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Physics Research Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$18/hr

... Title Student Research Assistant Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All ... Broad areas that this research explores include electromagnetic physics, materials science, and ...

Diamond Foundry

Director, Laser Technology

Bodega Bay, CA · On-site

$195K - $270K/yr

... physics R&D and beam delivery modeling to scaling laser-material processing loops on the ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Orbotech

Optics Research Scientist

Milpitas, CA

$136K - $231K/yr

This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about optics/physics/math, eager to learn, and ... Support modeling and analysis of advanced wafer-inspection optical systems * Assist in the design ...

KLA Corporation

Optics Research Scientist

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about optics/physics/math, eager to learn, and ... Support modeling and analysis of advanced wafer-inspection optical systems * Assist in the design ...

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Physics Research Assistant information

What is a physics research assistant?

A Physics Research Assistant supports scientific investigations by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and reviewing literature under the guidance of senior researchers. They help set up laboratory equipment, run simulations, and assist in writing research papers. Their work contributes to advancing knowledge in various physics fields, such as condensed matter, quantum mechanics, or astrophysics. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in programming or lab techniques are often required.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a physics research assistant?

As a Physics Research Assistant, your daily tasks often include setting up and running experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. You may also assist with literature reviews, preparing reports, and contributing to academic publications or presentations. The role frequently involves collaborating with professors, graduate students, and other researchers, making teamwork and organization important. This dynamic environment offers valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn advanced scientific techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the physics research assistant position?

To thrive as a Physics Research Assistant, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and scientific research methods, often supported by a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools (such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW), laboratory equipment, and scientific publication software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential for conducting precise experiments, analyzing complex data, and successfully contributing to research projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Research jobs in California?

The most popular types of Physics Research jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Physics Research Assistant jobs in California?

For Physics Research Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physics Research Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Research Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Physics Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Physics Research Assistant job openings:

Physics Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Research Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Student Research Assistant

Chapman University

Orange, CA

$18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 629 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/40714 Job Number SE226724
Position Information
Department or Unit Name Fowler School of Engineering Position Headcount 1 Position Title Student Research Assistant Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Undergrad Anticipated Pay Range $18.00 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done? Orange Approved Supervisor Mark Harrison Supervisor Email mharrison@chapman.edu
Scheduling

Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)

Desired Start Date 08/24/2026 Projected End Date 05/31/2027 Average number of hours per week Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The overall goal of the research project is to develop a fiber-optic stress sensor into a more compact, more useful device. This will be accomplished by miniaturizing elements of the device by designing a photonic integrated circuit and accompanying circuit board. Later, the device will be developed for parallel measurements, which will entail redesigning a test fixture. Throughout these developments, the device will be used to measure compressive stress-strain curves for visco-elastic materials.

This project will allow students to learn about optics and photonics while applying circuit design and some mechanical engineering to a novel system. Broad areas that this research explores include electromagnetic physics, materials science, and electrical engineering. This device will hopefully be used for medical applications and testing diseased tissue for better diagnosis and prognosis.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities Include:
  • Setting up and operating a fiber-optic stress sensor, which includes working with optical fiber and lasers.
  • Integrating photonic integrated circuit components into the overall design of the stress sensor.
  • Writing and maintaining software for controlling components of the stress sensor, collecting data, and displaying the results.
  • Analyzing experimental data and iterating on experiments based on the results.
  • Design and manufacture testing fixtures that enable reliable compression of samples.
  • Weekly 1-on-1 meetings with Dr. Harrison to discuss the state of your project and next steps.
  • Participating in weekly lab group meetings to discuss relevant scientific topics, including occasional presentations.
Required Qualifications
  • Current Chapman undergraduate student.
  • Able and willing to commit 10-19 hours per week during the summer (hours are flexible).
  • Able to manage tasks and work independently.
  • Organized, responsible, and able to keep deadlines.
  • Curious and willing to learn more about the field of optics and photonics.
  • Interested in learning more about the process of scientific research.
Desired Qualifications
  • Student in Engineering or Physics discipline
  • Able to commit to at least 1 year of working in the lab
  • Student who is interested in applying to graduate school of engineering or physics.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required? With or Without FWS

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