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Nuclear Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advanced training, experience, and knowledge in the field of nuclear spectroscopy as demonstrated in the resume by a minimum of an advanced degree in Nuclear Physics or Nuclear Engineering and a ...

String Theory, Quantum Field Theory, Particle Physics, and Nuclear Physics * General Relativity, Astrophysics, and Cosmology What You'll Do * Create challenging, graduate-level physics problems ...

Reactor multi-physics analysis, especially pertaining to transient analysis. * Nuclear analysis software development, verification, and validation. * Other areas of nuclear engineering or nuclear ...

Deep knowledge of IB Physics curriculum covering mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic and nuclear physics, and additional HL topics ...

Deep knowledge of IB Physics curriculum covering mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic and nuclear physics, and additional HL topics ...

Deep knowledge of IB Physics curriculum covering mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic and nuclear physics, and additional HL topics ...

Deep knowledge of IB Physics curriculum covering mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic and nuclear physics, and additional HL topics ...

Deep knowledge of IB Physics curriculum covering mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic and nuclear physics, and additional HL topics ...

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How much do nuclear physics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear physics in the United States is $115,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,500.00 and $131,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear physicists in experimental research settings?

Nuclear physicists in experimental research often face challenges related to the complexity and precision required in experiments, such as maintaining the safety of high-energy equipment and minimizing experimental errors. They must also work with highly sensitive instruments and analyze large data sets, which requires strong technical skills and attention to detail. Collaboration is key, as projects typically involve multidisciplinary teams including engineers, technicians, and other scientists. Managing time effectively between laboratory work, data analysis, and reporting results is essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Nuclear Physics vs Nuclear Engineering?

AspectNuclear PhysicsNuclear Engineering
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, often with a PhD in physics or related fieldEngineering degree, often with a bachelor's or master's in nuclear engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesPower plants, medical facilities, research reactors
Industry UsageFundamental research, academic institutionsDesign, operation, and safety of nuclear systems

Nuclear Physics focuses on understanding atomic nuclei and fundamental particles, often in research settings. Nuclear Engineering applies this knowledge to develop and operate nuclear systems, such as reactors and medical equipment. While both fields require a strong background in physics and related credentials, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Physicist, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and data analysis, typically supported by a PhD in nuclear or particle physics. Familiarity with advanced laboratory equipment, simulation software, and programming languages such as Python or C++ is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help nuclear physicists stand out in research and collaborative environments. These skills and qualities are vital for conducting accurate experiments, interpreting complex data, and advancing scientific understanding in the field.

What is nuclear physics?

Nuclear physics is a branch of physics that studies the structure, properties, and behavior of atomic nuclei and the fundamental forces and particles involved. It explores phenomena such as radioactivity, nuclear reactions, and the interactions between protons and neutrons within the nucleus. Nuclear physics has many practical applications, including nuclear energy production, medical imaging (such as PET scans), and cancer treatments (radiation therapy). Researchers in this field use both experimental and theoretical approaches to understand nuclear matter and its role in the universe.
More about Nuclear Physics jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Physics jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Physics job openings:
What states have the most Nuclear Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Physics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Physics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,106 per year, or $55.3 per hour.
Postdoctoral Associate/Senior Research Associate in Experimental Nuclear Physics

Postdoctoral Associate/Senior Research Associate in Experimental Nuclear Physics

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

214th of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Postdoctoral Associate/Senior Research Associate in Experimental Nuclear Physics

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 534266
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Science
Department: Physics
Location: Newport News, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific

Job Description

The nuclear physics group of Prof. M. Boer at Virginia Tech is inviting applications for a postdoctoral research associate position or senior research associate position. The successful candidate will work on designing future experiments aiming at measuring Double Deeply Virtual Compton Scattering at Jefferson Lab, in Hall A with the SoLID spectrometer and in Hall C in a dedicated setup. Our group is currently developing GEANT4 simulations and making physics projections. Our goal is to improve the design of the SoLID muon detector and preparing a proposal for a dedicated experiment in Hall C. If the candidate has experience with data analysis in the GlueX collaboration, we will consider the possibility to analyze data in support to the Generalized Parton Distributions program. The successful candidate is expected to work closely with our collaborators, including other postdocs and students. The position will be based full time at Jefferson Lab, Newport News, VA. Note that this is a limited term appointment with an end date of May 2026 and no possibility for renewal. Review of applications starts immediately and the position will remain open until filled. Preferred starting date is October 2025. More information about our activities and group composition can be found on the group's webpage: https://boer.phys.vt.edu

Required Qualifications

- All candidates must have a PhD in Experimental Nuclear Physics by the appointment start date.
- Ability to communicate and to collaborate with other members of the group and of the collaboration.
- A good record of past research articles, presentations at conferences, experimental notes and/or contributions to peer reviewed papers, in accordance with the level of the candidate.
- Knowledge of Linux environment and coding in C/C++/Fortran or a similar language, experience with software. Experience with GEANT4 simulations. Experience with data analysis is a plus.
- Experience with one of Jefferson Lab experiment is preferred.
- Postdoctoral Associate applicants: Must have earned their PhD within the past 4 years.
- Senior Research Associate applicants: Must have a PhD in Experimental Nuclear Physics and at least 4 years of prior postdoctoral experience

 

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience

Hours per week

40 hours - exempt position

Review Date

September 29, 2025

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jackie Woodyard at woodyaj@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: September 19, 2025
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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