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Phd In Physics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Valley Health

$83.22 - $128.99/hr

Education MS or PhD in physics or medical physics required Certification & Licensures Certification in therapeutic medical physics (or therapeutic radiological physics or radiological physics)

Sentara Healthcare Inc

Medical Physicist

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other Requirements Candidates with a doctoral degree (PhD) in a field other than Medical Physics must also have completed a CAMPEP (Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs ...

ECS

Technical SETA - STO

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $230K/yr

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering * 5+ years of experience * Ability to communicate effectively with excellent oral and written skills. * Ability to learn ...

ECS

Technical SETA - STO

Arlington, VA · On-site

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering * 5+ years of experience * Ability to communicate effectively with excellent oral and written skills. * Ability to learn ...

NSS

Laser Engineer II

Herndon, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Participate in customer interactions including formal technical reviews. Required Skills and Experience BS Physics, MS or PhD preferred with a minimum of 3 years of direct hands-on laser experience ...

ECS

Technical SETA - MTO

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or similar * 5+ years of experience * Ability to communicate effectively with excellent oral and written skills. * Ability to learn new ...

SimIS Inc.

-- Nuclear Weapon Effects SME (T)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$113K - $135K/yr

...  PhD in physics, nuclear engineering, electrical engineering or related discipline from an accredited university in a technical field with six (6) years of experience PRIMARY DUTIES ...

SimIS Inc.

-- Nuclear Weapon Effects SME (T)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$113K - $135K/yr

... • PhD in physics, nuclear engineering, electrical engineering or related discipline from an accredited university in a technical field with six (6) years of experience PRIMARY DUTIES ...

Sentara Health

Radiation Physicist

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Candidates with a doctoral degree (PhD) in a field other than Medical Physics must also have completed a CAMPEP (Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs) accredited Medical ...

Sentara Healthcare

Radiation Physicist

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Candidates with a doctoral degree (PhD) in a field other than Medical Physics must also have completed a CAMPEP (Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs) accredited Medical ...

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All JobsPhd In Physics JobsPhd In Physics Jobs in Virginia

Phd In Physics information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$60.6K

$93.7K

How much do phd in physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in physics in Virginia is $60,635.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $63,900.00 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.

Are physics PhDs employable?

Physics PhDs are highly employable in a variety of fields including academia, research, engineering, data analysis, and technology. They develop skills in problem-solving, quantitative analysis, and technical communication, which are valued across many industries. However, job prospects often depend on specialization, experience, and additional skills such as programming or project management.

Is a PhD in physics worth it?

A PhD in physics prepares individuals for research, academia, and specialized roles that require advanced analytical and problem-solving skills. While it can lead to higher-level positions and increased earning potential, it often involves several years of study and research, and job prospects vary depending on the industry and location.

What can you do with a PhD in physics?

A PhD in physics prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, and industry, including roles such as physicist, research scientist, data analyst, or technical consultant. Graduates often work in laboratories, government agencies, or technology companies, utilizing skills in problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced mathematical modeling.

Where do most physics PhDs work?

Most physics PhDs work in academia as university professors or researchers, in government laboratories conducting scientific research, or in industry roles such as data analysis, engineering, or technology development. They often utilize skills in research, data modeling, and technical problem-solving, and may work in laboratories, research centers, or corporate environments.

What are popular job titles related to Phd In Physics jobs in Virginia?

For Phd In Physics jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd In Physics jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd In Physics jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd In Physics jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Phd In Physics job openings:

Phd In Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd In Physics job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,635 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Research Associate in Physics

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

212th of 625 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Department of Physics at the University of Virginia is seeking a postdoctoral research associate to work in nuclear and particle physics experiments, as well as instrumentation research and development for future experiments.
The successful candidate is expected to play a leading role in the staging, running, and data analysis of the MOLLER experiment at Jefferson Lab. The main activities will include the installation and commissioning of the Gas Electron Multiplier (GEM) tracker for the MOLLER experiment. Furthermore, the candidate will participate in the construction, installation and operation of GEM based Transition Radiation Detectors (TRD) in the Glue-X experiment in Jefferson lab Hall D. In addition, the selected candidate will contribute to research and development activities related to GEM detectors. Responsibilities will also include mentoring graduate and undergraduate students engaged in these projects.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: A PhD in experimental nuclear physics, experimental high energy physics, or related field by the start date. Experience with detector development and data acquisition systems is preferred.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0086643. Attach a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and the contact information for three individuals who can provide professional reference letters.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on September 5, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for one additional one-year term, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
The anticipated hiring range is $65,000-$72,000, commensurate with experience.
Questions regarding this position should be directed to Prof. Nilanga Liyanage at nl8n@virginia.edu .
Questions regarding the application should be directed to: Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu
A competitive salary and benefits package is offered at UVA. For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit https://postdoc.virginia.edu and http://hr.virginia.edu/benefits .
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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