1

Phd Materials Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field -- OR MS with 3+ years of relevant experience -- OR BS with 6+ years of relevant experience * Hands-on proficiency with XPS, SEM, AFM ...

Master's degree preferred, PhD highly desirable. * Minimum six (6) years of experience conducting ... Experience preparing technical reports, briefing materials, scientific communications, and ...

D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Computer Science, or a related field. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a ...

... materials, presentations, and stakeholder-facing products to communicate research findings and ... Master's degree preferred, PhD highly desirable. * Minimum six (6) years of experience conducting ...

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 ...

PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology ... materials science or electronics)

Required Qualifications - PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Biological Sciences, Chemistry or related field. - PhD must be awarded no more than ...

... materials, presentations, and stakeholder-facing products to communicate research findings and ... Master's degree preferred, PhD highly desirable. * Minimum six (6) years of experience conducting ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Phd Materials Science information

See Virginia salary details

$52.5K

$122.9K

$171.5K

How much do phd materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd materials science in Virginia is $122,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,700.00 and $165,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in materials science?

A PhD in Materials Science is an advanced research degree focused on the study of the properties, structure, performance, and applications of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. Students in this program conduct original research to develop new materials or improve existing ones for use in various industries, including electronics, aerospace, energy, and healthcare. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or industry, where they contribute to innovations in technology and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in materials science?

To thrive as a PhD in Materials Science, you need advanced knowledge in physics, chemistry, and engineering principles, along with a doctoral degree in the field. Expertise in analytical techniques (like SEM, TEM, XRD), materials characterization tools, and proficiency in scientific programming or data analysis software are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective scientific communication help researchers excel and drive innovation. These skills enable the development of new materials and technologies, essential for progress across industries such as electronics, energy, and manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD holders in materials science when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

PhD holders in Materials Science may encounter challenges such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, learning to prioritize commercially viable outcomes over purely theoretical research, and collaborating with cross-functional teams from engineering, manufacturing, and business. Industry roles often require clear communication of complex findings to non-specialists and adjusting to structured project management systems. However, these challenges also offer opportunities for professional growth, broader impact, and the chance to see research translated into real-world products.

What is the difference between Phd Materials Science vs Materials Engineer?

AspectPhd Materials ScienceMaterials Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Materials Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsManufacturing, product development, industry labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, advanced R&DManufacturers, aerospace, automotive, electronics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic vs industry roles, research focusPractical application, product development, industry roles

The main difference between Phd Materials Science and Materials Engineer lies in their focus and work environment. PhD holders typically engage in research, academia, and advanced R&D, while Materials Engineers focus on applying materials knowledge in manufacturing and product development within industry settings.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Materials Science jobs in Virginia?

For Phd Materials Science jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd Materials Science jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Phd Materials Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Materials Science job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,910 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

DARPA SETA Physical Chemist/Materials Scientist SME

Pae

Arlington, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Amentum is a leading provider of engineering, scientific, and program management support services to some of the top agencies in the U.S. government, including the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), NASA, the Department of Homeland Security, and the intelligence community.

Amentum is currently seeking talented, enthusiastic, and dynamic individuals to support DARPA in formulating, monitoring, and transitioning advanced research and development programs to the U.S. military in multiple areas, including physical chemistry, chemical analysis, chemical sensing, corrosion, and materials sciences.

This is a full-time position based in Arlington, VA, with the opportunity for remote work.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Provide Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) and Subject Matter Expertise (SME) to DARPA in the execution of advanced technology, research, and prototype demonstration programs.

  • Candidates will lead SETA technical and management teams.

  • Candidates will serve as a primary support contractor to DARPA Program Managers, DARPA leadership, performers, integrated product teams (IPTs), and the research and development communities across industry, academia, and the Government.

  • Support the identification and implementation of new program concepts.

  • Provide program management and acquisition support.

  • Identify and translate requirements into technology research and development objectives.

  • Perform independent technical assessments of new technologies and system designs, including evaluation of alternatives, trade studies, and cost-benefit analyses.

  • Support technical interchange meetings and design reviews.

  • Support program experimentation and testing efforts, including preparation of experiment/test plans and coordination with performers, government agents, test ranges, and test facilities.

  • Author program briefings and technical reports.

  • Candidates will travel approximately 25% of the time.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry, materials science, or a related field with a minimum of 10 years of experience

  • Demonstrated subject matter expertise in the areas of physical chemistry or material sciences, advising multiple efforts

  • Experience in relevant defense-related technology research and/or development programs.

  • Ability to provide practical and creative solutions in a dynamic work environment, while working effectively with a team.

  • Technical leadership experience and superior oral and written communication skills

  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a rapidly evolving environment

  • Must have an active US Government Secret Clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI Clearance. Please note US citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance and TS/SCI

Desired Qualifications:

  • DAPRA program support experience

  • Ability to quickly identify and resolve program execution risks, mitigations, and issues

  • Candidates should be self-starters capable of working both independently and as part of a team

  • Master's degree or PhD

  • Active US Government TS Clearance with SCI eligibility. Please note US Citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a TS Clearance with SCI eligibility

Compensation Details:

$150K-$200K

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

04/22/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.