1

Physics Postdoc Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or related fields. All Scientists must have evidence of research productivity and independence. * 2 years of relevant experience postdoctoral research ...

RESEARCH FELLOW

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$62K - $64K/yr

We seek talented, motivated postdoctoral applicants from all areas of engineering, math, physics, computer science and other relevant areas. The duties and expectations of this position include ...

... full-time postdoctoral scholar, for an in-person, 1-year position, with the possibility of ... PhD in medical physics, nuclear engineering or other engineering or physics disciplines. Applicants ...

Physics Postdoc information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$17

$22

How much do physics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics postdoc in Michigan is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.91 and $22.21 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.

What are popular job titles related to Physics Postdoc jobs in Michigan?

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

What job categories do people searching Physics Postdoc jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Postdoc jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Physics Postdoc job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,372 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar, Physics

Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Michigan Technological University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Postdoctoral Scholar, Physics
Job No: 26141
Department: Physics
Work Type: Staff - Full Time
Location: Off Campus, Main Campus (Houghton, MI)
Full Time / Part Time: Full Time
Categories: Physics
Applications Close:
Michigan Technological University is an R1 technological research university founded in 1885 in Houghton. Our rural campus is situated just miles from Lake Superior in Michigan's scenic Upper Peninsula and is home to nearly 7,500 students from more than 60 countries around the world. Consistently ranked among the best universities in the country for return on investment, Michigan's flagship technological university offers more than 185 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Research focus areas include defense, health, energy, automotive, environment, and aerospace.
The area's waters, forests, and snowfall support year-round recreation, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, and paddling. The University is an integral part of the region, supported by a friendly and welcoming community that takes pride in being a true college town. We embrace our size, climate, sense of adventure, and originality.
Summary
Michigan Technological University is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar for our Physics department. The position is part of a collaboration with Brookhaven National Laboratory, to develop next-generation cloud chamber technology for exploring aerosol-cloud-precipitation interactions. The postdoc will lead and support cloud chamber experiments, operate a range of instrumentation, and work closely with aerosol-generation systems and cloud droplet probes. Responsibilities also include data analysis and dissemination of results through presentations at professional society meetings and publications in peer reviewed journals. Familiarity with lab experiments, optics, AI/ML tools, especially embodied AI, is considered a plus.
Responsibilities and Essential Duties
1. Lead and support chamber experiments and operate a range of instrumentation in support of cloud chamber experiments
2. Conduct experiments
3. Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals
4. Attend and/or present research at national and international conferences and meetings
5. Collaborate with BNL scientists and the MTU cloud chamber group members and visiting scientists
6. Commit to learning about continuous improvement strategies and applying them to everyday work. Actively engage in University continuous improvement initiatives.
7. Apply safety-related knowledge, skills, and practices to everyday work.
Required Education, Certifications, Licensures
• Ph.D. in atmospheric science, physics, engineering or related field.
Required Experience
• Experience in Laboratory studies.
Desirable Education and/or Experience
• Proficiency with operating research-grade laboratory instrumentation
• Hands-on experience in laboratory cloud chamber research
• Experience in instrument development suitable for laboratory research
• Familiarity with AI/ML tools as they relate to experimental control (i.e., embodied AI) and data analysis.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities
• Ability to work in a laboratory
• Ability to troubleshoot, upgrade, and, if necessary, repair, research-grade instruments
• Ability to conduct independent research as well as work in a collaborative research environment
• Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex concepts in a clear and concise manner
• Evidence of published manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals as an author • Evidence of presented research at national and international conferences/meetings
Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities
• Demonstrated success in, or potential future contributions to, working with persons with a wide variety of backgrounds and viewpoints.
Work Environment and/or Physical Demands
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.
Required Training and Other Conditions of Employment
Every employee at Michigan Technological University will receive the following 4 required trainings; additional training may be required by the department.
Required University Training:
• Employee Safety Overview
• Anti-Harassment, Discrimination, Retaliation Training
• Annual Data Security Training
• Annual Title IX Training
Background Check:
Offers of employment are contingent upon and not considered finalized until the required background check has been performed and the results received and assessed.
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) % (1=100%)
1
FLSA Status
Exempt
Appointment Term
12 months
Shift
Pay Rate/Salary
The salary range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000. However, the final salary will depend on experience and qualifications.
Title of Position Supervisor
Professor
Posting Type
Internal & External
Dependent on Funding
Yes
Additional Information
The position is based at Brookhaven National Laboratory.
This position is contingent upon the continued availability of external funding.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
If you require any auxiliary aids, services, or accommodations during Michigan Tech's hiring process please notify the Human Resources office at 906-487-2280 or hr-help@mtu.edu.
Other Conditions of Employment:
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of your appointment, and maintain eligibility without sponsorship throughout your appointment.
Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. Michigan Tech will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the Michigan Tech Public Safety.
In compliance with the federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) and its implementing regulations (34 CFR Part 86), Michigan Tech is committed to maintaining a drugfree campus environment and actively promoting the health and safety of its community. Find our notice that outlines the University's policies, legal sanctions, health risks, and available support resources related to the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol.
Required Education, Certifications, Licensures* (minimum requirements)
Advertised: 31 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications Close:
Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What Michigan Technological University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom