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Postdoctoral Materials Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Swarthmore College

Postdoctoral Researcher

Swarthmore, PA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Postdoctoral Researcher Apply now Job no: 495592 Work type: Limited Term Full Time Location ... We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with a PhD in materials science, physics, applied ...

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$59K

$83.5K

How much do postdoctoral materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 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 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 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 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 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.

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Cities with the most Postdoctoral Materials Science job openings:

What states have the most Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs look for?

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Postdoctoral Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Materials Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellow - Organic Optoelectronic Materials

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN • On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Details
Title
Postdoctoral Fellow - Organic Optoelectronic Materials
Appointment Status
Non-Tenure Track
Department
IU Bloomington Chemistry
Location
Bloomington
Position Summary
The Department of Chemistry in the College of Arts + Sciences at Indiana University, consists of a well-rounded research community with cutting-edge expertise in a wide variety of modern disciplines including analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, and biochemistry.
We are seeking a motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary research team at Indiana University, Bloomington. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research on the development of open- and closed-shell organic semiconducting materials for optoelectronic applications. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a collaborative environment with access to world-class facilities and to engage in high-impact research at the interface of chemistry, physics, and materials science.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Synthesize and characterize organic semiconductors, including small molecules and polymers.
  • Perform steady-state spectroscopy (UvVisNIR, luminescence, and CW-EPR)
  • Participate in time-resolved spectroscopy experiments (e.g., TCSPC and transient absorption).
  • Participate in electrochemical experiments (e.g., CV, EIS, GCD).
  • Collaborate closely with team members and external partners to design and interpret experiments.
  • Leverage state-of-the-art facilities, including a premier light microscopy center, for advanced optical characterization.

What We Offer:
  • An opportunity to work on groundbreaking research with state-of-the-art instrumentation and resources.
  • A collaborative research environment with internal and external partnerships.
  • Career development and mentorship opportunities in an exciting, rapidly evolving field.

Basic Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field.
  • Strong background in organic semiconductor synthesis and multi-step synthetic techniques.
  • Proficiency in steady-state and/or time-resolved spectroscopy is highly desirable.
  • An interdisciplinary mindset and eagerness to expand skills across chemistry, spectroscopy, and materials science.

Department Contact for Questions
Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to: Prof. Ricardo Vazquez, Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, ricvazqu@indiana.edu.
Additional Qualifications
Salary and Rank
Special Instructions
The initial appointment for this position will be for 12 months. Additional 12-month extension will be available based on performance. A competitive salary along with a benefits package will be offered.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to http://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/33131. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt.
For Best Consideration Date
05/18/2026
Expected Start Date
08/01/2026
Posting Number
IU-101561-2026

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