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Quantum Field Theory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Physics AI Specialist

$80/hr

String Theory, Quantum Field Theory, Particle Physics, and Nuclear Physics * General Relativity, Astrophysics, and Cosmology What You'll Do * Create challenging, graduate-level physics problems ...

IBM

Quantum Algorithms Theory Intern 2027

Yorktown, NY · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

D. or research-focused Master's) in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a closely related field, with a focus on quantum computing, quantum information theory, or theoretical ...

IBM

Quantum Algorithms Theory Intern 2027

Boston, MA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

D. or research-focused Master's) in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a closely related field, with a focus on quantum computing, quantum information theory, or theoretical ...

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IBM

$16 - $21.25/hr

D. or research-focused Master's) in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a closely related field, with a focus on quantum computing, quantum information theory, or theoretical ...

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How much do quantum field theory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for quantum field theory in the United States is $25.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is quantum field theory?

Quantum field theory (QFT) is a fundamental framework in physics that combines classical field theory, special relativity, and quantum mechanics. It describes how particles, such as electrons and photons, are excitations of underlying fields, and it allows physicists to predict the outcomes of particle interactions with remarkable accuracy. QFT is essential for understanding phenomena in high-energy physics, condensed matter physics, and cosmology. It forms the foundation for the Standard Model, which explains the electromagnetic, weak, and strong nuclear forces.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in quantum field theory research roles?

Professionals working in Quantum Field Theory (QFT) research often face the challenge of dealing with highly abstract mathematical concepts and complex calculations that require advanced analytical and computational skills. Collaboration is essential, as QFT researchers typically work within interdisciplinary teams, including theoretical physicists, mathematicians, and experimentalists, to interpret results and develop new models. Additionally, staying current with the latest developments and techniques in the field is crucial, as QFT is a rapidly evolving area with ongoing advancements. Persistence and problem-solving are key, as projects can be long-term and sometimes yield incremental progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quantum field theorist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quantum Field Theorist, you need advanced knowledge in theoretical physics, strong mathematical skills, and typically a PhD in physics or a related field. Proficiency with computational tools like Mathematica, MATLAB, and familiarity with programming languages such as Python or C++ are commonly required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective scientific communication help set outstanding theorists apart. These skills enable rigorous analysis, innovative research, and clear dissemination of complex concepts essential to advancing the field.

What is the difference between Quantum Field Theory vs Quantum Mechanics?

AspectQuantum Field TheoryQuantum Mechanics
Required credentialsAdvanced degrees in physics, often PhDBachelor's or Master's in physics or related field
Work environmentResearch labs, universities, high-energy physics facilitiesLaboratories, academic settings, research institutions
Industry usageHigh-energy physics, particle physics, cosmologyAtomic, molecular, condensed matter physics
Search and comparison intentUnderstanding fundamental particles and forcesStudying atomic and subatomic systems

Quantum Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics are both fundamental physics frameworks. Quantum Field Theory extends quantum mechanics to include special relativity and describes particle interactions at high energies, often requiring advanced degrees and research environments. Quantum Mechanics focuses on atomic and subatomic systems at lower energies. While they share foundational principles, their applications and complexity differ significantly.

What other helpful pages are available for Quantum Field Theory?

Other pages related to Quantum Field Theory:

Infographic showing various Quantum Field Theory job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,387 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellow in Quantum Physics

