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Phd Computer Science Jobs in State College, PA (NOW HIRING)

Phd Computer Science information

See State College, PA salary details

$55.3K

$81.3K

$95.8K

How much do phd computer science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd computer science in State College, PA is $81,280.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,800.00 and $91,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a PhD worth it for CS?

A PhD in Computer Science can lead to careers in academia, research, or specialized industry roles requiring advanced expertise. It typically involves several years of study and research, and is valuable for positions that demand deep technical knowledge or innovation, but may not be necessary for most industry jobs that prioritize skills and experience. The decision depends on career goals and the value placed on research and academic credentials.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD Computer Science students during their research?

PhD Computer Science students often encounter challenges such as defining a clear and impactful research problem, managing long-term projects with limited guidance, and coping with the pressure to publish in top-tier conferences or journals. Balancing coursework, teaching responsibilities, and research can also be demanding. Effective time management, networking with peers and mentors, and seeking regular feedback can help students navigate these challenges and achieve their academic goals.

What is the salary of a computer PhD?

A computer science PhD typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and experience level. Academic roles may have lower salaries, while industry positions in tech companies tend to offer higher compensation, often including bonuses and stock options.

What is a PhD in Computer Science?

A PhD in Computer Science is the highest academic degree in the field, focused on advanced research and the creation of new knowledge in computing. It typically involves several years of coursework followed by original research culminating in a dissertation. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, or advanced industry roles that require deep technical expertise and problem-solving skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Computer Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD in Computer Science, you need advanced expertise in algorithms, programming, and research methodologies, typically supported by a doctoral degree in computer science or a related field. Mastery of programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), data analysis tools, and familiarity with version control systems like Git are commonly required, along with experience in publishing academic research. Critical thinking, problem-solving, strong written and verbal communication, and perseverance are vital soft skills for success in research and collaboration. These skills and qualifications are essential for making significant contributions to the field, driving innovation, and effectively sharing knowledge with the academic and professional community.

Which CS has the highest salary?

In computer science, roles such as machine learning engineers, data scientists, and AI specialists tend to have the highest salaries due to high demand for expertise in artificial intelligence and data analysis. Senior positions with advanced skills in programming, algorithms, and cloud computing typically command top compensation, especially in tech hubs and large organizations.

What jobs can I get with a PhD in computer science?

A PhD in computer science qualifies individuals for advanced roles such as research scientist, data scientist, machine learning engineer, or university professor. These positions often require strong analytical skills, programming expertise, and knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and AI tools. Graduates may work in academia, industry research labs, or technology companies focusing on innovation and development.
What job categories do people searching Phd Computer Science jobs in State College, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Phd Computer Science jobs in State College, PA are:
What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Phd Computer Science jobs? Cities near State College, PA with the most Phd Computer Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Phd Computer Science job openings in State College, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,280 per year, or $39.1 per hour.
Open Rank Tenure Line Position in Computer Science (College of Engineering) /Huck Institute of Life

Open Rank Tenure Line Position in Computer Science (College of Engineering) /Huck Institute of Life

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 612 rated colleges and universities


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, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State University is seeking to hire multiple tenure-track or tenured faculty as part of a multi-year cluster hire focused on the intersection of computer science and the life sciences. This effort aims to strengthen the University's leadership in computational and data-driven approaches to biological, biomedical, and health-related challenges, and to advance the integration of computation into research and education across disciplines.
The Department of Computer Science within the College of Engineering, University Park, PA seeks Assistant, Associate, or Full Professors whose research and teaching advance core AI and ML theory, foundation models and generative AI, reinforcement learning and autonomous agents, hardware and systems for AI, edge and federated learning, AI security and privacy, quantum machine learning (QML), robotics, and/or AI-driven discovery in science and engineering (e.g., genomics, bioinformatics, drug discovery, infectious disease modeling, materials, and biomanufacturing). Candidates will possess a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a closely related discipline before their appointment start date at Penn State.
These faculty will complement a strong and growing cohort of researchers working at the interface of computing, biology, and medicine, including those developing novel computational methods, systems, and tools, as well as those applying data-driven techniques-such as machine learning and AI-to advance discovery in the life sciences. The University has recently expanded its educational offerings in data science, computing, and engineering, providing new opportunities to integrate computational thinking and machine learning into life science curricula.
The focus of this search is on candidates with expertise in areas such as computational biology, bioinformatics, biomedical data science, health informatics, computational genomics, systems biology, or related fields that bridge computer science and the life sciences. While experience with modern data-driven or AI-based methods is welcome, it is not required; candidates with strengths in foundational computing, modeling, simulation, systems, or data analysis approaches applied to biological or health domains are strongly encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community at Penn State and will benefit from extensive collaborative opportunities and resources provided by institutes such as the Institute for Computational and Data Sciences (including advanced computing infrastructure), the Materials Research Institute, and the Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute.
Faculty hired through this initiative will be affiliated with the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, which serves as a central hub for life sciences research at Penn State. The Huck brings together researchers from diverse fields to address fundamental biological questions and pressing societal challenges. It supports a range of centers and programs, including the Genome Sciences Institute, the Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, and interdisciplinary graduate programs in bioinformatics and genomics, as well as shared core facilities in genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and related technologies.
Successful candidates will be expected to develop internationally recognized research programs, contribute to high-quality graduate and undergraduate education, teach graduate and undergraduate courses, mentor students, and engage in interdisciplinary collaborations across campus and with external partners. They will also contribute to curriculum development that strengthens the integration of computing and life sciences.
Academic Ranks Defined:
Assistant professors should show early promise in teaching or research through emerging scholarly or professional contributions. Associate professors should have a record of high-quality publications and demonstrate teaching excellence in their field. Full professors should demonstrate a distinguished record of advanced work and leadership, reflecting established excellence in teaching, mentoring, and/or research.
Application Instructions:
Applications should be submitted online at https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Academic/REQ_0000074193
Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statements outlining plans for teaching, research, and contributing to Penn State values (https://universityethics.psu.edu/penn-state-values), and the names and contact information for four references. Please combine these materials into a single PDF file and submit your application.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits 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.
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