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Phd In Physics Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

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Phd In Physics information

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$11.1K

$61.6K

$95.2K

How much do phd in physics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in physics in Madison, WI is $61,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $65,000.00 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 job categories do people searching Phd In Physics jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd In Physics jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Phd In Physics jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Phd In Physics job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd In Physics job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,636 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Senior Scientist I, Mechanical Engineering

AbbVie

Madison, WI • On-site

$105K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


AbbVie rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Company Description

About AbbVie

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience - and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Job Description

AbbVie's peptide discovery team in Madison, WI, is at the forefront of discovering novel molecules for therapeutic treatments.  We are seeking a creative and driven Mechanical Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will collaborate with a dedicated group of R&D scientists, engineers, and software developers to maintain and advance our proprietary peptide array synthesizers. Your work will directly contribute to accelerating the discovery of new pharmaceuticals and making a significant impact on patient outcomes.

As a key contributor, you will leverage your expertise in scientific, medical, or laboratory instrumentation to solve complex challenges. You will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of our instrumentation, from designing and modifying to integrating hardware components like sensors, actuators, pumps, and more to perform high-precision, coordinated activities.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, integrate, and test instrumentation and its subcomponents such as pump manifolds, vision systems, high-precision stages, optomechanical assemblies, and sensors.
  • Lead the mechanical design and analysis throughout all project phases, working in close partnership with software and operations teams to ensure seamless integration and optimal functionality.
  • Diagnose and resolve instrumentation issues during prototyping, production, and operations to ensure proper performance and reliability.
  • Develop and oversee the testing of design concepts or computer models to validate the functionality of new and existing systems.
  • Acquire, integrate, and analyze system data to ensure the performance and reliability of hardware and subsystems.
  • Utilize 2D and 3D CAD systems (SolidWorks) to generate design concepts, layouts, assembly drawings, and technical documentation adhering to geometric tolerancing and revision control best practices.
  • Interact with suppliers to specify and select components, ensuring all materials and parts meet project requirements.
  • Contribute to a creative and fast-paced environment through open communication with all stakeholders, sharing ideas and solutions to enhance the performance of complex systems.
  • Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, and appropriate handling of materials.
Qualifications

Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent education and typically 10 years of experience, Master's Degree or equivalent education and typically 8 years of experience, PhD or equivalent and no experience necessary
  • 2+ years of experience in developing instrumentation for laboratory, scientific, or medical applications.
  • Proficiency using SolidWorks (preferred) to create and maintain solid models, detailed drawings, and assemblies.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word).
  • Proficiency in Python or MATLAB programming languages.
  • Strong understanding of the fabrication processes for precision instrument hardware.
  • Thorough understanding of applied math, physics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot challenges in instrument development, deployment, and operation.

Preferred:

  • Experience using Tecan, Hamilton, or similar commercial liquid handling robots.
  • Experience using National Instruments (LabVIEW) or Keyence data acquisition tools.
  • Experience in designing, assembling, and evaluating optomechanical subsystems.
  • Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) or Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling in COMSOL or similar analysis software.
Additional Information

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: 

  • The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at  the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors  including  geographic location, and we may ultimately  pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be  modified in the future. 

  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.

  • This job is eligible to  participate in our short-term incentive programs.  

Note: No amount of pay is  considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned,  vested,  and determinable. The amount and availability of  any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a   particular employee  remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be  modified at the Company's sole and absolute discretion,  consistent with applicable law. 

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html

US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more:

https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html


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About AbbVie

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health, and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

North Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2013