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Experimental Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Riverside Research

Physicist

Beavercreek, OH

$110K - $160K/yr

Position Overview Riverside Research's Applied Mathematics and Physics Solutions (AMPS) group is seeking a Physicist or Engineer to conduct experimental physics research on a variety of topics. Our ...

Quantinuum

Experimental Physicist - CO

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

We are seeking an Experimental Physicist in our Broomfield, CO location. Our team is leading the ... physics, precision spectroscopy, optics, vacuum systems, electronics, cryogenics, or laser * Due to ...

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How much do experimental physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for experimental physics in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an experimental physicist do?

Experimental physicists investigate the fundamental properties of matter, energy, and the forces of nature by conducting experiments. They design and build instruments, perform measurements, and analyze data to test scientific theories or discover new phenomena. Their work ranges from studying subatomic particles in high-energy physics to exploring new materials and technologies. Experimental physicists often collaborate with engineers, theorists, and other scientists and may work in universities, research institutes, or industry.

What are some common challenges experimental physicists face when conducting research projects?

Experimental physicists often encounter challenges such as designing and building complex apparatus, troubleshooting unexpected technical issues, and ensuring the accuracy and reproducibility of results. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams is essential, as projects may require expertise in electronics, programming, or engineering. Additionally, securing funding and access to specialized facilities can be competitive, making project planning and communication skills crucial for success.

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 solid background in physics, mathematics, and scientific methodology, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a Ph.D. in physics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you design experiments, interpret results, and collaborate with diverse research teams. These competencies are vital for advancing scientific knowledge, ensuring accurate experimentation, and making meaningful contributions to the field.

What is the difference between Experimental Physics vs Applied Physics?

AspectExperimental PhysicsApplied Physics
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, often with research experiencePhysics or engineering degree, sometimes with specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government facilitiesIndustrial labs, technology companies, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, research institutionsPrivate sector, manufacturing, technology development
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research-focused rolesExploring practical applications of physics

Experimental Physics involves conducting experiments to understand fundamental physical principles, often in academic or research settings. Applied Physics focuses on using physics principles to develop practical solutions and technologies in industry. While both roles require a strong physics background, Experimental Physics emphasizes research and discovery, whereas Applied Physics emphasizes application and product development.

How much money does an experimental physicist make?

Experimental physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles in research institutions or industry can offer higher compensation, especially for those with specialized skills and advanced degrees.

What degree do you need to be an experimental physicist?

Experimental physicists typically need at least a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field, but most positions require a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research roles. A strong background in mathematics, laboratory skills, and familiarity with scientific tools and methods are also important.
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Experimental Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Experimental Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellow in Quantum Physics

Indiana University Academic Positions

Kokomo, IN

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Title Postdoctoral Fellow in Quantum Physics Appointment Status Non-Tenure Track Department IU Bloomington Physics Location Bloomington Position Summary
A Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Quantum Optical Physics: Theoretical, Simulation, Modeling for Experimental Design
Title: Postdoctoral Fellow, physics
Appointment Status: Non-tenure track
Department: Department of Physics, Indiana University Bloomington
Location: Bloomington, Indiana, U.S.A.
Position Summary: The Department of Physics at Indiana University Bloomington invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position. This position is designed for a researcher who sits at the intersection of theoretical and experimental physics. The successful candidate will lead the architectural design/modeling/simulation of a groundbreaking experiment: the direct harvesting and extraction of quantum entanglement from the electromagnetic vacuum states. This is a design-phase experiment of the project, which requires simulations, modeling, calculation based on experimentally feasible and practical constrains and conditions to deliver an experiment-ready blueprint and architecture.
Key Research Responsibilities include: (1) Theoretical Modeling: Develop and refine models for entanglement harvesting using continuous-variable quantum information theory and Gaussian quantum states steering. (2) Experimental Simulation: Simulate the detection of vacuum fluctuations via electro-optic sampling, incorporating realistic parameters for femtosecond few-cycle laser pulses, terahertz bandwidths, and detector electronics. (3) System Architecture: Define the critical engineering requirements (optical pulse duration, terahertz crystal materials in cryogenetic environments, signal-to-noise ratio optimization, entanglement witnesses and verification) necessary to resolve the entangled vacuum variance.
Relevant keywords of this project in experiment includes: electro-optic sampling, terahertz pulses, femtosecond laser pulses, ultrafast optics, carrier-envelope phase/offset, balanced homodyne detection; keywords in theory includes: relativistic quantum information science, quantum field theory, quantum optics, quantum fluctuations of the vacuum, Unruh-DeWitt detector model, entanglement harvesting, entanglement witness.
In this exciting role and project, you will work under the direction of Prof. Chen-Ting Liao and in collaboration with other team members and collaborators. For additional information about the Liao research group, please visit: https://sites.google.com/view/chentingliao/
Department Contact for Questions: Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to Prof. Chen-Ting Liao (Liao3[at]IU.edu)
Basic Qualifications:
Eligibility according to the project sponsor: (1) U.S. citizenship, or (2) U.S. Permanent Resident/Green Card holder, or (3) in the application process to become a U.S. Permanent Resident/Green Card holder.
Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Quantum Information Science, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field at the time of appointment. (ABD candidates will be considered).
Demonstrated ability to bridge theoretical concepts with physical realizability.
Strong track record of scientific research and peer-reviewed publications.
Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
High degree of independence and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
Additional Qualifications:
Theory: Expertise in quantum optics, quantum information science, or quantum field theory.
Simulation: Proficiency in MATLAB or Python for simulation/modeling and data analysis.
Experience with COMSOL Multiphysics and/or Lumerical is a plus.
Experiment: Familiarity with ultrafast optics, terahertz generation, or balanced homodyne detection is highly desirable.
Design: some experience using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for experimental layouts is advantageous.
Required Documents: (1) Curriculum Vitae (including completed degrees, list of publications, research experience, and expertise), (2) Letter of Application (cover letter), (3) contact information of at least two references. Applications should be submitted through the application portal located at: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/31923
Expected Start Date: Summer 2026. Applications will be reviewed starting on 2/15/26 and will continue until the position is filled.
Salary and Rank: $54-59K/yr, Postdoctoral Fellow. The initial appointment for this position will be for 2 years. Additional 1 year extension will be available based on performance, mutual agreement, and funding availability of the phase II of the project. A competitive benefits package will be offered by the University.

Basic Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
Eligibility according to the project sponser: (1) U.S. citizenship, or (2) U.S. Permanent Resident/Green Card holder, or (3) in the application process to become a U.S. Permanent Resident/Green Card holder.
Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Quantum Information Science, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field at the time of appointment. (ABD candidates will be considered).
Demonstrated ability to bridge theoretical concepts with physical realizability.
Strong track record of scientific research and peer-reviewed publications.
Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
High degree of independence and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
Department Contact for Questions
Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to Prof. Chen-Ting Liao (Liao3[at]IU.edu)
Additional Qualifications
Additional Qualifications:
Theory: Expertise in quantum optics, quantum information science, or quantum field theory.
Simulation: Proficiency in MATLAB or Python for simulation/modeling and data analysis.
Experience with COMSOL Multiphysics and/or Lumerical is a plus.
Experiment: Familiarity with ultrafast optics, terahertz generation, or balanced homodyne detection is highly desirable.
Design: some experience using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for experimental layouts is advantageous.
Salary and Rank Special Instructions For Best Consideration Date 02/15/2026 Expected Start Date 07/01/2026 Posting Number IU-101463-2026

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