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Phd Program Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

QualificationsEnrolled in an Industrial Organizational Psychology Master's Degree or PhD program.GPA minimum of 3.0 is required.Must be available to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks, though ...

Qualifications Enrolled in an Industrial Organizational Psychology Master's Degree or PhD program. GPA minimum of 3.0 is required. Must be available to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks ...

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Phd Program information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$26.8K

$97.2K

$126.1K

How much do phd program jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd program in Irvine, CA is $97,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,200.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD program?

A PhD program is an advanced academic course of study that culminates in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. It typically involves several years of original research, coursework, and comprehensive exams, followed by the completion and defense of a dissertation. PhD programs are designed for individuals who wish to pursue careers in academia, research, or highly specialized professional fields. Admission is competitive and usually requires a master's degree or equivalent experience. Successful graduates are recognized as experts in their chosen fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a PhD program?

To thrive in a PhD program, you need advanced subject knowledge, strong research skills, and typically a master's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with academic databases, data analysis software (like SPSS, R, or Python), and citation management tools is often required. Exceptional critical thinking, time management, perseverance, and written and verbal communication skills set successful candidates apart. These abilities are crucial for conducting independent research, contributing original knowledge, and navigating the rigorous demands of doctoral study.

What are some common challenges students face during a PhD program and how can they be addressed?

PhD students often encounter challenges such as managing a heavy workload, maintaining motivation during long research projects, and balancing research with teaching or other commitments. Navigating ambiguous research directions and handling setbacks are also frequent hurdles. Building a strong support network, seeking regular feedback from advisors, and engaging with peers can help address these challenges. Many universities offer resources like counseling, writing workshops, and career guidance to support PhD students throughout their journey.

What is the difference between Phd Program vs Research Scientist?

AspectPhd ProgramResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree; pursuing or completed PhDUsually requires a PhD or equivalent research experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, universities, research labs during studyIndustry labs, corporate R&D, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and research institutionsPrivate companies, government agencies, biotech, tech firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding educational pathways and research rolesCareer progression and industry research roles

The main difference is that a Phd Program is an educational pathway focused on earning a doctorate degree, often in academia or research training, while a Research Scientist is a professional role in industry or research institutions, typically requiring a PhD and involving applied research work.

What career can you get with a Phd Program?

A PhD program prepares individuals for careers in academia, research, and specialized industry roles. Graduates often become university professors, researchers, scientists, or work in policy, consulting, or leadership positions that require advanced expertise and analytical skills.

What jobs can you do with a Phd Program?

A PhD program prepares individuals for careers in academia, research, and specialized industry roles such as data scientist, research scientist, university professor, or policy analyst. It develops advanced skills in critical thinking, analysis, and project management, often requiring expertise in a specific field and proficiency with research tools and methodologies.

What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Phd Program jobs?

Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Phd Program job openings:

Graduate Research Student Assistant - CREST Grant - #738592324

CAL POLY POMONA FOUNDATION

Pomona, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description
Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises Employment Services
ANNOUNCEMENT OF POSITION VACANCY
SUMMARY: The Center for Research Advancement in Smart Manufacturing (CREST-RASM) at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP), funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), is seeking Part-Time Graduate Research Student Assistants to work under the supervision of Dr. Fatemeh Jamshidi, Dr. Mingyan Xiao, Dr. Ellips Masehian, Dr. Zahra Sotoudeh, or Dr. Shokoufeh Mirzaei.
CREST-RASM is seeking motivated Master's-level graduate students to engage in innovative, interdisciplinary research aligned with the center's mission in smart manufacturing, artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced systems integration.
Graduate Research Students Assistants will have the opportunity to apply to the CREST-RASM PhD Pathway Program. This program establishes a pathway from CPP's Master's programs to the UCR STEM PhD programs. Each year, one to two highly successful Graduate Research Assistants will be selected to join the CREST-RASM PhD Pathway Program with University of California, Riverside (UCR). Selected participants will receive additional funding to support their MS program tuition fees and special consideration for admission into UCR's PhD programs in STEM disciplines. Students selected and admitted into the UCR PhD program will receive a funding package, including tuition, fees, and stipend support for up to two years, from the Cal Poly Pomona CREST grant toward their PhD with potential supplement funding from UCR in subsequent years. This initiative aims to prepare and support students for success in PhD studies and advanced STEM careers.
ABOUT US: As the largest employer of students on the Cal Poly Pomona campus, the Enterprises offers valuable work experience and hands-on training to approximately 1,500 Cal Poly Pomona students each year. The Enterprises offers positions in various fields; whether it is in the area of technology, science, retail, culinary arts, hospitality 1500 management, leadership or research grants, these student employees participate in Cal Poly Pomona's learn-by-doing philosophy and acquire practical skills in their designated field of study.
The Enterprises also contributes operating support to nearly 1,100 Enterprises and scholarship programs every year, including Bronco Athletics and the Pepsi Scholarship. In addition, the Enterprises administers grants and contracts, contributes to campus security, and supports several university publications. The Enterprises contributes over $1 million annually to Cal Poly Pomona.
SOME OF THE THINGS THAT YOU WILL GET TO DO (this is just a small sampling of work variety):
The position will assist with one or more of the following activities:
  • Be available to dedicate 10-20 hours per week during academic semesters and summer for research.
  • Conduct high-quality graduate-level research in one or more areas: computer vision, robotics, Al, smart manufacturing, mechanical/electrical systems, or cyber-physical infrastructure.
  • Work under the supervision of CPP faculty Principal Investigators.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of graduate students, undergraduate, and faculty across institutions.
  • Engage in professional development activities including grant proposal support, and conference presentations.
  • Prepare and present research findings in group meetings, seminars, and publications.
  • Support the recruitment and mentoring of undergraduate students participating in CREST-RASM.
  • Collaborate and create synergy with Other Subprojects

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • US citizenship is required
  • Current enrollment (or admission) in a CPP Master's program in Engineering, Computer Science, or other closely related STEM discipline.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, write theoretical research papers, and deliver professional research presentations.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with others.
  • Ability to quickly read, understand, and synthesize theoretical conference and journal papers.

Preferred
  • Demonstrated interest in pursuing a PhD and a long-term career in research, academia, or advanced STEM industries.
  • Foundational knowledge in at least one of the program's research focus areas (e.g., Al, robotics, cybersecurity, smart manufacturing, cyber-physical systems).
  • Prior research experience (undergraduate research, MS thesis, or industry projects).
  • Familiarity with tools and techniques in Al, robotics, computer vision, automation, or advanced manufacturing.
  • Experience working with diverse student populations or commitment to broadening participation in STEM.
  • Publications, conference presentations, or technical reports showcasing prior research work.

CSU along with Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises strongly recommend faculty, staff, and students who are accessing campus facilities to be immunized against COVID-19 or declare an exemption from doing so. The systemwide policy can be found at COVID-19 Vaccination Interim Policy and any questions may be sent to fdnhr@cpp.edu
Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises, Inc. may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodation with the employer.