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Research Physicist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Elanco

Advisor R&D

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Lead ML/CV work for key R&D programs, partnering with scientists to turn target identification ... PhD in a quantitative field (e.g., Data Science, Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Statistics ...

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Research Physicist information

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$37.6K

$90.2K

$215.5K

How much do research physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for research physicist in Indiana is $90,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,100.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research physicist?

A Research Physicist studies physical phenomena to develop new theories, conduct experiments, and apply scientific principles to solve complex problems. They work in various fields, including quantum mechanics, materials science, and nuclear physics, often in academic, government, or industrial settings. Their responsibilities include designing experiments, analyzing data, publishing findings, and developing new technologies.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a research physicist?

To thrive as a Research Physicist, you need an advanced degree in physics or a closely related field, a strong foundation in experimental or theoretical methods, and excellent analytical skills. Expertise in scientific computing tools like MATLAB, Python, or specialized simulation software, as well as experience operating advanced laboratory instruments, are often required. Effective communication, curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities distinguish top candidates. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing experiments, interpreting complex data, and successfully collaborating on innovative research projects.

What opportunities for career advancement are available to research physicists?

Research Physicists often begin their careers in postdoctoral or entry-level research positions and can progress to senior researcher, project leader, or principal investigator roles within academic, government, or industry settings. Advancement often comes with increased responsibility for managing research projects, supervising junior staff, and securing funding through grants. Many experienced Research Physicists may also move into research management, become university professors, or transition to specialized roles in R&D, patent analysis, or technical consulting. Professional growth is supported by ongoing publication, collaboration, and skill development in emerging technologies.

How much do research physicists get paid?

Research physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $125,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $200,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced degrees, specialized skills, and working in industry or government labs can influence compensation levels.

Is there a demand for research physicists?

Research physicists are in demand in industries such as aerospace, defense, energy, and technology, where their expertise in experimental and theoretical physics is valuable. Employment opportunities often require advanced degrees and proficiency with specialized tools like simulation software and laboratory equipment. Job growth is steady, especially in research institutions, government labs, and private sector R&D departments.

What do research physicists do?

Research physicists investigate the fundamental principles of matter, energy, and the universe through experiments, data analysis, and theoretical modeling. They often work in laboratories or academic settings, using tools like advanced microscopes, particle accelerators, and computer simulations to conduct their studies and contribute to scientific knowledge.

What are popular job titles related to Research Physicist jobs in Indiana?

For Research Physicist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Physicist jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Physicist jobs in Indiana are:

Research Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Physicist job openings in Indiana as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,213 per year, or $43.4 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 8 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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