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Theoretical Particle Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

The Eberly College of Science, Department of Physics at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking to fill a Postdoctoral Scholar position in Theoretical Particle and Astroparticle Physics to start ...

The elementary-particle theory faculty at Penn State consists of Carlos Blanco, Jacob Bourjaily ... D. in Physics. Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, CV and ...

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Theoretical Particle Physics information

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$10

$33

$108

How much do theoretical particle physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for theoretical particle physics in the United States is $33.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $35.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by theoretical particle physicists in their daily work?

Theoretical particle physicists often encounter challenges such as navigating highly abstract mathematical concepts, staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving research, and ensuring their models align with experimental data. Collaboration is key, as they frequently work within interdisciplinary teams, including experimentalists and computational physicists, to validate and refine theories. Additionally, publishing results and securing research funding are competitive aspects of the field, requiring strong communication and grant-writing skills.

What is theoretical particle physics?

Theoretical particle physics is a branch of physics that seeks to understand the fundamental particles and forces that make up the universe, using mathematical models and abstractions. Unlike experimental particle physicists, theoretical particle physicists do not work directly with particle accelerators or detectors. Instead, they develop theories, such as the Standard Model, to explain observed phenomena and predict new ones. Their work often guides experiments and helps interpret experimental results, advancing our understanding of the universe at its most basic level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Theoretical Particle Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Theoretical Particle Physicist, you need an advanced degree (usually a Ph.D.) in physics or a closely related field, with a deep understanding of quantum mechanics, field theory, and advanced mathematics. Proficiency in computational tools such as Mathematica, Python, or specialized simulation software, as well as experience with research publication databases, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and effective scientific communication are vital soft skills for developing novel theories and collaborating with the scientific community. These competencies are crucial for advancing fundamental knowledge, publishing impactful research, and contributing to major scientific discoveries.

What is an example of theoretical?

In theoretical particle physics, an example of a theoretical concept is the Higgs mechanism, which explains how particles acquire mass through field interactions. Theoretical work often involves developing models, mathematical frameworks, and predictions that can be tested through experiments and observations.

What does being theoretical mean?

In the context of theoretical particle physics, being theoretical involves developing models and mathematical frameworks to understand fundamental particles and forces without relying on experimental data. Theoretical physicists use advanced mathematics, computer simulations, and conceptual reasoning to predict phenomena that can later be tested experimentally.

What do you mean theoretically?

In theoretical particle physics, working 'theoretically' involves developing models, mathematical frameworks, and simulations to understand fundamental particles and forces without conducting experiments. Theoretical physicists use advanced mathematics, programming tools, and literature review to make predictions that can guide experimental research.

What is the difference between Theoretical Particle Physics vs Experimental Particle Physics?

AspectTheoretical Particle PhysicsExperimental Particle Physics
Required credentialsPhD in Physics or related field, strong math and modeling skillsPhD or Master's in Physics, hands-on laboratory skills
Work environmentTheoretical labs, computer simulations, research institutionsLaboratories, research facilities, collider experiments
Employer and industry usageUniversities, research institutes, government labsResearch labs, collider facilities, universities
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding theoretical models, mathematical researchData collection, experiment design, hands-on testing

Both roles are essential in particle physics research but differ mainly in focus: Theoretical Particle Physicists develop models and simulations, while Experimental Particle Physicists conduct experiments to test these theories. They often collaborate closely within the same industry and share similar educational backgrounds.

More about Theoretical Particle Physics jobs
What states have the most Theoretical Particle Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Theoretical Particle Physics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Theoretical Particle Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Theoretical Particle Physics jobs are:
Infographic showing various Theoretical Particle Physics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,713 per year, or $33 per hour.
Assistant Professor in Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics (#0082101)

Assistant Professor in Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics (#0082101)

