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Research Physicist Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant subfield. * Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics ...

PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant subfield. * Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics ...

PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant subfield. * Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics ...

PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant subfield. * Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics ...

PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant subfield. * Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics ...

Physicist Full Time Days Position Summary Quality assurance of the radiation producing apparatus in ... research programs within the Department Responsibilities Quality assurance of the radiation ...

Physicist Full Time Days Position Summary Quality assurance of the radiation producing apparatus in ... research programs within the Department Responsibilities Quality assurance of the radiation ...

Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics, Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter (including moiré systems, magnetism, PXP/Rydberg), AMO/Quantum ...

Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics, Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter (including moiré systems, magnetism, PXP/Rydberg), AMO/Quantum ...

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Research Physicist information

See Tennessee salary details

$35.9K

$86K

$205.6K

How much do research physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for research physicist in Tennessee is $86,046.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $101,700.00 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 Tennessee?

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

Infographic showing various Research Physicist job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,046 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Faculty Position, Department of Radiation Oncology - Medical Physicist

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Memphis, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago


St. Jude Children's Research Hospital rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 1,061 rated hospitals


Job description

SJCRH
The Department of Radiation Oncology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital an accomplished medical physicist to join its faculty. Academic rank will be determined based on the candidate's experience, academic record, and publication history.
St. Jude's Department of Radiation Oncology is dedicated to the research and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer, with expertise in brain, musculoskeletal, and solid tumors. We are especially interested in candidates with a strong interest in proton therapy and in developing innovative approaches to treatment targeting, treatment planning and delivery, and toxicity modeling.
This position offers exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with investigators across multiple St. Jude cancer center programs. The department is committed to supporting academic innovation and provides substantial resources for protected research time, research development, and scholarly productivity.
Department and Clinical Environment
The Department of Radiation Oncology includes:
• Six full-time medical physics faculty members
• One staff clinical physicist
• Four dosimetrists
• Two medical physics assistants
• A dedicated linear accelerator engineer
• Information systems and research staff, including research scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and clinical research associates.
• Five full-time pediatric radiation oncologists
• Dedicated nursing, radiation therapy, and child life teams
As one of the largest pediatric radiation oncology programs in the world, the department treats approximately 300 children, adolescents, and young adults each year.
The department occupies approximately 45,000 square feet of clinical space, including dedicated areas for clinical care, treatment planning, radiation therapy, and sedation and anesthesia support.
Advanced Technology and Proton Therapy
Our clinical and research environment provides access to advanced imaging and radiation therapy technologies, including:
• Image-guided linear accelerator
• Spectral CT
• PET/CT
• 1.5T and 3.0T MRI systems dedicated to treatment planning and on-treatment assessment
• Advanced treatment planning and image-guidance capabilities
The Proton Therapy Center features a synchrotron, high-energy beam transport, two gantry treatment rooms, and a fixed-beam room. Each treatment room is equipped with high-precision patient positioning, volumetric image-guidance systems, and dedicated scanning nozzles.
The St. Jude Proton Therapy Center is the world's first proton therapy facility dedicated exclusively to the treatment of children with cancer, providing an unparalleled environment for clinical innovation and translational research in pediatric radiation therapy.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will have:
• A PhD in medical physics, engineering, or related physical science
• Certification in radiation oncology physics by ABR, ABMP, or CCPM, or eligibility for certification, is highly desirable.
• A demonstrated record of academic productivity and publications commensurate with the proposed faculty rank
• Strong potential for collaborative research and academic contributions
Foreign equivalencies for these qualifications may be considered.
How to apply:
Interested candidates should submit the following materials directly online:
• Curriculum vitae
• A letter describing career plans, research interests, and academic goals.
• Names of three professional references
For more information:
Chia-ho Hua, PhD, DABR, FAAPM
Member
Director of Medical Physics Research
Department of Radiation Oncology
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
262 Danny Thomas Place, Mail Stop 210
Memphis, TN 38105
901-595-3610
St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
No Search Firms
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.


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