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Physics Professor Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

NCSU

Assistant Professor

Raleigh, NC

$50/hr

... Professor Anticipated Hiring Range $95,000 - $102,000 Work Schedule 40 hours a week, days will vary ... The department enrolls approximately 120 graduate students and 140 undergrad physics majors. The ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Open Rank

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

The position is open to candidates at a level from Assistant Professor up to Associate Professor with tenure. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in physics or equivalent, and have an excellent record of ...

NCSU

Assistant Research Professor

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... Research Professor Anticipated Hiring Range $70,000 Work Schedule M-F 8 to 5 varies Job Location ... physics; core areas of applied mathematics, including matrix analysis, numerical analysis ...

Duke University

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Durham, NC

... Engineering, Data science, Physics, Mathematics, Bioinformatics etc; Candidates with ... Yi Zhang is an Assistant Professor at Duke University and computational biologist. Dr. Zhang ...

Duke University

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Durham, NC · On-site

... Engineering, Data science, Physics, Mathematics, Bioinformatics etc; Candidates with ... Yi Zhang is an Assistant Professor at Duke University and computational biologist. Dr. Zhang ...

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Physics Professor information

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$69K

$106.8K

$121.5K

How much do physics professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics professor in Raleigh, NC is $106,826.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,200.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid job in physics?

The highest paid jobs in physics are often in industry roles such as research scientists, physicists in aerospace or defense companies, and senior technical consultants, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and experience in areas like applied physics, engineering, or data analysis.

What is the difference between Physics Professor vs Physics Lecturer?

AspectPhysics ProfessorPhysics Lecturer
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D.) in Physics or related fieldMaster's or Doctorate, depending on institution
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research institutions, academiaUniversities, colleges, sometimes high schools
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily higher education institutionsHigher education, sometimes vocational or community colleges
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for academic roles and career pathsCompared for teaching positions at various educational levels

The main difference between a Physics Professor and a Physics Lecturer lies in their academic credentials, responsibilities, and career paths. Physics Professors typically hold a Ph.D., engage in research, and have tenure, while Physics Lecturers may have a master's or doctorate and focus primarily on teaching. Both roles are vital in academia but differ in scope and expectations.

Is there a demand for physics professors?

Physics professors are in steady demand at universities and research institutions, especially those with expertise in specialized fields like quantum mechanics or astrophysics. Employment opportunities depend on factors such as academic qualifications, research experience, and the availability of funding for higher education. The job market can vary regionally and is influenced by higher education enrollment trends and government research budgets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Physics Professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics Professor, you need deep subject expertise in physics, a relevant doctoral degree, and experience in academic research and teaching. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and learning management systems is typically required. Strong communication, mentorship, and critical thinking skills set outstanding professors apart in engaging and inspiring students. These combined abilities ensure effective teaching, meaningful research contributions, and the development of future scientists.

What can you do with a PhD in physics?

A physics professor with a PhD can work in academia as a faculty member, conducting research and teaching students. They can also find roles in research institutions, government labs, or industry positions such as data analyst, technical consultant, or science communicator, often requiring strong analytical and technical skills. Postdoctoral experience and publishing research are common steps to advance in these careers.

What Does a Physics Professor Do?

A physics professor offers instruction in physical science at a community college, four-year college, or university. As a professor, you can teach both undergraduate and graduate-level courses, depending on your qualifications. An associate professor (adjunct professor) works on a contract basis, while a faculty member with tenure has a career position at the university. Your duties in all physics teaching jobs include planning a syllabus for each class. You lecture, use exams to assess students’ knowledge, and oversee hands-on courses in a lab. At a university, your responsibilities include performing research and writing academic articles.

What does a Physics Professor do?

A Physics Professor is an academic professional who teaches physics courses at a college or university level. They design and deliver lectures, guide laboratory sessions, and assess students' understanding of various physics concepts. In addition to teaching, Physics Professors often conduct original research in their field, publish scholarly articles, and mentor students in their academic and research pursuits. They may also serve on academic committees and contribute to curriculum development within their department.

How much does a physics professor get paid?

Physics professors' salaries vary based on experience, education, and institution type, but typically range from $60,000 to over $150,000 annually. Salaries tend to be higher at research universities and for those with tenure, advanced research skills, and published work.

What are some common challenges Physics Professors face when balancing teaching and research responsibilities?

Physics Professors often juggle multiple priorities, including preparing lectures, grading, mentoring students, conducting research, and publishing findings. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging, especially during peak periods like exam seasons or grant deadlines. Effective time management and clear communication with colleagues and students are essential to maintain productivity and job satisfaction. Many institutions provide support such as teaching assistants or research staff to help manage workloads, but developing a strategic approach to scheduling and prioritizing is key.
More about Physics Professor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Physics Professor jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Physics Professor jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Professor jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Professor jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Physics Professor jobs near you
Teaching Assistant Professor

Teaching Assistant Professor

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 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

263rd of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Department Physics and Astronomy - 319000 Posting Open Date 04/21/2026 Application Deadline 08/17/2026 Open Until Filled No Position Type Permanent Faculty Working Title Teaching Assistant Professor Appointment Type Faculty Vacancy ID FAC0005885 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Permanent Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range Proposed Start Date 01/01/2027
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. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
Our primary mission is to provide instruction of the highest quality in physics and astronomy to undergraduate and graduate students and 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 mater the power of quantitative reasoning; undergraduate seeking a degree in another of the natural sciences, who need physics as a foundation for their advanced scientific training; the small number of undergraduate s 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.
The 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 to maintaining course and student records. These activities are usually accomplished in a standard 40-hour week schedule.
Position Summary
The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill invites applications for a faculty teaching position. The opening is for a candidate at the Teaching Assistant Professor level beginning spring semester 2027. The position is for an initial term of three (3) years and is renewable upon review. We seek a dynamic person to teach undergraduate physics, primarily at the introductory level in a large-enrollment setting. The successful candidate will also be expected to participate in the administrative tasks involved with large-enrollment courses comprising a team of educators. Required qualifications include a PhD in Physics or a closely related field, and experience in teaching at the college level.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Required qualifications include a PhD in Physics or Astronomy or a closely related field, and experience in teaching at the college level.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Prior experience in designing and revising course curricula
  • Prior experience in effectively collaborating with a team
  • Proven ability to engage students in the learning process
Special Physical/Mental Requirements Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions
Interested candidates should provide the following documents:
1. Cover letter
2. Curriculum Vitae (including courses taught)
3. Teaching and Mentoring statement, including examples how to incorporate modernpedagogy into a specific physics course
4. Three letters of recommendation from recent mentors, supervisors, and/or collaborator
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/315624
Department Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Fabian Heitsch, Department Chair Department Contact Telephone or Email fheitsch@email.unc.edu Academic Personnel Office Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost office at (919)-962-1091 or send an email to facultyrecruitment@unc.edu.
Please note: The Executive Vice Chancellor & Provost office will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status. 
If you have any questions about the job requirements or the hiring department notify the Department Contact.
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.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789

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