ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Physics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsPhysics Postdoc Jobs

Physics Postdoc information

See salary details

$5

$20

$25

How much do physics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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 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.

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 job categories do people searching Physics Postdoc jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Postdoc jobs are:
Physics Postdoc jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Postdoc job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 10% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 80% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Physics

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Physics

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

University Of Texas At Arlington rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

281st of 529 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Information
Posting Number F00747P Position Title Postdoctoral Research Associate - Physics Department Physics Location Arlington Job Family Faculty Position Status Full-time Rank Post-Doc Work Hours Standard Open to External and Internal FLSA Exempt Duration Funding expected to continue Pay Basis Monthly Benefits Eligible Yes Job Summary
The Department of Physics in the College of Science at the University of Texas at Arlington invites applications for a postdoctoral position. The successful candidate will investigate key processes related to magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, energetic particle dynamics, and the structure and dynamics of magnetic fields and plasma in Earth's magnetotail under solar wind driving. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with observations from major NASA missions, including THEMIS, MMS, and TRACERS, as well as low-altitude CubeSat missions such as ELFIN, CIRBE, and REAL. The position involves analyzing multi-instrument datasets to study plasma processes and particle acceleration in geospace. Research activities will integrate observational data analysis, theoretical modeling, and numerical simulations to advance our understanding of magnetospheric dynamics. The successful candidate will be expected to publish results in peer-reviewed journals, present findings at international conferences, and contribute to collaborative research projects.

This position is expected to start June 2026.

In accordance with USCIS regulations, successful applicants must be legally able to accept work in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
Benefits at UTA
We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to all our employees at the University.
To help you understand the full value of these benefits, we have created a tool that calculates the total worth of your compensation package. This tool takes into account all of the benefits that you are eligible for, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. To access this tool and learn more about the total value of your benefits, please click on the following link:
https://resources.uta.edu/hr/services/records/compensation-tools.php
CBC Requirement
It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington to conduct a criminal background check on any applicant who is under final consideration for employment with the University.

This position may have access to critical infrastructure as defined by Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code. If so, to be hired for and continue to be employed in this position you must maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure as set forth in Texas Executive Order GA-48. By assuming this position, and if you have access to critical infrastructure, you authorize the University to conduct routine background checks.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct high-quality, independent research in the field of space plasma physics. The successful candidate will investigate key processes related to magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, energetic particle dynamics, and the structure and dynamics of magnetic fields and plasma in Earth's magnetotail under solar wind driving. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with observations from major NASA missions, including THEMIS, MMS, and TRACERS, as well as low-altitude CubeSat missions such as ELFIN, CIRBE, and REAL. The position involves analyzing multi-instrument datasets to study plasma processes and particle acceleration in geospace. Research activities will integrate observational data analysis, theoretical modeling, and numerical simulations to advance our understanding of magnetospheric dynamics. The successful candidate will be expected to publish results in peer-reviewed journals, present findings at international conferences, and contribute to collaborative research projects.
Required Qualifications
  • Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics or a closely related field, completed within the past 3-5 years.
  • Candidates should demonstrate a strong research background, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, and possess relevant technical expertise in experimental, computational, or theoretical methods.
  • Experience with spacecraft data analysis and preparation in theoretical plasma physics is desirable.
  •  A background in spacecraft instrument design and modeling is also desirable but not required.

Preferred Qualifications Special Conditions for Eligibility Department Information
The Department of Physics at The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is an R1 research institution, offering postdocs opportunities in astrophysics, condensed matter, high-energy/nuclear physics, and medical biophysics. Postdocs work with esteemed faculty on projects funded by NASA, NSF, and DOE, with typical duties including research, mentoring, and publishing. The College of Science offers world-class educational and research opportunities with small class sizes and outstanding faculty mentorship.
University Information
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metroplex, a vibrant and diverse metropolitan area that is home to over 7 million people, one of the fastest-growing tech economies in the United States, and a wide array of arts, entertainment, and cultural activities. As a comprehensive teaching, research, and public service institution, UTA is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through scholarship and creative work. With an enrollment of more than 42,000 students, UTA is the second largest in the University of Texas System. As a result of its combination of rigorous academics and innovative research, UTA is designated as a Carnegie R-1 "Very High Research Activity" institution and nationally recognized for its commitment to student success and service. It ranks No. 5 in Military Times' "Best for Vets: Colleges" and is the top university in North Texas for its graduates' salaries (The Wall Street Journal). UTA is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution and is No. 6 for undergraduate ethnic diversity in the United States (U.S. News & World Report, 2023). With a global alumni network of approximately 280,000 - including leaders at many of the 24 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in North Texas - UTA contributes an estimated $29 billion annually to the Texas economy.
UTA is expanding its regional footprint by building a regional campus, called UTA West, in Parker County on the far west side of Fort Worth. It is scheduled to open in fall 2028. This initiative aligns with the university's strategic growth and commitment to serving the broader community. Furthermore, UTA has launched the RISE 100 initiative, aiming to recruit 100 new tenure-system faculty to strengthen its research enterprise and leadership in key academic areas. Learn more at https://www.uta.edu/administration/president/strategic-plan/rise100.
This is an exciting time to join UTA and contribute to its bold vision for the future.
Working Title EEO Statement
It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA or The University) to provide an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. In accordance with federal and state law, the University prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, and/or veteran status. The University also prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender identity, and gender expression. Retaliation against persons who oppose a discriminatory practice, file a charge of discrimination, or testify for, assist in, or participate in an investigative proceeding relating to discrimination is prohibited. Constitutionally-protected expression will not be considered discrimination or harassment under this policy. It is the responsibility of all departments, employees, and students to ensure the University's compliance with this policy.
ADA Accommodations
The University of Texas at Arlington is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to 817-272-5554 or email ADADocs@uta.edu.
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies 2 Desired Start Date 06/01/2026 Open Date 04/13/2026 Review Start Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
To apply, applicants should go to https://apply.interfolio.com/184479 and submit the following materials:
Required Documents
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Cover Letter
  • Contact References (provide one document with three contacts who may serve as recommenders).

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for the best consideration.

Questions may be addressed to Dr. Anton Artemyev at anton.artemyev@uta.edu. For more information about UTA, please visit: http://www.uta.edu/uta.

What University Of Texas At Arlington employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply