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How much do postdoctoral materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral materials science in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are postdoctoral materials scientists?

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 some 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoctoral Materials Scientist, and why are they important?

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.

More about Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Materials Science job openings:
What states have the most Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs are:
Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Materials Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate - College of Engineering - Materials Science and Engineering

Postdoctoral Research Associate - College of Engineering - Materials Science and Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 553 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world's most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn't imagine the future, we invent it. If you're passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!
As one of the oldest forms of applied science and engineering, Carnegie Mellon University's Department of Metallurgical Engineering was founded in 1906 and named after its emphasis on the study of metals. Since then, our field has broadened to include all classes of materials from ceramics and polymers to semiconductors and biological materials. Whereas early eras of civilization were widely identified by human's ability to work with new material (Stone Age, Bronze Age), today our abilities and projects span a variety of materials and combine everything from physics and chemistry to civil and electrical engineering.
Carnegie Mellon University's department of Materials Science and Engineering is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to join Marc De Graef's group in the Materials Science and Engineering Department in the College of Engineering. The postdoc will make use of the experimental and computational tools in the Materials Characterization Facility to develop and employ novel techniques for defect characterization in solids. Core responsibilities include:
Core Responsibilities:
  • Expert on modalities in the scanning electron microscope (SEM): Electron Back- Scatter Diffraction (EBSD), Electron Channeling Contrast Imaging (ECCI), and other SEM-based modalities
  • Expert on modalities in the transmission electron microscope (TEM): conventional imaging and diffraction, STEM Diffraction Contrast Imaging
  • Develop workflows for in-situ thermo-mechanical experiments in the SEM
  • Conduct simulations for all the above experimental modalities using the EMsoft00 package and related similar software
  • Perform data analysis and visualization
  • Train and supervise masters and doctoral students
  • Coordinate research with external collaborators
  • Report and present results
  • Identify problems and obstacles to progress; develop strategies to tackle problems
  • Participate in writing high impact papers, reports, proposals, and training
  • Document procedures and workflows; curate and preserve data
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.
Qualifications:
  • PhD Degree in MSE or a related field (e.g., physics, chemistry, chemical engineering)
  • Publications in peer-reviewed journals
  • Demonstrated experience in materials characterization techniques
  • Expert in the importance of defects for material properties and performance
  • Expert in combining different numerical tools via Python scripting
  • Experience in performing complex simulations
  • Experience training and supervising students
  • High proficiency in writing and communication skills, teamwork, and presentation skills.
  • A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Pre/Post-Doctoral Associates & Fellows
Position Type
Postdoctoral Associate / Fellow (Fixed Term)
Full Time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Salary
More Information:
  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
  • Statement of Assurance

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