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Physics Phd Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

S. or PhD in Medical Physics, or closely related field, required. Minimum of 2 years post-graduate physics experience in a program of similar size with computerized treatment planning and comparable ...

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Physics Phd information

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$12.5K

$69.3K

$107K

How much do physics phd jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics phd in Washington is $69,269.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,100.00 and $73,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physics PhD?

A Physics PhD job typically involves advanced research, problem-solving, and analytical work in academia, industry, or government. Common roles include research scientist, data analyst, professor, and engineer in fields like aerospace, biotech, finance, and energy. These jobs require expertise in mathematical modeling, programming, and experimental techniques. Many Physics PhDs work on cutting-edge technologies, simulations, and theoretical advancements that drive innovation in science and engineering.

What types of projects or research areas can physics PhDs expect to work on?

Physics PhDs often work on a broad range of projects, such as experimental and theoretical research in condensed matter, quantum mechanics, astrophysics, or materials science, depending on the employer and area of specialization. You may be involved in designing and conducting experiments, developing simulations, publishing findings, and collaborating with other scientists or engineers. Many positions offer opportunities to lead interdisciplinary teams or participate in cutting-edge technology development. The day-to-day work is often dynamic, with tasks varying between data analysis, grant preparation, presentations, and mentorship. Over time, there are strong opportunities for career advancement to roles such as principal investigator, research director, or technical lead in academia, government, or industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the physics PhD position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics PhD, you need advanced expertise in physics concepts, analytical problem-solving abilities, and a doctoral degree in physics or a closely related field. Strong proficiency with data analysis software (such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW), scientific instrumentation, and publication or grant-writing systems is typically required. Excellent communication, perseverance, and the ability to collaborate in interdisciplinary teams set top candidates apart. These skills are essential for driving research, contributing to innovation, and succeeding in both academic and industry settings.

Are physics PhDs employable?

Physics PhDs are highly employable in various fields including academia, research, data analysis, engineering, and technology. They develop skills in problem-solving, quantitative analysis, and technical communication, which are valued across many industries. Job prospects often depend on specialization, experience, and additional skills such as programming or laboratory techniques.

Do physics PhD students get paid?

Physics PhD students often receive stipends or assistantships that provide a salary or financial support during their studies, typically in exchange for research or teaching duties. The amount and source of funding vary by institution and program, but paid positions are common in graduate physics programs. These stipends help cover living expenses while students focus on their research and coursework.

Is a physics PhD worth it?

A physics PhD prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, and industry, often requiring strong analytical and problem-solving skills. While it can lead to high-level positions, the degree involves significant time and financial investment, and job prospects vary depending on specialization and market demand.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Phd jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Physics Phd jobs in Washington are:

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Physics Phd jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Physics Phd job openings:

Infographic showing various Physics Phd job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,269 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Senior Editor, Physics Today

College Park, MD • On-site

American Institute of Physics Incorporated
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Senior Editor, Physics Today


WHO WE ARE:  Scientific discovery shapes our lives every day. And AIP, publisher of Physics Today, empowers the organizations and people that make those discoveries possible.

As a Federation, AIP advances the success of a community of more than 30 independent scientific organizations. They, in turn, support hundreds of thousands of professionals across many scientific and engineering disciplines. AIP creates shared spaces — forums, conversations, connections — where individual action among our Member Organizations becomes collective impact.

As an Institute, AIP preserves the history of discovery so the past can guide the future. We study how research is done, who participates, and what holds people back or propels them to succeed. Our findings inform policy, practice, and decision-making across the physical sciences. We are especially focused on the next generation of physical scientists and committed to ensuring talent from anywhere can thrive in our fields.

Humanity needs science. And science needs people and organizations working together to tackle our planet’s toughest challenges. Together, we can advance science, empower scientists, and ensure discovery continues to shape our lives.

We want you to become a part of our mission and join our dynamic team!


SUMMARY:  ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT PHYSICS? SKILLED AT STORYTELLING? EXPERIENCED IN EDITING? Join Physics Today, the world’s most influential physical-sciences publication, as a Senior Editor. The flagship publication of AIP, Physics Today is a trusted voice for the physical sciences. Through its accessible, engaging content, Physics Today serves as a unifying influence that bridges disciplinary boundaries and cultivates a shared understanding, appreciation, and sense of belonging. Physics Today keeps the community informed, stimulates conversation, and helps shape how the community sees itself.

In this role, you will lead the Physics Today editing team in honing longer-form content, written by subject-matter experts and by staff and freelance writers and spanning the full gamut of fields, to make the pieces relevant and engaging for more than 150,000 monthly website visitors and 100,000 magazine readers. Come leverage your graduate degree in physics (PhD preferred) and 8+ years of science writing and editing experience to create impactful content for Physics Today’s scientifically literate audience and connect with the global physical-sciences community. 


WHAT YOU’LL DO:

  • Lead Physics Today’s team of editors in the substantive and line editing of longer-form content to produce clear, polished, and engaging final products that resonate with the audience.
  • Provide editorial oversight for editors and writers, especially for stories that delve deeply into the science of a field.
  • Help develop, implement, and hone Physics Today’s multiplatform editorial strategy.
  • Identify and evaluate story ideas about noteworthy and interesting developments and evergreen topics across the gamut of physical-science fields.
  • Work with the Visual Experience team and others to develop and incorporate a broad palette of visuals and other media that enhance the reader experience, taking full, creative advantage of digital storytelling opportunities. 
  • Author content, as needed, with exceptional narrative flair and technical proficiency.
  • Mentor junior staff on writing and editing.
  • Foster a creative environment where new ideas are encouraged, tested, and refined. 
  • Develop a deep understanding of the Physics Today audience and its evolving information needs in order to continuously improve content relevance, engagement, and impact.
  • Attend scientific meetings and maintain broad contact with members of the physical-sciences community. 
  • Contribute to and advance the overall editorial effort of Physics Today


WHAT YOU’LL BRING: 

  • A passion for science and science communication.
  • Graduate degree, PhD preferred, in physics or a closely related field, or equivalent extensive knowledge of the physical-sciences research community.
  • At least 8 years of professional science writing and editing experience, preferably at a scientific publication.
  • Mentoring/supervision skills
  • Strong critical-thinking skills and ability to solve substantive editing problems.
  • Exceptional talent for storytelling and for explaining complex physics-related topics to a broad audience of scientists.
  • Masterful editorial judgment, creative prowess, and meticulous attention to detail.
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and mentoring skills.
  • Ability to learn new things quickly and independently.
  • Ability to multitask, handle multiple assignments and priorities on varying timescales, and meet deadlines.


TO APPLY: Include a resume and a cover letter.  We encourage you to apply even if your experience does not fully match the position description. At AIP, we embrace considering people from a diversity of backgrounds and career experiences. 

COMPENSATION: $101,981.00 – $112,179.00


WORKING AT AIP: AIP embraces a flexible hybrid work environment to balance in-person collaborative work with remote work. The team works in a flexible, hybrid schedule and reports to our offices in College Park, Maryland, and Washington, DC, as needed. Employees are required to reside in the DC Metro regions of Maryland, Virginia, or Washington, DC.

We offer comprehensive benefits, including generous paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, an annual retirement contribution of 10% of base pay, tuition assistance, commuter benefits, and more. 

Your colleagues at AIP are welcoming, gracious, and eager to help each other succeed. With our commitment to ongoing learning and development, institute-wide social opportunities, and community service, AIP is a rewarding place to work.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.


Join our team of energized, charismatic, collaborative, and passionate individuals, and contribute to making a difference in the field of physical sciences!