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Theoretical Particle Physics Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WI · On-site

... research in nuclear and particle science under faculty supervision. The program runs annually each summer; applications for Summer 2026 are open via the NSF ETAP system. Field Physics Level ...

The elementary-particle theory faculty at Penn State consists of Carlos Blanco, Jacob Bourjaily ... research interests. Applicants should arrange for three reference letters to be submitted to ...

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Theoretical Particle Physics Research information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do theoretical particle physics research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for theoretical particle physics research in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is theoretical particle physics research?

Theoretical particle physics research involves using mathematical models and theories to study the fundamental particles and forces that make up the universe. Researchers in this field aim to understand phenomena that cannot always be directly observed, such as the behavior of quarks, leptons, and the fundamental forces. They often develop new theories or modify existing ones to explain experimental results and predict new outcomes. This work is essential for advancing our knowledge of the universe's basic building blocks and may eventually lead to new technologies or discoveries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a theoretical particle physics researcher?

To thrive in theoretical particle physics research, you need a solid background in advanced mathematics, quantum mechanics, and quantum field theory, typically supported by a PhD in physics or a related field. Familiarity with computational tools such as Mathematica, MATLAB, or Python, as well as experience with scientific literature databases, is essential. Critical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective collaboration and communication skills help researchers generate new ideas and share findings within the scientific community. These skills are vital for driving innovation, contributing to fundamental discoveries, and advancing the field through rigorous analysis and teamwork.

What are some common challenges faced when collaborating with experimental physicists in theoretical particle physics research?

Collaborating with experimental physicists is a key aspect of theoretical particle physics research, but it can present challenges due to differences in focus and language. Theorists often need to translate complex mathematical models into testable predictions, which requires clear communication and an understanding of experimental limitations. Bridging the gap between abstract theory and practical experimentation can be demanding, but successful collaboration often leads to groundbreaking discoveries and a deeper understanding of fundamental physics.

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

AspectTheoretical Particle Physics ResearchExperimental Particle Physics Research
Required credentialsPhD in Physics or related field, strong mathematical backgroundPhD in Physics or related field, practical laboratory skills
Work environmentTheoretical labs, universities, research institutesLaboratories, research facilities, large particle accelerators
Employer and industry usageAcademic institutions, government research agenciesLarge research labs, CERN, national laboratories
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding theoretical models, simulationsConducting experiments, data collection

While both roles require advanced physics degrees, Theoretical Particle Physics Research focuses on developing models and simulations, often in academic settings. Experimental Particle Physics Research involves hands-on experimentation and data analysis in large-scale labs. Both are essential to advancing our understanding of particle physics but differ in their methods and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Theoretical Particle Physics Research jobs?

For Theoretical Particle Physics Research jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Theoretical Particle Physics Research job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

T-2/ Nuclear and Particle Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology (R&D Manager 4)

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

Los Alamos National Laboratory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 5 - 10K employees

$170K - $295K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

What You Will Do
The Nuclear and Particle Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology (NPAC) Group in Theoretical Division provides leadership on theoretical and applied nuclear physics, particle physics, plasma astrophysics and planetary formation, and their intersections. The group has a budget of approximately $25M and includes ~20 staff scientists and ~15 postdoctoral fellows, and provides laboratory, national and international leadership in NPAC science.
The group leader will develop and maintain a strong and diverse scientific effort in NPAC theory, including recruiting outstanding scientists to LANL and developing opportunities to support this science. T-2 has a strong tradition of recruiting and developing early career scientists into technical and scientific leadership roles. The group is funded in large part by support from DOE applied programs, Office of Science, NASA and laboratory LDRD.
The group maintains very strong ties with LANL, national, and international efforts in experimental NPAC science, including both basic science (medium energy and heavy-ion research; neutrino physics including accelerator experiments and neutrinoless double beta decay; fundamental physics with neutrons pursued at LANL and at ORNL) and nuclear data and applied nuclear science (including fission and other experiments at LANSCE and experiments at NIF).
T-2 also has very strong efforts in computational science, including research in lattice QCD, nuclear structure and reactions, and astrophysics including space physics and planet formation. Recently T-2 has successfully pursued new opportunities in quantum computing funded in part by DARPA and Office of Science. These efforts and others are closely related to broader efforts in Theoretical Division as a whole.
The group leader's responsibilities include management of the group, working with the division management, promoting and maintaining fruitful scientific interactions with organizations at LANL working on NPAC, working with staff scientists to recruit and develop outstanding new scientific talent, to help develop new opportunities to support this research, and to develop the careers of graduate students, postdocs, and staff. The group leader must also conduct an active and vibrant research program at approximately 50% time effort.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Demonstrated expertise and record of accomplishment in one or more of the research areas described above; the ability to contribute technically to one or more group projects, and the ability to develop programs in associated technical areas.
  • Effective and successful leadership experience, preferably in a scientific or technical team, group, or project setting.
  • Experience recruiting, mentoring, supervising, and facilitating the technical work of scientific researchers at all levels.
  • Effective communication skills, which includes, for example, an ability to engage in technical conversations across disciplines, an ability to discuss program strategies with current and potential sponsors, an ability to delegate tasks to staff and administrators, and an ability to interact with all levels of Laboratory management.

Education/Experience: Position requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and 8 years related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Research experience in theoretical or computational nuclear, particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology, or closely related fields is strongly preferred.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience building collaborative relationships across group, division, laboratory, and national boundaries.
  • Experience proposing, developing, and sustaining research programs.
  • Demonstrated record of recruitment and mentoring of excellent scientists.
  • Active Q Clearance

Note to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must submit a comprehensive cover letter that addresses the key requirements of the position.
Work Schedule: This position may require 24/7 coverage, which could involve working a shift/weekend schedule. Employees maybe eligible for shift differential pay when assigned by their manager. Shift/weekend assignments are at the discretion of the manager.
Work Environment:
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Incentive Compensation Program: Position is eligible to participate in the Triad Incentive Compensation Program. You must be in an eligible position for a minimum of 3 months, before July 1st and remain in an eligible position as of the end of the fiscal year, September 30th. The annual distribution is prorated based on the number of months in the eligible position.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.

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