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Materials Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

D. in experimental condensed-matter physics, materials physics, applied physics, materials science and engineering, or a closely related field. Preferred Qualifications Strong background in ...

... materials for new novel applications. Qualifications: * PhD in physics, quantum optics, quantum information or equivalent combination of education and related experience * Advanced knowledge in ...

... materials for new novel applications. Qualifications: * PhD in physics, quantum optics, quantum information or equivalent combination of education and related experience * Advanced knowledge in ...

... materials for new novel applications. Qualifications: * PhD in physics, quantum optics, quantum information or equivalent combination of education and related experience * Advanced knowledge in ...

Support cadets in mastering course material through structured academic guidance. Qualifications: * Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree in Physics or a closely related field. * Minimum one (1) ...

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Materials Physics information

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$11K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do materials physics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for materials physics in the United States is $61,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is materials physics?

Materials physics is a branch of physics that studies the physical properties of materials, such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and semiconductors. It focuses on understanding how the structure of materials at the atomic or molecular level influences their behavior and performance in various applications. Materials physicists use experimental, theoretical, and computational methods to investigate phenomena like conductivity, magnetism, and mechanical strength. Their research is essential for developing new materials with improved properties for use in technology, energy, healthcare, and other fields.

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

To thrive as a Materials Physicist, you need a strong background in condensed matter physics, materials science, and advanced mathematics, typically supported by a related graduate degree. Experience with analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and computational modeling software, as well as familiarity with laboratory safety protocols, is essential. Critical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collaborating on research and presenting findings. These competencies ensure effective investigation, innovation, and real-world application of new materials in diverse industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in materials physics research roles?

Professionals in materials physics often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving technologies and techniques, managing complex experimental setups, and interpreting highly detailed data. Collaboration is key, as projects frequently involve interdisciplinary teams of engineers, chemists, and other physicists. Researchers must also balance time between hands-on lab work, data analysis, and writing or presenting findings, which can be demanding but highly rewarding for those passionate about innovation.

What is the difference between Materials Physics vs Materials Science?

AspectMaterials PhysicsMaterials Science
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Materials Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, R&D departmentsManufacturing, product development, research labs
Industry UsageFocuses on understanding physical properties of materialsFocuses on designing and developing new materials
Common Search/ComparisonMaterials Physics vs Materials Science

Materials Physics primarily emphasizes understanding the physical properties and behaviors of materials, often through theoretical and experimental physics approaches. Materials Science, on the other hand, concentrates on designing, developing, and applying new materials for practical use. Both roles often overlap in research settings and require similar educational backgrounds, but their focus areas differ—Materials Physics leans more toward fundamental physical principles, while Materials Science emphasizes application and engineering.

What does a materials physicist do?

A materials physicist studies the physical properties of materials, such as metals, ceramics, and polymers, to understand their structure and behavior. They often use techniques like microscopy and spectroscopy, and work in research labs or industry to develop new materials or improve existing ones for applications in electronics, energy, and manufacturing.
More about Materials Physics jobs

What cities are hiring for Materials Physics jobs?

Cities with the most Materials Physics job openings:

What states have the most Materials Physics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Materials Physics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Materials Physics job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,160 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar Series in Physics and Astronomy (Open Search)

Riverside, CA • On-site

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

$69K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


University Of California Riverside rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position overview
Position title: POSTDOC-EMPLOYEE, POSTDOC-EMPLOYEE, POSTDOC-PAID DIRECT, POSTDOC-PAID DIRECT, INTRM POSTDOC SCHOLAR-EMPLOYEE
Salary range: $69,073 to $85,736
Application Window
Open date: August 26, 2026
Most recent review date: Wednesday, Sep 9, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.
Final date: Wednesday, Jun 30, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of California, Riverside anticipates openings for appointments in the Postdoctoral Scholar Series.
Postdoctoral Scholars contribute to the academic community by enhancing the research and education programs of the University. They bring expertise and creativity that enrich the research environment for all members of the University community, including graduate and undergraduate students. Postdoctoral Scholars work under the supervision of a faculty mentor and contribute to the intellectual environment of the research group and the broader academic community.
Candidates should demonstrate strong research potential, advanced knowledge in their area of study, and a commitment to further developing their expertise. Appointments in this series are intended to provide a period of advanced training and professional development in preparation for independent careers.
Initial appointments are typically for a two-year term, subject to exceptions, and may be eligible for renewal. Salary and level will be determined based on qualifications and experience. The current base pay range for this position is $69,073 to $85,736.
Basic qualifications required at the time of application include: Applicants must possess a Ph.D. degree by date of employment.
To apply, please submit the following materials to [ https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF02326]:
• Curriculum Vitae (required)
• Cover Letter (optional)
Review of applications will begin on September 9, 2026.
For questions regarding application procedures or requirements, please contact Rebecca Nistor, Academic Personnel, at rebecca.nistor@ucr.edu .
Qualifications
Basic qualifications (required at time of application)
Applicants must possess a Ph.D. degree in one of the following fields of study by date of employment: Engineering Physics/Applied Physics, Biophysics, Biological and Physical Sciences, Physical Sciences, General Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, Atomic/Molecular Physics, Elementary Particle Physics, Nuclear Physics, Optics/Optical Sciences, Condensed Matter and Materials Physics, and Materials Sciences.
Preferred qualifications
A commitment to the UCR mission ( https://apro.ucr.edu/mission-statement ) is a preferred qualification.
Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
  • Cover Letter (Optional)

Reference requirements
Reference Letters are not required for this recruitment.
Apply link: https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/JPF02326
Help contact: rebecca.nistor@ucr.edu
About UC Riverside
The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) and the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU). A commitment to the UCR mission ( https://apro.ucr.edu/mission-statement ) is a preferred qualification.
We seek to hire scholars who will both advance our research directions and effectively educate our undergraduate and graduate students, while also engaging with University and Professional service activities. Research and teaching statements that are included with application materials are opportunities for candidates to share knowledge, experience, and goals that support the mission of UCR. For more information on UC's criteria for successful faculty, refer to the Academic Personnel Manual (APM) 210 - Criteria for Appointment, Promotion, and Appraisal ( https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/apm/apm-210.pdf ). For Non-Senate faculty positions, review criteria and duties are governed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement.
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 categories under state or federal law. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.
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.
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 or discrimination, as defined by the employer. A Misconduct Disclosure Survey will be completed through Truescreen, which is the vendor that administers this process for the campus.
For the University of California's Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy please visit:
https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000385/SVSH .
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students, and Third Parties, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination .
For the University of California's Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment Policy, please visit: https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/apm/apm-035.pdf .
Job location
Riverside, CA

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