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Material Science Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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R&D Scientist

Newark, DE · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

The R&D Scientist will explore and develop novel base materials for stationary phase in ... PhD degree in material science, polymer science, synthetic chemistry, or related disciplines. * 1 ...

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Material Science Research information

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$29.5K

$95.3K

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How much do material science research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science research in the United States is $95,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a material science research?

A Material Science Research job involves studying and developing new materials or improving existing ones for various applications. Researchers analyze the structure, properties, and performance of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. They work in industries like aerospace, electronics, energy, and healthcare to enhance material efficiency, durability, and sustainability. This role often includes laboratory experiments, computational modeling, and collaboration with engineers and scientists to develop innovative solutions.

What does a material science research do?

Material Science Researchers often work on projects that involve designing, synthesizing, and characterizing new materials or improving the properties of existing materials for applications in industries like aerospace, electronics, energy, or healthcare. Daily responsibilities may include planning and conducting experiments, analyzing test results, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and preparing technical reports or publications. Depending on the organization, you might also contribute to patent filings, prototype development, or scaling up processes for manufacturing. This role offers variety and intellectual challenge, as each project can present unique scientific puzzles and opportunities for innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in material science research?

A career in Material Science Research requires a solid background in physics, chemistry, and engineering principles, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in materials science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, analytical software (such as SEM, TEM, XRD), and data analysis tools is essential, and professional certifications can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, teamwork, and effective written and verbal communication help researchers thrive in multidisciplinary environments. These skills are vital for conducting rigorous investigations, interpreting complex data, and driving innovation in material development and applications.

More about Material Science Research jobs

What cities are hiring for Material Science Research jobs?

Cities with the most Material Science Research job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Material Science Research jobs?

The most popular types of Material Science Research jobs are:

What states have the most Material Science Research jobs?

States with the most job openings for Material Science Research jobs include:

Infographic showing various Material Science Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,315 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Life Science Research Professional 2

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Stanford University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Stanford Shared FACS Facility is seeking a Life Science Research Professional 2 to join our highly collaborative service center team. As one of the most heavily utilized flow cytometry facilities on campus, we provide consistent, high-quality, state-of-the-art cytometry and cell sorting services to researchers across Stanford University and to external academic and industry partners in the region.

This role is ideal for an energetic, service-oriented scientist who enjoys working with a diverse community of researchers and contributing directly to a wide range of cutting-edge research projects. If you are passionate about teaching, learning, and problem-solving-and thrive in a fast-paced laboratory environment-this position offers an exceptional opportunity.

As a Flow Cytometry Specialist, you will apply your expertise to support, train, and collaborate with researchers on flow cytometry and cell sorting experiments. You will assist with experimental design, troubleshooting, multicolor analysis, and advanced sorting applications, while continually expanding your technical skills through exposure to novel research and emerging technologies. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple priorities are essential.

Join a dynamic team of dedicated professionals and play a key role in advancing research across many scientific disciplines at Stanford.

Key Responsibilities*:

  • Independently operate flow cytometry analyzers and cell sorters in a shared service center environment.
  • Perform routine instrument startup, quality control, and maintenance.
  • Provide training and support to users, including self-operators, on flow cytometry analyzer and sorter instrumentation and software.
  • Assist researchers with experimental design, optimization, data acquisition, and data interpretation.
  • Troubleshoot technical and experimental issues and support implementation of instrument and software updates.
  • Serve as a resource for biological applications, cell handling techniques, and reagent selection.
  • Perform non-routine instrument maintenance and coordinate with manufacturer service as needed.
  • Maintain laboratory operations, including inventory management, chemical and safety records, and general lab support.
  • Work a flexible schedule and operate in a BSL-2 laboratory environment to meet facility needs.

*-Other duties may be assigned.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • The requisite combination of education and/or experience in the field to work independently, and to serve as a resource for users; to train new users, and help self-operators solve problems with their instrument operations
  • A highly qualified candidate will have 2 or more years experience with one or more of the following instrumentation systems: BD FACSAria/Fusion/S8, BD Symphony, Cytek Aurora and Aurora CS, Sony sorters, Agilent spectral and traditional analyzers OR one year experience operating a flow cytometer and additional 2 years of experience in a related field or in education

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience; or Master's degree in a related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

  • Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
  • General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
  • Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
  • Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
  • Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

  • Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
  • Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
  • Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
  • Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
  • Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
  • Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
  • May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
  • Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
  • Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
  • May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS:

  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

The expected pay range for this position is $85,376 to $99,581 per annum.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford's extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.


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