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Indiana University Academic Positions
See more jobs at Indiana University Academic Positionsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Title Postdoctoral Fellow in Quantum Physics Appointment Status Non-Tenure Track Department IU Bloomington Physics Location Bloomington Position Summary
A Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Quantum Optical Physics: Theoretical, Simulation, Modeling for Experimental Design
Title: Postdoctoral Fellow, physics
Appointment Status: Non-tenure track
Department: Department of Physics, Indiana University Bloomington
Location: Bloomington, Indiana, U.S.A.
Position Summary: The Department of Physics at Indiana University Bloomington invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position. This position is designed for a researcher who sits at the intersection of theoretical and experimental physics. The successful candidate will lead the architectural design/modeling/simulation of a groundbreaking experiment: the direct harvesting and extraction of quantum entanglement from the electromagnetic vacuum states. This is a design-phase experiment of the project, which requires simulations, modeling, calculation based on experimentally feasible and practical constrains and conditions to deliver an experiment-ready blueprint and architecture.
Key Research Responsibilities include: (1) Theoretical Modeling: Develop and refine models for entanglement harvesting using continuous-variable quantum information theory and Gaussian quantum states steering. (2) Experimental Simulation: Simulate the detection of vacuum fluctuations via electro-optic sampling, incorporating realistic parameters for femtosecond few-cycle laser pulses, terahertz bandwidths, and detector electronics. (3) System Architecture: Define the critical engineering requirements (optical pulse duration, terahertz crystal materials in cryogenetic environments, signal-to-noise ratio optimization, entanglement witnesses and verification) necessary to resolve the entangled vacuum variance.
Relevant keywords of this project in experiment includes: electro-optic sampling, terahertz pulses, femtosecond laser pulses, ultrafast optics, carrier-envelope phase/offset, balanced homodyne detection; keywords in theory includes: relativistic quantum information science, quantum field theory, quantum optics, quantum fluctuations of the vacuum, Unruh-DeWitt detector model, entanglement harvesting, entanglement witness.
In this exciting role and project, you will work under the direction of Prof. Chen-Ting Liao and in collaboration with other team members and collaborators. For additional information about the Liao research group, please visit: https://sites.google.com/view/chentingliao/
Department Contact for Questions: Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to Prof. Chen-Ting Liao (Liao3[at]IU.edu)
Basic Qualifications:
Eligibility according to the project sponsor: (1) U.S. citizenship, or (2) U.S. Permanent Resident/Green Card holder, or (3) in the application process to become a U.S. Permanent Resident/Green Card holder.
Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Quantum Information Science, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field at the time of appointment. (ABD candidates will be considered).
Demonstrated ability to bridge theoretical concepts with physical realizability.
Strong track record of scientific research and peer-reviewed publications.
Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
High degree of independence and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
Additional Qualifications:
Theory: Expertise in quantum optics, quantum information science, or quantum field theory.
Simulation: Proficiency in MATLAB or Python for simulation/modeling and data analysis.
Experience with COMSOL Multiphysics and/or Lumerical is a plus.
Experiment: Familiarity with ultrafast optics, terahertz generation, or balanced homodyne detection is highly desirable.
Design: some experience using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for experimental layouts is advantageous.
Required Documents: (1) Curriculum Vitae (including completed degrees, list of publications, research experience, and expertise), (2) Letter of Application (cover letter), (3) contact information of at least two references. Applications should be submitted through the application portal located at: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/31923
Expected Start Date: Summer 2026. Applications will be reviewed starting on 2/15/26 and will continue until the position is filled.
Salary and Rank: $54-59K/yr, Postdoctoral Fellow. The initial appointment for this position will be for 2 years. Additional 1 year extension will be available based on performance, mutual agreement, and funding availability of the phase II of the project. A competitive benefits package will be offered by the University.

Basic Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
Eligibility according to the project sponser: (1) U.S. citizenship, or (2) U.S. Permanent Resident/Green Card holder, or (3) in the application process to become a U.S. Permanent Resident/Green Card holder.
Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Quantum Information Science, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field at the time of appointment. (ABD candidates will be considered).
Demonstrated ability to bridge theoretical concepts with physical realizability.
Strong track record of scientific research and peer-reviewed publications.
Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
High degree of independence and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
Department Contact for Questions
Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to Prof. Chen-Ting Liao (Liao3[at]IU.edu)
Additional Qualifications
Additional Qualifications:
Theory: Expertise in quantum optics, quantum information science, or quantum field theory.
Simulation: Proficiency in MATLAB or Python for simulation/modeling and data analysis.
Experience with COMSOL Multiphysics and/or Lumerical is a plus.
Experiment: Familiarity with ultrafast optics, terahertz generation, or balanced homodyne detection is highly desirable.
Design: some experience using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for experimental layouts is advantageous.
Salary and Rank Special Instructions For Best Consideration Date 02/15/2026 Expected Start Date 07/01/2026 Posting Number IU-101463-2026

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