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Phd Science Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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Phd Science information

See Kentucky salary details

$21.3K

$42K

$68.6K

How much do phd science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd science in Kentucky is $42,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,400.00 and $45,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD scientist?

To thrive as a PhD Scientist, you need advanced expertise in your scientific discipline, strong research skills, and a doctoral degree (PhD) in a relevant field. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as R or Python), and publication processes is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for presenting complex findings and collaborating with peers. These skills and qualifications are crucial for driving innovative research, producing publishable results, and contributing to scientific advancement.

What is a PhD in science?

A PhD in Science is the highest academic degree awarded in scientific fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, or environmental science. It typically involves several years of advanced coursework, followed by original research that contributes new knowledge to the field. Graduates must defend a dissertation before a panel of experts. Earning a PhD in Science prepares individuals for careers in academia, research, industry, and leadership roles within scientific organizations.

What is the difference between Phd Science vs Data Scientist?

AspectPhd ScienceData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in a scientific field, research experienceBachelor's or Master's in CS, stats, or related field; often a PhD preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, industry R&DTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting
Industry UsageResearch roles, scientific analysis, product developmentData analysis, machine learning, predictive modeling

While both roles involve analytical skills and data handling, Phd Science focuses on scientific research and experimentation, often in academic or R&D settings. Data Scientists primarily analyze large datasets to inform business decisions and develop models in industry environments. The key difference lies in their application areas and typical work environments.

What are the typical career advancement paths for someone with a PhD in science in academia and industry?

Individuals with a PhD in Science often start in postdoctoral or entry-level research positions, where they build specialized expertise and publish their findings. In academia, advancement typically involves progressing to assistant, associate, and full professor roles, with additional opportunities to lead research groups or departments. In industry, PhD holders can move into senior scientist, project manager, or R&D director roles, with the potential to transition into leadership, policy, or consulting positions. Building a strong professional network, publishing impactful research, and developing leadership skills are key to advancing in both sectors.
What are popular job titles related to Phd Science jobs in Kentucky? For Phd Science jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Phd Science jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Phd Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Phd Science job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,029 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Research & Development - PhD Engineering Intern

PPL

Lexington, KY • On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


PPL rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Company Summary Statement

As one of the largest investor-owned utility companies in the United States, PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL), is committed to creating long-term, sustainable value for our 3.5 million customers, our shareowners and the communities we serve. Our high-performing regulated utilities — PPL Electric Utilities, Louisville Gas and Electric, Kentucky Utilities and Rhode Island Energy — provide an outstanding experience for our customers, consistently ranking among the best utilities in the nation. PPL’s companies are also addressing challenges head-on by investing in new infrastructure and technology that is creating a smarter, more reliable and resilient energy grid. We are committed to doing our part to advance a cleaner energy future and drive innovation that enables us to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 while maintaining energy reliability and affordability for the customers and communities we serve. PPL is a positive force in the cities and towns where we do business, providing support for programs and organizations that empower the success of future generations by helping to build and maintain strong, diverse communities today.

Overview

The PPL R&D Department is looking for PhD Engineering students from all engineering disciplines to begin in May 2026. We are looking for interns who are passionate about renewable energy, including wind and solar, energy storage, green hydrogen, sustainability, carbon capture and other decarbonization technologies.

Ideal candidates will be based in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, or Kentucky and would be interested in the potential of transitioning to full-time employment with PPL upon graduation. During the school year, students will work part time, but during the summer, the position will work on-site and may include travel to work on clean energy R&D projects at numerous locations across PPL Corporation including Allentown, Pennsylvania, Providence, Rhode Island, as well as Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky. While traveling, all expenses will be paid.

Responsibilities

  • Plans and controls all activities so as to provide an accident-free work place.

  • Uses engineering and scientific principles to plan projects, collect and analyze data, and create professional reports.

  • Gathers, correlates, and analyzes data using established procedures.

  • Coordinates and communicates results and participation in research projects within applicable business units and prepares summaries of value and results to management.

  • Identifies opportunities for improvement and/or suggests improved methods.

  • Performs detailed and/or engineering assignments involving established calculations, tests and analysis.

  • Performs other duties as directed by management.

Qualifications

Requirements

  • Available part time during the semester and full time during the Summer 2026 semester

  • Pursuing a PhD in Engineering from an ABET Accredited program.

  • Minimum 3.00 GPA

Requirements

  • Available part time during the semester and full time during the Summer 2026 semester

  • Pursuing a PhD in Engineering from an ABET Accredited program.

  • Minimum 3.00 GPA

  • Plans and controls all activities so as to provide an accident-free work place.

  • Uses engineering and scientific principles to plan projects, collect and analyze data, and create professional reports.

  • Gathers, correlates, and analyzes data using established procedures.

  • Coordinates and communicates results and participation in research projects within applicable business units and prepares summaries of value and results to management.

  • Identifies opportunities for improvement and/or suggests improved methods.

  • Performs detailed and/or engineering assignments involving established calculations, tests and analysis.

  • Performs other duties as directed by management.

Remote Work

The company reserves the right to determine if this position will be assigned to work on-site, remotely, or a combination of both. Assigned work location may change. In the case of remote work, physical presence in the office/on-site may be required to engage in face-to-face interaction and coordination of work among direct reports and co-workers.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Our company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identify, genetic information, disability status, or any other protected characteristic.


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