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Physics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$46K - $63K/yr

JR100589 Postdoctoral Fellow of Physics (AMO Theory) (Open) Job Posting Title: Postdoctoral Fellow of Physics (AMO Theory) Job Family: Faculty - Postdoctoral Research Associate (12 months) Number of ...

JR101257 Postdoctoral Research Associate of Physics (Theoretical Quantum Matter) (Open) Job Posting Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate of Physics (Theoretical Quantum Matter) Department: CC00105 ...

Postdoc Fellow - Imaging Physics

Houston, TX · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

A postdoctoral fellowship position is available in the Department of Imaging Physics in the laboratory of Chengyue Wu, PhD. Dr. Chengyue Wu's research interests focus on computational precision ...

A postdoctoral fellowship position is available in the Department of Imaging Physics in the laboratory of Chengyue Wu, PhD. Dr. Chengyue Wu's research interests focus on computational precision ...

A postdoctoral fellowship position is available in the Department of Imaging Physics in the laboratory of Chengyue Wu, PhD. Dr. Chengyue Wu's research interests focus on computational precision ...

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Physics Postdoc information

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How much do physics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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 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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Physics Postdoc job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellow of Physics (AMO Theory)

Williammary

On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 hours ago


Job description

Job Requisition:

JR100589 Postdoctoral Fellow of Physics (AMO Theory) (Open)

Job Posting Title:

Postdoctoral Fellow of Physics (AMO Theory)

Job Family:

Faculty - Postdoctoral Research Associate (12 months)

Number of Openings:

1

Worker Sub-Type:

Fixed Term (requires end date - benefited) (Fixed Term)

Job Requisition Primary Location:

William & Mary

Primary Job Posting Location:

William & Mary

Job Description Summary:

The Department of Physics at William & Mary, a public university of the Commonwealth of Virginia, invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate position that will begin September 25, 2025. We seek an individual with expertise in many-body physics, quantum optics, open quantum systems, and/or quantum information to work on theoretical problems in quantum information for cold atoms.

Job Description:

The Department of Physics at William & Mary, a public university of the Commonwealth of Virginia, invites applications for a postdoctoral fellow position, expected to begin 25 September 2025. The Ilo-Okeke Theory Group seeks an individual with expertise in many-body physics, quantum optics, open quantum systems, and/or quantum information to work on theoretical problems in quantum information for cold atoms. Topics of interest include many-body physics and collective light-matter interactions in neutral atom ensembles. The position aims to advance fundamental understandings and practical applications of neutral atoms in quantum information science, sensing, networks and metrology. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

Application Instructions:
For full consideration, please upload your resume, cover letter, and research statement.

Additional Job Description:

Qualifications:

PhD - Physics

Period Salary Plan:

Compensation Grade:

S99

Recruiting Start Date:

2025-07-29

Review Date:

2025-09-08

Position Restrictions:

EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal