ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Metals Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

... postdoctoral research position in the area of ... metal nanoparticle synthesis and spectroscopy. Research will focus on the investigation of ...

The Pennsylvania State University

Degradation, failure, and safety and sustainability of lithium-ion, lithium-metal, sodium-ion, and ... For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.) CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMetals Postdoc Jobs

Metals Postdoc information

See salary details

$13

$21

$62

How much do metals postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 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 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.

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.
More about Metals Postdoc jobs
What cities are hiring for Metals Postdoc jobs? Cities with the most Metals Postdoc job openings:
What states have the most Metals Postdoc jobs? States with the most job openings for Metals Postdoc jobs include:
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
Infographic showing various Metals Postdoc job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,777 per year, or $21 per hour.
Postdoctoral Scholar - Chemistry

Postdoctoral Scholar - Chemistry

The Pennsylvania State University

On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the termlengthdiscussed willbebasedonuniversityneed,performance,and/oravailabilityoffunding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The laboratory of Professor Kenneth Knappenberger in the Department of Chemistry, at The Pennsylvania State University, seeks to fill a postdoctoral research position in the area of metal nanoparticle synthesis and spectroscopy.

Research will focus on the investigation of structural influences on the spin and magneto-optical properties of nanoclusters and nanoparticles. The successful candidate should have extensive experience in nanocluster synthesis, composition and structure characterization, circular dichroism and magnetic field spectroscopy, and photophysics for atomically precise nanoclusters.

Applicants must have recently received, or be scheduled to receive, a Ph.D. in Chemistry by the time employment starts. The individual should be self-motivated and is expected to lead the projects, as well as contribute to collaborative research efforts. Interested and qualified applicants must submit applications electronically to include a cover letter describing your research background to include prior training, and research interests, as well as a CV.

Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Following a screening of initial application materials, candidates will be contacted by email asking for letters of reference to be sent.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.

For more detailed information, please visit ourBenefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines

Pennsylvania State University logo

About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Pennsylvania State University Jobs

Apply