1

Theoretical Particle Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... theoretical groups in particle astrophysics, gravitation, and cosmology. Education and Experience Applications will be considered from Ph.D. physicists and astronomers with strong backgrounds in ...

... realm of particle physics) to the very large (the realm of astronomy, while expanding the ... Theoretical Gravitational Physics. The position is open to candidates at a level from Assistant ...

... as well as leading theoretical groups in particle astrophysics, gravitation, and cosmology ... ray physics, and related fields. Additional Information Applications must be submitted ...

Showing results 41-60

Theoretical Particle Physics information

See salary details

$10

$33

$108

How much do theoretical particle physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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?

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.

Is a theoretical particle physicist a good career?

A theoretical particle physicist researches fundamental particles and forces, often working in academia or research institutions. The career requires advanced degrees, strong analytical skills, and a passion for scientific discovery, with job prospects typically tied to research funding and academic positions. It can be intellectually rewarding but may involve competitive job markets and limited positions outside academia.

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.

What does a theoretical particle physicist do?

A theoretical particle physicist develops mathematical models and theories to understand the fundamental particles and forces of nature. They analyze data, perform simulations, and work on hypotheses related to particle interactions, often using advanced computational tools and collaborating with experimental physicists. Their work helps explain phenomena such as the behavior of subatomic particles and the origins of the universe.

What jobs can you do with a theoretical particle physics degree?

A theoretical particle physics degree prepares individuals for roles such as research scientist, data analyst, or computational physicist in academia, government labs, or private industry. Skills in advanced mathematics, programming, and data modeling are highly valued in these positions, which often involve complex problem-solving and simulation work.

What jobs can you get with a theoretical particle physics degree?

A theoretical particle physics degree prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, and industry roles such as research scientist, data analyst, or science consultant. Graduates often work in universities, government labs, or private sector companies, utilizing skills in mathematical modeling, programming, and data analysis. Additional qualifications like programming languages and research experience can enhance job prospects.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,713 per year, or $33 per hour.

Postdoctoral Associate - Neutrino Physics

University of Colorado

Boulder, CO • On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Summary
The Experimental High Energy Physics Group at the University of Colorado at Boulder invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate position to work in the neutrino physics group. The neutrino group at the University of Colorado is very active in the DUNE, NA61/SHINE, T2K, and Eos collaborations. The successful candidate will be expected to play a leading role in detector prototyping, commissioning, and data analysis for the DUNE Near Detectors and/or the NA61/SHINE experiment. This position will be based in Boulder, but the applicant must be able to travel to US laboratories and CERN periodically.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
College of Arts and Sciences - The College is the intellectual core of the university, conducting research, scholarship, creative work and education in more than 60 fields. Our research generates new knowledge, addressed toward solving some of the world's most critical problems. The college leads nationally in undergraduate and graduate education, bringing world-class research and scholarship to our students, both in and out of the classroom. The college is the academic home to all five of the university's Nobel laureates. Additionally, it is home to the university's four National Medal of Science winners, nine MacArthur "Genius Award" winners, 100 Fulbright Scholars, 17 Guggenheim Fellows, 14 Packard Fellows, 24 members of the National Academy of Sciences, and 25 members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. CU Boulder is the only university in the Rocky Mountain region in the American Association of Universities, a group of the nation's leading research institutions.
Department of Physics - The Department includes 54 tenured and tenure-track faculty performing cutting-edge research. Its graduate physics program draws ~1200 applications per year and is ranked by the National Research Council to be among the top 15 overall. The Department appears as high as 12th worldwide in international rankings of university Physics Departments. The department is strongly affiliated with centers and institutes such as JILA, a research institute administered jointly by NIST and the University of Colorado, and the Center for Theory of Quantum Matter, as well as with nearby National Laboratories (NIST and NREL), offering world-class facilities and broad opportunities for research collaboration.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
  • The candidate will be expected to lead efforts in physics analysis and detector commissioning in the DUNE near detector or NA61/SHINE experiment. Co-mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students in research will be expected.

What We Can Offer
  • Annual salary range of $62,000-$66,000
  • Moving reimbursement up to $2,500

Benefits
At the University of Colorado Boulder , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
Be Statements
Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.
What We Require
  • Applicants must have a Ph.D. in experimental particle or nuclear physics by the time of appointment.

What You Will Need
  • Proficiency in C++ and Python is highly desirable.

What We Would Like You to Have
  • Candidates should have strong particle physics data analysis skills and preferably have experience in detector hardware.

Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
  1. Resume or CV
  2. Cover letter
  3. Research Statement, detailing previous research accomplishments and research interests.

If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version as an optional attachment.
During the application process you will need to enter contact information for three references who may be contacted to provide a letters of recommendation and additional materials, if needed, as the search progresses.
Please apply by July 15 for full consideration. The position will remain posted until August 15, 2026.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

What University Of Colorado Boulder employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom