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Postdoctoral Materials Science Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Materials Science information

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$23.3K

$55K

$77.8K

How much do postdoctoral materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral materials science in Texas is $54,988.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,700.00 and $62,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral materials scientist?

Postdoctoral materials scientists are researchers who have completed their doctoral degree (PhD) in materials science or a related field and are engaged in advanced research, typically at a university, laboratory, or industrial setting. Their work involves designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings to advance knowledge in materials science. Postdocs often collaborate with other scientists and may mentor graduate or undergraduate students. This position helps scientists further develop their expertise and prepare for independent research careers in academia, industry, or government.

What are common challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers in materials science, and how can they be managed?

Postdoctoral researchers in materials science often face challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, managing time between lab work and publishing, and securing funding for specialized experiments. Navigating interdisciplinary teams can also require strong communication skills, as research frequently overlaps with fields like chemistry, engineering, or physics. Building strong mentorship networks and proactively seeking professional development opportunities can help address these challenges and support career advancement.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a postdoctoral materials scientist?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Materials Scientist, you need a Ph.D. in materials science or a related field, strong research skills, and expertise in materials characterization and synthesis. Familiarity with analytical instruments (such as SEM, TEM, XRD), scientific programming languages, and experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals are typically expected. Critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and effective scientific communication are key soft skills for success in this role. These qualifications and skills are essential for advancing research, securing funding, and contributing to innovative scientific discoveries.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Materials Science vs Postdoctoral Chemistry?

AspectPostdoctoral Materials SciencePostdoctoral Chemistry
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Materials Science, Engineering, or related fieldPh.D. in Chemistry or related discipline
Work EnvironmentResearch labs focused on materials development, characterization, and applicationLaboratories emphasizing chemical synthesis, analysis, and reactions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, industry R&D in materials and nanotechnologyAcademic institutions, chemical companies, pharmaceutical R&D
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in materials research and developmentExploring chemistry-focused postdoctoral opportunities

Postdoctoral Materials Science and Postdoctoral Chemistry share similar credentials and research environments but focus on different scientific areas. Materials Science emphasizes developing and analyzing new materials, while Chemistry centers on chemical reactions and synthesis. Both roles are vital in research institutions and industry, but they cater to distinct research interests and applications.

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Materials Science job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,988 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX • On-site

$50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


University Of Texas At Dallas rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Posting Number
S06818P
Position Title
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Functional Title
Postdoc
Department
Chemistry
Salary Range
Starting at $50,000; Dependent on Experience
Pay Basis
Monthly
Position Status
Regular full-time
Location
Richardson
Position End Date (if temporary)
Posting Open Date
01/16/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Desired Start Date
03/01/2026
Job Summary
The Sterling Group at the University of Texas at Dallas is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to explore polymer upcycling. Our research program integrates automated computational modelling, theoretical physical organic chemistry and electronic structure theory to advance our understanding of chemical reactivity. We aim to develop new concepts and computational tools to drive innovation across chemistry, biochemistry, materials science, and pharmaceutical research. We work closely with experimentalists to investigate reaction mechanisms, with an emphasis on catalysis and polymer chemistry.
Minimum Education and Experience
Ph.D in a related field.
Preferred Education and Experience
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
  • Experience with molecular dynamics simulations, applicable to materials science, biomolecules, or a related field.
  • Programming experience (e.g., Python), with a strong background in developing and applying computational tools in research.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a proven track record of publishing scientific papers and delivering presentations.
  • Experience with machine learning techniques, particularly machine-learned interatomic potentials, in the context of chemical research.
  • Knowledge of atomistic and coarse-grained classical force fields.
  • Experience creating and maintaining scientific software.

Other Qualifications
To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Plan and execute computational studies related to modeling polymer properties.
  • Collaborate as part of an interdisciplinary team to design computational experiments and validate models.
  • Prepare reports and present findings at national and international conferences.
  • Write manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions
Physical Activities
Working Conditions
Additional Information
Work is conducted on site and in person.
What we have to Offer:UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer an employee-friendly work environment with a comprehensive benefit package including:
  • Competitive Salary
  • Tuition Benefits
  • Medical insurance - including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full-time employees
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Long and short-term disability
  • Retirement Plan Options
  • Paid time off
  • Paid Holidays

About UT Dallas
The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to graduating well-rounded members of the global community whose education has prepared them for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world. UT Dallas is a place where members of the community are welcomed, treated fairly, and encouraged to their pursuit of excellence.
UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program.
Visit https://hr.utdallas.edu/employees/benefits/ for more information.
Special Instructions Summary
Important Message
1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.
2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.

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