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Postdoc Optics Photonics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quandela

Senior Research Scientist US

Washington, DC · On-site

$111K - $142K/yr

Mentor junior scientists, postdoctoral researchers, engineers, and interns. * Contribute to ... Integrated photonics * Quantum optics * Quantum algorithms * Quantum hardware architectures

Troy University

Postdoctoral Associate

Troy, AL · On-site

Conduct independent and collaborative research in Photonics, semiconductor plasmonics and energy ... Hands-on experience with fabrication techniques and optical characterization methods; experience ...

Piris Labs

$140K - $250K/yr

* PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, Optics, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of relevant industry or postdoctoral research experience. * Deep knowledge of laser physics ...

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Postdoc Optics Photonics information

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$65K

$124.2K

$185K

How much do postdoc optics photonics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc optics photonics in the United States is $124,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoc optics photonics?

Postdoc Optics Photonics positions are advanced research roles for individuals who have recently earned a PhD in physics, engineering, or a related field, with a focus on optics and photonics. These postdoctoral researchers work in universities, research institutes, or industry labs, conducting experiments and developing new technologies involving light, lasers, imaging systems, and optical materials. The goal is to contribute to scientific understanding and technological innovation in fields like telecommunications, biomedical imaging, quantum optics, and more. Postdocs typically publish their findings in scientific journals and may also mentor graduate students.

What types of collaborative projects can a postdoc in optics photonics expect to participate in within a research group?

As a Postdoc in Optics Photonics, you will often collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams that may include physicists, engineers, and material scientists. Projects frequently involve developing new optical devices, improving imaging techniques, or advancing photonic technologies, requiring regular meetings, joint experiments, and co-authorship on publications. You may also mentor graduate students and contribute to grant proposals, which helps build your leadership and project management skills. These collaborations not only enrich your research experience but also expand your professional network, opening doors for future academic or industry roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoc in optics photonics, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoc in Optics and Photonics, you need advanced knowledge in physics or engineering, a PhD in a relevant field, and expertise in optical systems and photonic devices. Proficiency with simulation software (such as COMSOL or Zemax), laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and collaboration skills help you excel in multidisciplinary research environments. These skills are essential for advancing scientific knowledge, successfully conducting experiments, and contributing to cutting-edge technological developments.

What is the difference between Postdoc Optics Photonics vs Postdoc Laser Science?

AspectPostdoc Optics PhotonicsPostdoc Laser Science
Required CredentialsPhD in optics, photonics, or related fieldPhD in laser physics, optics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry R&DResearch labs, industry, academic institutions
Industry UsageOptical communication, imaging, sensingLaser manufacturing, medical lasers, industrial applications
Common Search IntentResearch opportunities, academic positionsResearch roles, industry positions involving lasers

Postdoc Optics Photonics and Postdoc Laser Science share similar credentials and work environments, often overlapping in research settings. However, Optics Photonics focuses more on light manipulation and applications like imaging and communication, while Laser Science emphasizes laser development and industrial uses. Both roles are vital in advancing optical technologies and are frequently searched by researchers seeking specialized postdoctoral positions in their respective fields.

What other helpful pages are available for Postdoc Optics Photonics?

Other pages related to Postdoc Optics Photonics:

Infographic showing various Postdoc Optics Photonics job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 72% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,213 per year, or $59.7 per hour.

