1

Physics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Department of Physics at the University of Nevada, Reno is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral Scholar (one year, renewable for a second year subject to satisfactory performance and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Physics Postdoc information

See salary details

$5

$20

$25

How much do physics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics postdoc in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physics postdoc?

A Physics Postdoc, or postdoctoral researcher in physics, is an individual who has completed their Ph.D. in physics and is engaged in further research, typically at a university or research institute. Postdocs work under the supervision of a principal investigator and contribute to ongoing projects, often publishing their findings in scientific journals. The role is intended to provide advanced training and experience, preparing postdocs for independent research careers, academia, or industry positions. Physics postdoc positions are usually temporary, lasting from one to three years.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics Postdoc, you need a PhD in physics or a related field, strong analytical and research skills, and expertise in your area of study. Familiarity with advanced simulation software, programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and experience with laboratory equipment or data analysis tools are often required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective collaboration and communication skills help you contribute to research teams and share findings. These skills are essential for advancing scientific knowledge, publishing impactful research, and succeeding in highly competitive academic or research environments.

What are some common challenges faced by physics postdocs when transitioning to independent research?

Physics Postdocs often encounter challenges such as securing funding for independent projects, balancing research with teaching or mentoring duties, and building a professional network. Navigating the shift from working under a principal investigator to developing their own research agenda requires strong grant writing and project management skills. Collaborating effectively with interdisciplinary teams and maintaining work-life balance are also important considerations during this stage of career development.

What is the difference between Physics Postdoc vs Physics Research Scientist?

AspectPhysics PostdocPhysics Research Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Physics or related fieldPhD in Physics or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universities, research institutionsResearch labs, industry, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and research institutionsIndustry, government, private sector
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Physics Postdocs are typically early-career researchers working in academic or research settings, focusing on gaining experience and publishing. Physics Research Scientists often hold more permanent roles in industry or government labs, with broader responsibilities and less emphasis on training. While both roles require a PhD in Physics, their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

More about Physics Postdoc jobs

What cities are hiring for Physics Postdoc jobs?

Cities with the most Physics Postdoc job openings:

What states have the most Physics Postdoc jobs?

States with the most job openings for Physics Postdoc jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Physics Postdoc jobs?

For Physics Postdoc jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Physics Postdoc job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Quantum computation and atomic/molecular physics postdoc

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

Los Alamos National Laboratory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 5 - 10K employees

$44K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Job Title Quantum computation and atomic/molecular physics postdoc
Location Los Alamos, NM, US
Organization Name T-4 / Quantum and Condensed Matter Physics
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
What You Will Do
The Group of Quantum and Condensed Matter Physics in the Theoretical Division of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking a strong postdoc candidate to work at the intersection of quantum computation and theoretical atomic physics. The successful candidate will also be part of LANL's Center for Nonlinear Studies and contribute to a project involving collaboration between quantum computer scientists, atomic physicists, and applications experts at LANL. Leveraging techniques from quantum algorithms and knowledge of challenges in atomic physics, the postdoc will be expected to contribute to a research pipeline that spans detailed studies of quantum computing and quantum information all the way to atomic physics applications. Beyond technical contributions, maintaining a broad view of the pipeline is desirable, with the aim of developing and extending cross-disciplinary quantum computation research at LANL.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:

  • Strong background in quantum computation and numerical simulations of atomic and molecular physics
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research
  • Ability and willingness to work with interdisciplinary team
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Education/Experience : Candidates must have a Ph.D. in mathematics, computer science, physics, or chemistry (completed within the last 5 years or soon to be completed). The candidate will have completed all Ph.D. requirements by the commencement of the appointment.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience using information processing arguments to analyze quantum algorithms
  • Background in quantum resource estimation
  • Ability to use Mathematica, Python, or other scientific computing language

Work Environment:
Work Location : The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants:
The review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Questions can be sent to Tyler Volkoff at volkoff@lanl.gov or Yigit Subasi at ysubasi@lanl.gov
Candidates may be considered for a Director's Postdoc Fellowship, and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Darleane Christian Hoffman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines Distinguished Postdoc Fellowships.
For more information about the Postdoc Program, go to
https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes
  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
No Clearance: Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Employment Status
Appointment Type Postdoc
Postdoc

What Los Alamos National Laboratory employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom