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Metals Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

... metal dichalcogenides and related two-dimensional (2D) materials. The postdoctoral position is part of the National Science Foundation funded 2D Crystal Consortium (2DCC) Materials Innovation ...

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Metals Postdoc information

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How much do metals postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for metals postdoc in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the careers related to the study of metals?

Careers related to the study of metals include materials scientist, metallurgist, corrosion engineer, and materials engineer. These roles involve researching, developing, and testing metals and alloys, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, physics, and specialized tools like microscopy and spectroscopy.

What is a Metals Postdoc?

A Metals Postdoc is a researcher who has completed their doctoral degree and is engaged in advanced research related to metals, such as their properties, processing, and applications. These postdoctoral positions are typically temporary and are found in universities, research institutes, or industry labs. Metals Postdocs often work on projects involving metallurgy, materials science, alloy development, or characterization techniques. The goal is to deepen expertise, contribute to scientific knowledge, and prepare for a career in academia or industry.

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

To thrive as a Metals Postdoc, you need a PhD in materials science, metallurgy, or a related field with a deep understanding of metal properties and characterization techniques. Proficiency in analytical tools such as electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and computational modeling software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities help in collaborating across multidisciplinary research teams and presenting findings. These skills are crucial for advancing scientific knowledge, publishing impactful research, and contributing effectively to innovative projects in the field of metals.

How much will MIT postdoc earn in 2026?

MIT postdoctoral researchers in metals or related fields typically earn a salary that aligns with national postdoc stipend levels, which are expected to increase annually. In 2026, postdoc salaries are likely to be around $60,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, funding, and institutional policies. Additional benefits may include health insurance and research support.

Is post doc higher than PhD?

A postdoctoral position, such as a Metals Postdoc, is a temporary research role undertaken after completing a PhD. It is not considered higher than a PhD but is a step for gaining additional research experience and specialization before pursuing faculty or industry roles.

What is the salary of a postdoc?

The salary of a Metals Postdoc typically ranges from $50,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on the institution, location, and experience. Postdoctoral researchers often receive benefits such as health insurance and may have opportunities for research funding and professional development.

What is the difference between Metals Postdoc vs Materials Scientist?

AspectMetals PostdocMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related fieldMaster's or PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch laboratories, academic institutions, industry R&DResearch and development, manufacturing, academia, industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government labs, industry research centersManufacturers, research institutions, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in metals and materialsExploring career paths in materials research and development

Metals Postdocs focus on advanced research in metals, often within academic or government labs, requiring a PhD. Materials Scientists have broader roles in industry or academia, working on developing and testing materials, with educational requirements ranging from a master's to a PhD. Both roles involve research but differ in scope and application.

What are some common challenges faced by Metals Postdocs in academic research settings?

Metals Postdocs often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple research projects with tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly evolving experimental techniques, and securing funding or resources for specialized equipment. Collaboration is key, as postdocs frequently work with interdisciplinary teams including chemists, physicists, and engineers. Navigating publication pressures and building a professional network are also crucial for career advancement, making time management and communication skills essential in this role.
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What job categories do people searching Metals Postdoc jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Metals Postdoc jobs are:
Metals Postdoc jobs near you
Postdoctoral Appointee -Fabrication for Photonic and Quantum Devices

Postdoctoral Appointee -Fabrication for Photonic and Quantum Devices

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL • On-site

$72K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM) and the Materials Science Division (MSD) at Argonne National Laboratory are jointly seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to advance quantum photonic platforms through nano- and meso-scale lithographic fabrication. This position supports two complementary, three-year Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) projects focused on hybrid quantum transduction and terahertz (THz) photon generation via enhanced light-matter interactions. The postdoc will lead efforts in device patterning and the integration of complex materials-such as ferroelectrics, plasmonics, semiconductors-into photonic and THz architectures. This is an outstanding opportunity for candidates with a strong background in nanofabrication to contribute to cutting-edge quantum information science and light-matter engineering, while engaging with CNM's cleanroom and characterization capabilities, APS ultrafast and nanoprobe X-ray beamlines, MSD's THz initiatives, and Q-NEXT's national quantum ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and optimize lithographic patterning of nano- and meso-scale structures, such as gratings, waveguides, cavities, and metamaterials for quantum and THz devices
  • Integrate ferroelectric and other functional materials into photonic architectures for electro-optic and quantum transduction applications
  • Perform full device processing using cleanroom techniques, including electron-beam lithography, dry/wet etching, and metallization
  • Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team across CNM, MSD, APS, Q-NEXT to characterize device performance across structural, optical, electro-optic, and cryogenic environments
  • Participate in synchrotron-based characterization and data analysis
  • Contribute to high-impact publications, internal reports, and scientific presentations at conferences and workshops

Position Requirements
  • Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field (completed or soon-to-be-completed)
  • Demonstrated expertise in nano- and mesoscale fabrication, including mask design, metal sputtering, laser or e-beam lithography, etching, and device integration
  • Familiarity with thin-film materials (e.g., oxides, dielectrics, metals) and their integration into photonic or electronic systems
  • Hands-on experience with SEM, AFM, TEM, and other characterization tools
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with block copolymer patterning and pattern transfer techniques
  • Background in fabrication or simulation of photonic or THz devices (e.g., gratings, dielectric waveguides, ring resonators, modulators)
  • Hands-on experience in epitaxial thin-film growth and characterization (oxides preferred), using sputtering (preferred), PLD, or MBE.
  • Familiarity with synchrotron-based X-ray techniques and electron microscopy
  • Knowledge of quantum devices, nonlinear optics, or microwave photonics
  • Working knowledge of simulation tools such as COMSOL or Lumerical for electro-optic modeling

Desirable Skills
  • Proficiency in Python-based data analysis or image processing
  • Experience with AI-assisted or feedback-driven fabrication workflows
  • Interest in quantum photonic platforms, electro-optic systems, or light-matter coupling physics

Application Materials
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Cover Letter describing research experience and fit for the role
  • Contact information for three references

Job Family
Postdoctoral
Job Profile
Postdoctoral Appointee
Worker Type
Long-Term (Fixed Term)
Time Type
Full time
The expected hiring range for this position is $72,879.00-$121,465.00.
Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. 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, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.
Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!
As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.
Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.
All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.

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