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Phd In Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mercor

Physics PhD - Theoretical Expert

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$70 - $180/hr

Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark , General Catalyst , Peter Thiel , Adam D'Angelo , Larry Summers , and Jack Dorsey . Position: Physics PhD (Top 50 Program, US/UK/CA ...

Dartmouth College

Lecturer in Physics

Hanover, NH · On-site

Qualifications PhD in physics, astronomy, or engineering, or a closely related field, by the start date. Scholars who are currently ABD are welcome to apply, provided that they will have their PhD in ...

Weekday AI

Physics AI Trainer (PhD)

$70 - $85/hr

We require your help in building these models much better (and thereby expansion of human ... PhD in Physics from a top tier university Work experience : 2+ years of academic experience ...

Macmillan

Physics Content Developer (Contract)

$30 - $35/hr

MS or PhD in Physics; PhD in progress will be considered Pay Rate: $30 - 35/hour, depending on experience Hours: 10-15 hours per week Assignment Duration: 3 to 4months, depending on project needs ...

Applied Physics

Experimental Physicist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

PhD in physics, quantum optics, quantum information or equivalent combination of education and related experience * Advanced knowledge in circuit quantum electrodynamics and quantum control theory

Applied Physics

Experimental Physicist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

PhD in physics, quantum optics, quantum information or equivalent combination of education and related experience * Advanced knowledge in circuit quantum electrodynamics and quantum control theory

Applied Physics

Experimental Physicist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

PhD in physics, quantum optics, quantum information or equivalent combination of education and related experience * Advanced knowledge in circuit quantum electrodynamics and quantum control theory

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Phd In Physics information

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$11K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do phd in physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in 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 a PhD in Physics?

A PhD in Physics is the highest academic degree awarded in the field of physics. It involves several years of advanced coursework, independent research, and the completion of a dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field. Earning a PhD prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, industry, and government, where they can apply their deep understanding of physical principles to solve complex problems. The process typically takes 4-6 years beyond a bachelor's or master's degree.

What are the common career paths available to someone with a PhD in Physics outside of academia?

A PhD in Physics opens doors to a wide range of career paths beyond academia, including roles in industry research and development, data science, finance, technology consulting, and government or national laboratories. Many physicists find rewarding careers in sectors like aerospace, energy, and healthcare, leveraging their problem-solving and analytical skills. Collaboration is often key, as you'll work with interdisciplinary teams of engineers, data analysts, and project managers. Transitioning into these roles may involve learning new tools or adapting to different team structures, but the foundational skills from your PhD are highly valued.

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

To thrive as a PhD in Physics, you need advanced knowledge of physical theories, strong analytical skills, and experience in research methodologies, typically supported by a doctoral degree in physics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis tools (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and scientific publishing systems is commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for presenting complex ideas and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting impactful research, advancing scientific understanding, and succeeding in academic or industry settings.

What is the difference between Phd In Physics vs Physicist?

AspectPhd In PhysicsPhysicist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in PhysicsTypically a PhD in Physics or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academiaResearch institutions, industry, academia
Industry UsageAcademic and research-focused rolesResearch, development, applied physics roles
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic qualificationsCareer options and job roles

In summary, a Phd In Physics is an academic qualification, while a Physicist is a professional working in research or industry. The Phd is necessary to become a Physicist, but not all Physicists hold a PhD. The roles often overlap in research environments, but the PhD emphasizes education, whereas Physicist roles focus on applying physics principles.

More about Phd In Physics jobs
What cities are hiring for Phd In Physics jobs? Cities with the most Phd In Physics job openings:
What states have the most Phd In Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Phd In Physics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Phd In Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Phd In Physics jobs are:
Phd In Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd In Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,160 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Physics PhD - Theoretical Expert

Mercor

San Francisco, CA • On-site, Remote

$70 - $180/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: Physics PhD (Top 50 Program, US/UK/CA)
Type: Contract
Compensation: $70–$180/hour
Location: Remote

Role Responsibilities

  • Solve and evaluate challenging physics problems across various subfields.
  • Review AI-generated proofs, derivations, and solutions for correctness, rigor, and clarity.
  • Identify gaps, inconsistencies, or unsupported reasoning in model outputs.
  • Apply relevant citations, principles, and formal reasoning where appropriate.
  • Work independently to complete tasks within 24 hours when work is available.
  • Collaborate asynchronously with AI research teams to improve AI systems' reasoning capabilities.

Qualifications

Must-Have

  • PhD in Physics from a top 50 physics program in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada.
  • Degree must be in Physics rather than applied physics, engineering, or a closely related applied discipline.
  • Strong graduate-level problem-solving ability across advanced physics topics.
  • Ability to clearly articulate reasoning, reference relevant theorems or principles, and identify gaps in written solutions.
  • Able to commit approximately 15 hours per week.

Preferred

  • Ideally active in research or academia.

Start Date

  • Available to begin immediately

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

  • Submit your resume.
  • Complete an interview to get started (if we do not have one already on file).

Resources & Support

  • For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
  • For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.