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Postdoctoral Plasma Physics Spectroscopy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zap Energy

Senior Research Scientist

Everett, WA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

... systems (interferometry, spectroscopy, neutronics, Thomson scattering, magnetics, etc ... PhD in plasma physics or closely related field and 7-10+ years of relevant experience

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How much do postdoctoral plasma physics spectroscopy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral plasma physics spectroscopy in the United States is $85,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Postdoctoral Plasma Physics Spectroscopy position?

A Postdoctoral Plasma Physics Spectroscopy position is a research-focused role for individuals who have recently earned their PhD, often in physics or a related field. In this position, the researcher investigates the properties and behaviors of plasma—an ionized state of matter—using spectroscopy techniques to analyze emitted light and other electromagnetic signals. The role typically involves designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings, often as part of a university or national laboratory team. Postdocs in this field contribute to advancements in fusion energy, astrophysics, and industrial plasma applications.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers in plasma physics spectroscopy, and how can they be addressed?

Postdoctoral researchers in plasma physics spectroscopy often encounter challenges such as managing complex diagnostic equipment, synthesizing large datasets, and staying current with rapidly evolving research methods. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams is essential, as projects often intersect with engineering, computational modeling, and theoretical physics. Effective communication skills and a proactive approach to learning new techniques can help overcome these challenges. Seeking mentorship and participating in collaborative research networks are valuable strategies for professional growth and successful project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoctoral Plasma Physics Spectroscopy researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Plasma Physics Spectroscopy researcher, you need an advanced degree (PhD) in plasma physics or a related field, along with deep expertise in spectroscopic diagnostics and data analysis. Familiarity with laboratory plasma devices, spectroscopic instruments (such as optical emission and absorption spectrometers), and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies enable rigorous experimental design, accurate interpretation of complex data, and effective collaboration within interdisciplinary research teams.
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Postdoctoral Plasma Physics Spectroscopy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Plasma Physics Spectroscopy job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

NIST PREP Postdoc Associate in RF Metrology for Plasma Etching Processes

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Boulder, CO • On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.
Research Title: RF metrology for plasma etching processes
The work will entail: The postdoc will develop high-power RF waveform metrology for plasma etching processes. Work will entail developing uncertainty analyses for measurements with RF measurement equipment, including network analyzers, oscilloscopes, arbitrary waveform generators, and power sensors. These tools will be used to measure waveforms up to 5 kW, in the frequency range from approximately 10 kHz to 225 MHz. In addition to establishing measurement procedures for high-power RF signals, the postdoc will apply these techniques to measuring plasma on a real semiconductor fabrication tool used for etching and deposition processes. We will combine optical diagnostics and RF waveform metrology to try to improve consistency in semiconductor manufacturing.
U.S. Citizen Preferred
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
  • Measurements: develop measurement procedures, write code to automate measurements, perform measurements, keep detailed notes.
  • Data analysis and modelling: analyze data from RF measurements, and interpreting the results in the context of electromagnetic theory and plasma physics.
  • Safety: Carefully follow laboratory safety procedures and proactively work to identify and mitigate safety hazards.
  • Communication: Work with colleagues to develop research plans and share results.
  • Research reporting: Report results to stakeholders and the scientific community through conference presentations and journal papers.

Qualifications
  • PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a related field.
  • Practical research experience using laboratory equipment (preferably electrical/RF test equipment).
  • Practical research experience focused on electronics, optics, electromagnetic wave propagation, and/or interaction of electromagnetic waves with materials or devices.
  • Familiarity with multivariate calculus, linear algebra, and statistics in a research context.
  • Experience implementing novel algorithms for data analysis or modelling in a research context.
  • Experience with scientific programming in Python or another scripting language, and willingness to use Python.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.

Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate the administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated. By applying to a CHIPS-funded PREP opportunity, you also acknowledge that participation in the project requires signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prior to beginning any work.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
PREP0004515

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