Senior Research Scientist US

Washington, DC • On-site

Quandela
See more jobs at Quandelaexternal

$111K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Quandela stands as a global leader in quantum computing, driven by groundbreaking technology and a strategic vision for scaling quantum solutions. The company's unique ability to offer both hardware and software solutions, along with its commitment to build energy efficient datacenters and scalability, positions it to play a key role in the next wave of innovation, and in many strategic and sovereign industrial sectors.
Join Us at the Forefront of Quantum Computing Innovation
We are seeking a Senior Research Scientist with a strong scientific background in quantum computing, quantum photonics, or a closely related field to contribute to and lead advanced research activities in the United States.
This role will focus on driving scientific excellence, developing innovative concepts, and translating research ideas into experimental, theoretical, or computational results that support Quandela's technology roadmap. The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams across quantum physics, integrated photonics, electronics, algorithms, software, and engineering.
The Senior Research Scientist will play a key role in advancing Quandela's research agenda, contributing to strategic research programs, supporting technical roadmaps, mentoring junior scientists, and strengthening collaborations with academic, government, and industrial partners.
Key Responsibilities
Scientific Research & Innovation
  • Conduct high-level research in quantum computing, quantum photonics, quantum information science, or related areas.
  • Develop novel scientific concepts, models, methods, and experimental or computational approaches aligned with Quandela's technology strategy.
  • Contribute to the design, analysis, and validation of quantum computing architectures, photonic quantum systems, components, algorithms, or enabling technologies.
  • Translate scientific advances into tangible research outputs, including prototypes, demonstrators, technical reports, publications, patents, and internal know-how.
  • Stay at the forefront of advances in quantum computing, integrated photonics, quantum hardware, and hardware/software architectures.
  • Identify emerging scientific opportunities and contribute insights to guide long-term research directions.

Technical Leadership
  • Provide scientific leadership within multidisciplinary R&D projects involving quantum physics, photonics, electronics, algorithms, and software engineering.
  • Define and refine research objectives, technical milestones, and scientific work plans in collaboration with research leads, engineers, and program stakeholders.
  • Support the transition from research concepts to proof-of-concept demonstrations, prototypes, and validation milestones.
  • Contribute to technical roadmap development and ensure research activities remain aligned with company objectives and project deliverables.
  • Review scientific results, challenge assumptions, and ensure rigorous research methodology and high-quality technical execution.

Collaboration & Program Support
  • Work closely with internal R&D teams to support project execution and milestone-driven progress.
  • Contribute scientific content to research proposals, technical reports, program reviews, and stakeholder presentations.
  • Support interactions with funding institutions, government agencies, universities, national laboratories, and industrial partners.
  • Participate in collaborative research programs and help coordinate scientific contributions across internal and external teams.
  • Represent Quandela at conferences, workshops, consortium meetings, and scientific events.

Mentoring & Knowledge Sharing
  • Mentor junior scientists, postdoctoral researchers, engineers, and interns.
  • Contribute to building a culture of scientific excellence, rigor, creativity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
  • Share expertise through internal seminars, technical reviews, documentation, and scientific discussions.
  • Help establish research best practices, technical standards, and collaborative working methods within a growing U.S. R&D environment.

Requirements
Qualifications & Skills
  • PhD in physics, quantum information science, quantum technologies, photonics, electrical engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or a related field.
  • Typically 7-10+ years of relevant research experience in quantum computing, quantum optics, photonics, or advanced quantum technologies.
  • Strong publication record and demonstrated ability to produce high-quality scientific results.
  • Deep understanding of at least one of the following areas:
    • Quantum information science
    • Photonic quantum computing
    • Integrated photonics
    • Quantum optics
    • Quantum algorithms
    • Quantum hardware architectures
    • Quantum error correction or fault-tolerant computing
  • Experience contributing to complex, multidisciplinary R&D projects.
  • Ability to connect scientific vision with practical technical execution.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with scientists, engineers, project managers, executives, and external partners.
  • Experience with government-funded research projects, technical reporting, or defense-related R&D programs is an asset.
  • Familiarity with intellectual property generation, patents, or technology transfer is desirable.
  • Eligibility Requirement: Applicants must be U.S. citizens to meet government program and security requirements.

Benefits
  • The opportunity to lead strategic national programs at the forefront of quantum technologies
  • A collaborative, innovative environment bridging cutting-edge science and industrial applications,
  • Competitive compensation package, including relocation support if required.
  • The chance to shape the future of quantum computing with one of the leading players in the field

At Quandela, we believe that the strength of our team is the plurality of experiences, perspectives, and journeys. We are committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment. All applications are welcome.

Apply