ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Physics Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weekday AI

Physics Research Collaborator (Part-time)

$80 - $110/hr

Scientific literature interpretation * Identify reasoning errors and conceptual gaps that experienced physics researchers would readily recognize. * Provide detailed, evidence-based written feedback ...

Realta Fusion Inc

Research Scientist

Madison, WI · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

As a Research Scientist, you'll bridge simulation and experiment to drive groundbreaking progress ... PhD in Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years' experience in theoretical and ...

Realta Fusion Inc.

Research Scientist

Madison, WI

As a Research Scientist, you'll bridge simulation and experiment to drive groundbreaking progress ... PhD in Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years' experience in theoretical and ...

Realta Fusion Inc.

Research Scientist

Madison, WI

As a Research Scientist, you'll bridge simulation and experiment to drive groundbreaking progress ... PhD in Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years' experience in theoretical and ...

Realta Fusion, Inc.

Research Scientist

Madison, WI · On-site

As a Research Scientist, you'll bridge simulation and experiment to drive groundbreaking progress ... PhD in Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years' experience in theoretical and ...

Substrate

Research Scientist, AI

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Research Scientist, AI Substrate is addressing one of the most important technological problems ... At the intersection of advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge physics, we are developing ...

Metron

Research Scientist

Reston, VA

... research & development customers. Areas of focus span a broad spectrum from data analysis and ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, applied mathematics, physics, engineering, operations ...

Metron

Research Scientist

Reston, VA · On-site

... research & development customers. Areas of focus span a broad spectrum from data analysis and ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, applied mathematics, physics, engineering, operations ...

Tabula

Research Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The core of our scientific work is the development of physics-based mathematical models of phage ... This is a research-oriented role for a computational physicist (or someone with an equivalent ...

Williammary

Research Scientist

Gloucester Point, VA

$65K/yr

Integrate AI methodologies with physics-based numerical models * Explore hybrid modeling frameworks ... Present research findings at scientific conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings * Support ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhysics Research Scientist Jobs

Physics Research Scientist information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do physics research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics research scientist?

To thrive as a Physics Research Scientist, you need advanced knowledge of physics principles, strong analytical skills, and typically a Ph.D. in physics or a closely related field. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and data analysis software is commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with colleagues and presenting complex findings. These skills and qualifications are vital for advancing scientific understanding, securing research funding, and contributing meaningful discoveries to the field.

What are some common challenges physics research scientists face when working on collaborative projects?

Physics Research Scientists often work in interdisciplinary teams that may include engineers, technicians, and researchers from other scientific backgrounds. One common challenge is effectively communicating complex theoretical concepts to team members with different expertise, ensuring everyone is aligned on project goals and methodologies. Additionally, coordinating experiments and integrating various data sources can require strong organizational and problem-solving skills. Navigating these challenges successfully not only enhances project outcomes but also contributes to professional growth and the development of collaborative skills.

What is the difference between Physics Research Scientist vs Physics Engineer?

AspectPhysics Research ScientistPhysics Engineer
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Physics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesIndustrial settings, R&D departments, manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government research, scientific institutionsTechnology companies, aerospace, defense, manufacturing

Physics Research Scientists focus on fundamental research and theoretical studies, often working in academic or government labs. Physics Engineers apply physics principles to develop practical solutions, products, or systems in industrial settings. While both roles require strong physics knowledge, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

Is physics research a good career?

Physics research is a specialized career that involves conducting experiments, developing theories, and analyzing data to advance scientific understanding. It often requires advanced degrees such as a Ph.D., strong analytical skills, and proficiency with laboratory tools and programming. While it can be intellectually rewarding and contribute to technological progress, it may also involve competitive funding environments and variable job stability.

What does a physics research scientist do?

A physics research scientist conducts experiments and studies to understand the fundamental principles of matter, energy, and the universe. They analyze data, develop theories, and use specialized tools like laboratory equipment and computer simulations, often working in academic, government, or industrial research settings. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of physics are essential for this role.
More about Physics Research Scientist jobs

What cities are hiring for Physics Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Physics Research Scientist job openings:

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

The most popular types of Physics Research Scientist jobs are:

What states have the most Physics Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Physics Research Scientist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Physics Research Scientist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Research Scientist jobs are:

Physics Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Physics Research Scientist (PhD)

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Synthires
See more jobs at Synthiresexternal

$80 - $135/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

About the Job

Research Physics Expert

Location: Remote

Engagement Type: Hourly Contract

Compensation: $80–$135/hour

About the Opportunity

This opportunity is for experienced Physics Researchers interested in contributing to advanced AI research and evaluation projects. You will help develop and validate high-quality reference solutions for frontier-level physics benchmarks, ensuring that next-generation AI systems are evaluated against rigorous scientific standards.

The work involves solving complex research-level physics problems, reviewing expert solutions, and contributing to the creation of human-verified benchmark data used to measure AI reasoning capabilities.

Ideal Qualifications

• PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher, Faculty Member, or Industry Research Scientist in Physics or a related field.

• Expertise in one or more areas including High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics, Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, AMO Physics, Cosmology, Astrophysics, Quantum Information, or Quantum Mechanics.

• Strong publication record demonstrating research expertise in a relevant subfield.

• Experience solving complex research-level physics problems and developing rigorous scientific analyses.

• Proficiency with Python, Jupyter Notebooks, SymPy, and LaTeX.

• Excellent analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and scientific communication skills.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to scientific accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Solve research-level physics problems and develop complete reference solutions.

• Create structured problem decompositions and verification methodologies.

• Author Python-based answer templates and automated validation functions.

• Review and audit submitted solutions for correctness, rigor, and methodological soundness.

• Provide detailed feedback to improve solution quality and benchmark reliability.

• Adjudicate between competing solution approaches and determine final reference answers.

• Document derivations, verification procedures, error tolerances, and scientific rationale.

• Contribute to the development of high-quality benchmark datasets for evaluating frontier AI systems.

Project Details

• Expected commitment of approximately 10 hours per week.

• Fully remote and asynchronous work environment.

• Opportunity to collaborate with leading AI researchers and domain experts.

• Long-term project engagement with potential extensions based on project needs.

Compensation

• Competitive compensation of $80–$135/hour.

• Weekly payments.

• Independent contractor engagement.

Application Process

  1. Submit your resume, publication record, or research background.
  2. Complete any required assessment or evaluation.
  3. Participate in the expert review process.
  4. Final selection and onboarding.


Apply