ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Soft Condensed Matter Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Draper

Senior Condensed Matter Physicist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$82K - $220K/yr

Summary: As a Senior Condensed Matter Physicist, the candidate will play a critical role in the ... A Senior Hardware Physics Engineer is a physicist, applied physicist, optical engineer, electrical ...

Draper

Senior Condensed Matter Physicist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$82K - $220K/yr

Summary: As a Senior Condensed Matter Physicist, the candidate will play a critical role in the ... A Senior Hardware Physics Engineer is a physicist, applied physicist, optical engineer, electrical ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Eberly College of Science, Department of Physics at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking to fill two postdoctoral positions in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics.The successful ...

The Pennsylvania State University

TheEberly College of Science, Department of PhysicsatThe Pennsylvania State Universityis seeking to fill two Postdoctoral Scholar positionsin Experimental Condensed Matter Physics .The successful ...

Indiana University

Postdoctoral Fellow

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

The successful applicant will be joining a vibrant department, with active theoretical and experimental research in condensed matter and AMO physics, as well as correlated condensed matter, quantum ...

YO AI Labs

Physics Expert - Remote

New York, NY · Remote

Condensed Matter Physics * AMO / Quantum Optics * Gravitation * Cosmology * Astrophysics * Quantum Information * Optical Properties of Materials * 3-5 recent representative publications in the target ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsSoft Condensed Matter Physics Jobs

Soft Condensed Matter Physics information

See salary details

$5

$17

$42

How much do soft condensed matter physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for soft condensed matter physics in the United States is $17.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.86 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is soft condensed matter physics?

Soft condensed matter physics is a branch of physics that studies materials which are easily deformed by external forces, thermal fluctuations, or internal stresses. These materials include liquids, polymers, gels, foams, colloids, and biological materials like membranes and proteins. Unlike hard condensed matter (such as metals and crystals), soft matter systems exhibit complex behavior due to their intermediate order and sensitivity to environmental conditions. Research in this field helps us understand the physical principles behind everyday materials and biological processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a soft condensed matter physicist?

To thrive as a Soft Condensed Matter Physicist, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and materials science, usually supported by a Ph.D. in physics or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB or COMSOL), experimental techniques, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration and communication skills help distinguish top performers in this area. These skills and qualities are essential for advancing research, interpreting complex phenomena, and contributing to multidisciplinary teams in both academic and industrial settings.

What are some common collaborative projects or interdisciplinary opportunities for professionals in soft condensed matter physics?

Professionals in soft condensed matter physics often collaborate with researchers in materials science, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Such interdisciplinary projects may involve studying the properties of polymers for medical devices, analyzing colloidal suspensions in food science, or developing new materials for energy storage. Working in this field typically means being part of a diverse research team, attending cross-disciplinary meetings, and contributing your expertise to broader scientific challenges. These collaborations not only enrich your research experience but also open up varied career paths in both academia and industry.

What is the difference between Soft Condensed Matter Physics vs Materials Scientist?

AspectSoft Condensed Matter PhysicsMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, PhD often preferredMaterials science or engineering degree, often with PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academiaIndustrial labs, manufacturing, research & development
Industry UsageFundamental research, academia, specialized industriesProduct development, materials innovation, manufacturing

Soft Condensed Matter Physics focuses on understanding the physical properties of soft materials like polymers, colloids, and biological materials through fundamental research. Materials Scientists apply this knowledge to develop and improve materials for practical applications in industry. While both roles require a strong background in physics or materials science, Soft Condensed Matter Physicists often work in academic or research settings, whereas Materials Scientists are more industry-oriented.

How much do soft condensed matter physicists make?

Soft condensed matter physicists typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with advanced research skills, publications, and positions in academia or industry research labs.

Is soft condensed matter physics in demand?

Soft condensed matter physics is a specialized field with demand primarily in academia, research institutions, and industries such as materials science, biotechnology, and nanotechnology. Job opportunities often require advanced degrees and expertise in experimental and theoretical techniques, with demand influenced by technological advancements and research funding.
More about Soft Condensed Matter Physics jobs

What cities are hiring for Soft Condensed Matter Physics jobs?

Cities with the most Soft Condensed Matter Physics job openings:

What states have the most Soft Condensed Matter Physics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Soft Condensed Matter Physics jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Soft Condensed Matter Physics jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Soft Condensed Matter Physics jobs are:

Soft Condensed Matter Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soft Condensed Matter Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,126 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar - Experimental Condensed Matter Physics

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The Eberly College of Science, Department of Physics at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking to fill two postdoctoral positions in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics. The successful candidate will actively engage in Prof. Cui-Zu Chang's research program (https://sites.psu.edu/changresearch/), which focuses on exploring quantum phenomena in films and heterostructures grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The projects in Cui-Zu's group encompass a range of techniques, including MBE growth, angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/S), nanoscale device fabrication, mechanical exfoliation, and dilution electrical transport measurements. We are seeking an ideal candidate with expertise in at least one of these areas.
Requirements include a Ph.D. in Physics or related fields. Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, CV, and statement of research interests. Applicants should arrange for three reference letters to be submitted to physicsapply@psu.edu indicating the appropriate job number in the subject line. This is a limited term appointment funded for one year from the date of hire, with the possibility of refunding. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is found.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Affirmative Action
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines
University Park, PA

What Penn State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply