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Physics Postdoc Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Duke University

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Durham, NC

The postdoc candidate will join a highly collaborative team to develop ML/AI x genomics methodology ... Engineering, Data science, Physics, Mathematics, Bioinformatics etc; Candidates with ...

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$5

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How much do physics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics postdoc in Raleigh, NC is $19.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Physics Postdoc jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Physics Postdoc jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Postdoc jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Postdoc jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Physics Postdoc jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Postdoc job openings in Raleigh, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 12% Physical, 12% Hybrid, and 76% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,566 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Research Associate

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Vision, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

261st of 528 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Department Mathematics - 318900 Posting Open Date 11/14/2025 Application Deadline Open Until Filled Yes Position Type Postdoctoral Scholar Position Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Vacancy ID PDS004714 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work Location Chapel Hill, NC Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range Dependent on experience and/or qualifications Proposed Start Date 07/01/2026 Estimated Duration of Appointment 12 Months
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.
Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The mission of the Department of Mathematics is to extend the frontiers of mathematical knowledge and the ways it is used in the real world, to disseminate that knowledge and to train the next generation of teachers and researchers, as well as those choosing careers with industry or government. The Department is committed to building and nourishing interactions with other units across the UNC campus and with academic and industrial partners in North Carolina's Research Triangle region, throughout the State and across the Nation. The Department maintains a strong research program as well as a comprehensive educational program. An active, healthy research environment is essential for training graduate students and enlivens undergraduate teaching by bringing students into contact with new and relevant mathematics, fostering fundamental mathematical skills and appreciation, and encouraging students to become the next generation of researchers and educators.
Position Summary
The Department of Mathematics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the Algebra-Geometry-Topology group, with a focus on Geometric Representation Theory and related areas at the interface of Algebraic Geometry, Representation Theory, and the mathematical aspects of String Theory. We seek a collaborative and motivated postdoctoral researcher with a strong background and active interest in areas such as: Categorical braid group actions, Categorification of Lie algebras via algebraic geometry, Link homology from an algebro-geometric perspective, Coherent sheaves on Nakajima quiver varieties and affine Grassmannians, Quasi-map moduli spaces and their applications in representation theory, Interactions between the above topics and string-theoretic frameworks. This one-year appointment has the possibility of renewal for an additional year.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
A Ph.D. in Mathematics or Theoretical Physics (with research relevant to string theory or quantum field theory)
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
A Ph.D. in Mathematics or Theoretical Physics (with research relevant to string theory or quantum field theory)
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Have expertise in or a strong foundation in coherent sheaves, quiver varieties, affine Grassmannians and quasi-map moduli spaces. Have interest in the mathematical structures arising in string theory and supersymmetric quantum field theory. Show evidence of creativity and independence.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements Special Instructions
For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here
Applicants must apply online at https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/309243
In addition to the information requested by the UNC website, applicants should post the following at www.mathjobs.org:
(1) The AMS Standard Cover Sheet (online form)
(2) A curriculum vitae
(3) A research statement outlining your interests and relevant work
(4) Three letters of recommendation
Note that candidates must apply at both the UNC website and MathJobs in order to be considered for the position. The UNC website will request a list of references. Letters of recommendation only need to be uploaded to MathJobs. Applications received by January 15, 2026 will get complete consideration. After that, applications will be reviewed on a continuing basis until the position is filled. For inquiries, please contact Prof. Lev Rozansky at: rozansky@unc.edu (Include "Postdoctoral Position" in the subject line).

Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/309243
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Lev Rozansky, Professor Department Contact Telephone or Email rozansky@unc.edu Postdoctoral Affairs Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.
Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

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Year founded

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