University of Hawaii

Honolulu, HI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


University Of Hawaii System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 536 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : UH Manoa, Honolulu, HI
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Number: 2025-00503
Department: University of Hawai'i at Manoa - College of Natural Sciences - Physics and Astronomy
Opening Date: 02/21/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Number:: 0082101
Description
This is a re-advertisment and prior advertisement was posted from October 2, 2024, to February 21, 2025. Please see the information about the position, the duties and responsibilities, the minimum and desirable qualifications, and the job application attachments below:
Title: Assistant Professor in Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics
Position Number: 0082101
Hiring Unit: College of Natural Sciences - Department of Physics & Astronomy
Location: University of Hawaii at Manoa
Date Posted: February 21, 2025
Closing Date: Continuous recruitment until position is filled - application review begins March 17, 2025
Monthly Type: 9 months
Tenure Track: Tenure Track
Full Time/Part Time: Full Time
Temporary/Permanent: Permanent
Job Description
TENURE TRACK FACULTY POSITION IN ELEMENTARY PARTICLE THEORY:
The Physics and Astronomy (P&A) Department in the College of Natural Sciences at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa (UHM) invites applications for a permanent, full-time (9-month) tenure-track Assistant Professor with a broad range of research interests in theoretical particle physics to begin approximately August 1, 2025. The ideal candidate will overlap with as well as bring a new direction to the current activities in the high energy theory group that include: neutrino physics and astrophysics, physics beyond the Standard Model, dark matter physics, flavor physics and CP violation, gravitational wave physics, and cosmology.
The experimental high energy physics activities at the University of Hawai'i presently include studies of CP violation in heavy quark decays, neutrino physics and astrophysics, radio detection of high energy particles, direct dark matter detection, studies of cosmic rays using satellites and balloons, and development of new particle detectors, accelerators, and associated instrumentation. The Department also collaborates closely with the Institute for Astronomy (IfA). More information about the Department of Physics and Astronomy can be found at
Duties and Responsibilities
1. Teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, providing service to the Department, University, profession and community. Teaching responsibilities will include undergraduate and graduate courses in Physics.
2. Providing mentoring and research opportunities for undergraduate students, graduate student and postdoctoral students.
3. Establishing a vigorous extramurally funded research program in the broad area of phenomenological particle physics, including applications of particle physics to cosmology and particle astrophysics.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Earned Ph.D. in physics or equivalent terminal degree from a college or university of recognized standing in a field relevant to the position by the time of hire
2. Professionalism in meeting and conferring with others.
3. Evidence of research productivity.
4. University teaching experience.
Desirable Qualifications
1. At least three years of post-doctoral experience in elementary particle theory at the time of application.
2. Interest and ability for teaching a broad range of physics courses at the graduate and undergraduate level
3. Demonstrated record of an independent research program in theoretical particle physics
4. Demonstrated ability to supervise graduate student research.
5. Demonstrated scholarly achievement in forefront areas of elementary particle theory research.
To Apply
The applicants should submit: (1) a cover letter specifying the position and the research area; (2) a curriculum vitae detailing research and teaching accomplishments; (3) a statement on research interests, activities, and plans (no more than 5 pages); (4) a statement on teaching philosophy, interests, and plans (no more than 3 pages); (5) The applicant should arrange for 5 professional reference letters to be uploaded at AcademicJobsOnline. Only electronic applications are accepted via AcademicJobsOnline:
All complete applications received prior to March 20, 2025, will receive full consideration; we will continue to accept applications until the position is filled. Incomplete applications will not be considered and official transcripts with degree conferred will be required upon hire.
Inquires: Email Danny Marfatia ()
EEO, Clery Act, ADA
The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status. For more information, visit: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/
Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks.
In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office.
Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/

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The University of Hawaii, located in Honolulu, HI, US, is an internationally recognized institution of higher learning. Spanning across ten campuses, including one online university, it represents the public system of higher education in the state of Hawaii. Established in 1907, the university operates in the educational services industry, its mission rooted in quality and affordable education for all. It offers over 600 different study programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a broad spectrum of disciplines. Some of its unrivaled specialties encompass tropical agriculture, tropical medicine, oceanography, astronomy, electrical engineering, volcanology, and Pacific Islands and Asian area studies.

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Company size

10,000+ Employees

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Honolulu, HI, US

Year founded

1907