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Physics Postdoc Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Tufts University

Postdoctoral Scholar

Medford, MA · On-site

$67K/yr

Overview Postdoctoral Scholar in Machine Learning for Physical Systems The Department of Electrical ... physics, applied mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field; a strong record of ...

Tufts University

Postdoctoral Scholar

Medford, MA · On-site

$67K/yr

Overview Postdoctoral Scholar in Machine Learning for Physical Systems The Department of Electrical ... physics, applied mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field; a strong record of ...

NorthEastern

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Boston, MA · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

The postdoc will join an interdisciplinary program that combines quantum sensing instrumentation, surface and interfacial chemistry, and the physics of the target systems, with current directions ...

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All JobsPhysics Postdoc JobsPhysics Postdoc Jobs in Boston, MA

Physics Postdoc information

See Boston, MA salary details

$5

$21

$27

How much do physics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics postdoc in Boston, MA is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $27.69 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 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 kind of physics postdoc jobs are in demand?

Physics postdoc jobs in demand typically focus on areas such as condensed matter physics, quantum information, astrophysics, and materials science. These roles often require strong research skills, experience with advanced laboratory equipment or computational tools, and a PhD in physics or a related field. Funding for projects in these areas is generally stable, and positions are available in academia, national laboratories, and industry research centers.

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 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 popular job titles related to Physics Postdoc jobs in Boston, MA? For Physics Postdoc jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Postdoc jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Postdoc jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Physics Postdoc jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Physics Postdoc job openings:
Physics Postdoc jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Postdoc job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,331 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Harvard University, Physics, Postdoctoral Fellow

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$67K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Harvard University rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position
Details
Title
Harvard University, Physics, Postdoctoral Fellow
School
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department/Area
Physics
Position Description
The Lukin group at Harvard University expects to appoint one or more postdoctoral fellows beginning in November/December 2025. We are looking for candidates with interests in the use of atomic cavities and atomic arrays for quantum computing.
Candidates should submit a CV, statement of research interests, and arrange for 2-3 letters of recommendation to be submitted by scientists familiar with their work. Candidates may also wish to include selected preprints or reprints of articles they have written.
Candidates for this position must have completed their Ph.D. degree by the appointment start date; demonstrate outstanding research in physics appropriate to level of the position; and have the ability to identify and pursue research problems independently while working well in an interactive and dynamic setting.
Basic Qualifications
Candidates for this position must have completed their Ph.D. degree by the appointment start date.
Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions
Contact Information
Elaine Mangelinkx
Harvard Physics Department
17 Oxford St
Cambridge MA 02138
Contact Email
elaine_mangelinkx@fas.harvard.edu
Salary Range
$67,600-$80,000
Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field
Minimum Number of References Required
2
Maximum Number of References Allowed
5
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