists focus on hands-on experiments to test theories, while Theoretical Physicists develop models and simulations to explain physical phenomena. Both roles are essential in advancing physics but differ mainly in their approach and work environment.

What are some typical challenges experimental physicists face when conducting research, and how are they addressed?

Experimental physicists often encounter challenges such as designing complex experiments, troubleshooting sophisticated equipment, and interpreting ambiguous data. These challenges are usually addressed through close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, regular calibration and maintenance of apparatus, and iterative experimental design processes. Additionally, experimental physicists frequently consult with peers, attend conferences, and stay updated with the latest literature to adopt innovative solutions and refine their methodologies.
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Experimental Postdoc - Quantum Computing and Networking

Experimental Postdoc - Quantum Computing and Networking

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring an Experimental Physicist Postdoctoral Fellow within the ESnet division. We are launching a new multi-platform quantum computing and networking effort within ESnet, in collaboration with the AMCR and NERSC divisions of the Computing Sciences Area (CSA) at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). We are seeking a highly motivated Experimental Postdoctoral Researcher to help develop optical interconnects between different types of qubit systems. The goal of the project is to demonstrate a quantum network that enables remote entanglement and quantum teleportation between atomic and solid-state qubits, as a foundation for distributed quantum computing.
You will help build and operate two experimental platforms, laser-cooled neutral atoms and rare-earth-ion-doped crystals, and connect them via ensemble-based light-matter quantum interfaces. These systems will be further integrated with our existing trapped-ion platform to distribute entanglement across multiple qubit types. In parallel, the rare-earth solid-state system will be coupled to microwave resonators to explore future connections to superconducting qubits. The project will conclude with a demonstration of quantum gate teleportation between small-scale trapped-ion and neutral-atom processors, enabled by both single-atom and ensemble-based atomic qubits serving as optical interconnects.
As the postdoctoral researcher on this project, you will be at the center of this collaborative effort, helping define the experimental and engineering pathways required to scale heterogeneous qubit technologies into distributed quantum computers. You will work closely with and provide feedback to scientific and engineering teams to explore scalable and fault-tolerant distributed quantum computing, from experimental implementations to architectures, algorithms, and applications.
Titled "Exploring Atomic Ensemble Qubits for Distributed Quantum Computing," this LBNL-funded initiative brings together experts from the ESnet, NERSC, and AMCR divisions. This collaboration offers a unique opportunity to help shape the future of quantum computing by leveraging existing quantum networking and computing testbeds, close ties with UC Berkeley, and access to the nation's leading user facilities for high-performance computing and scientific networking. The project will also closely synergize with the QUANT-NET program (https://quantnet.lbl.gov/), sharing ion-trap-based quantum networking nodes across teams to accelerate the integration of heterogeneous qubit platforms into a distributed quantum network
We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
Why join Berkeley Lab?
We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:
  • Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans
  • A culture where you'll belong - we are invested in our teams!
  • In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
  • Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)

You will:
  • Build and commission new experimental apparatus for laser-cooled neutral-atom and/or cryogenically cooled solid-state qubit platform
  • Develop and maintain experimental control systems, including hardware, electronics
  • Perform experiments involving coherent manipulation of multi-qubit platforms and their optical interconnection for quantum networking
  • Analyze experimental results using appropriate numerical and computational techniques
  • Collaborate closely with theory teams to support experiments and develop new ideas
  • Provide technical feedback to engineering and architecture teams for evaluating practical large-scale implementations

Additional Responsibilities as needed:
  • Assist with project coordination and contribute to the preparation of project deliverables
  • Mentor graduate and undergraduate students
  • Disseminate research findings through publications in high-impact journals and presentations at national and international conferences

We are looking for:
  • Ph.D. (and/or prior postdoctoral experience) in quantum computing, quantum optics, quantum networking, or a closely related field
  • Strong experimental background in at least one qubit platform, such as neutral-atom arrays, trapped ions, rare-earth-ion-doped crystals, or other matter-based qubit systems used in quantum computing or networking
  • Extensive hands-on experience with ultra-high-vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, coherent laser systems and stabilization, and experimental electronics and control software
  • Demonstrated experience in the design and implementation of optical systems for trapping, imaging, and addressing single atoms/ions and/or photonic device development for solid-state qubit platforms
  • Solid understanding of light-matter quantum interfaces, including optical quantum memories, entangled photon sources, atom-cavity systems, and optical-domain quantum frequency conversion

Desired skills/knowledge:
  • Familiarity with theoretical frameworks and systems-engineering approaches to large-scale distributed quantum computing
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative, interdisciplinary teams composed of scientists, engineers, and students
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, with experience presenting research findings in group settings and at national/international conferences.

Additional information:
  • Appointment type: This is a full-time 2 years, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
  • Salary range: The salary range for this position is $6,924 - $8,026 and is expected to start at $6,924 or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.
  • Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
  • Work modality: Work may be performed on-site, hybrid, full-time telework. The primary location for this role is Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work must be performed within the United States.
  • Union Represented: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: 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, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

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