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Physics Postdoc Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Duke University

Postdoctoral Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

Postdoctoral Associate, Diagnostic Imaging & Machine Learning Be You. At Duke, we celebrate ... D. in Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Medical Physics, Imaging ...

Duke University

Postdoctoral Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

Postdoctoral Associate, Diagnostic Imaging & Machine Learning Be You. At Duke, we celebrate ... D. in Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Medical Physics, Imaging ...

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All JobsPhysics Postdoc JobsPhysics Postdoc Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Physics Postdoc information

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$5

$19

$24

How much do physics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,566 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Post-Doc Research Associate

Chapel Hill, NC

UNC-Chapel Hill
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about UNC-Chapel Hillexternal

Full-time

Medical, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Department Physics and Astronomy - 319000 Posting Open Date 11/24/2025 Application Deadline Open Until Filled Yes Position Type Postdoctoral Scholar Position Title Post-Doc Research Associate Vacancy ID PDS004724 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 Proposed Start Date 01/01/2026 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
Our primary mission is providing instruction of the highest quality in physics and astronomy to undergraduate and graduate students at UNC-CH. Training in physics is fundamental among the natural sciences because it provides understanding of the forces governing the structure of matter, from subatomic particles to the large-scale structure of the universe.
Our departmental instructional mission spans all segments of the student community. Over 60% of all college graduates from UNC-CH have taken a course in our department. Among them: undergraduate liberal arts majors who should master the power of quantitative reasoning; undergraduates seeking a degree in another of the natural sciences, who need physics as a foundation for their advanced scientific training; the small number of undergraduates who major in physics, to whom we provide broad and rigorous training. Our graduate education and research advances frontiers of knowledge at the two extremes of space and time, from the very small) the realm of particle physics) to the very large (the realm of astronomy, while expanding the boundaries of knowledge in the many subfields spanning length scales between. Forefront physics and astronomy research requires access to well-equipped laboratories and extensive computing capabilities; it also must be supported by comprehensive and accessible library collections. Again, in research at this advanced level, the bridging aspect of physics provides basic interdisciplinary insight for many other sciences.
This instructional mission is supported by a strong managerial, administrative, and technical staff. Duties of these employees range from budget planning and management for the numerous research grants held by faculty in the department to maintaining course and student records. These activities are usually accomplished in a standard 40- hour week schedule.
Position Summary
The computational materials research group led by Dr. Mengen Wang is seeking a postdoc researcher to work on computational materials. The postdoc researcher will perform DFT calculations and develop methods to accelerate the design of defects in semiconductors. This position offers exciting opportunities to collaborate with experiment and theory groups. Candidates should be able to work both independently and collaboratively and contribute to a positive research group environment. The candidate is required to have experience with DFT calculations and a strong publication record. Experience with quantum defects and/or machine learning methods like machine learning interatomic potentials is a preferred qualification.
This preferred start date is January 2026 and can be negotiated. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years based on performance.
A complete application includes (1) a cover letter summarizing the applicant's qualifications, research interests, and suitability for the position, (2) a complete CV, (3) a list of at least three references, and (4) unofficial BS and PhD transcripts. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related area
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Strong background in solid-state physics and publication records in computational materials
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Experience in the development and implementation of machine learning models
Special Physical/Mental Requirements Special Instructions
For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/309911
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Mengen Wang, Assistant Professor Department Contact Telephone or Email mewang@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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Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

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1789

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