Job Description

The Department of Physics seeks applications from individuals who are interested in Postdoctoral positions within the department for 2026-2027.

The Department of Physics at Colorado State University has roughly 20 faculty members with research programs in atomic, molecular, and optical physics; condensed matter physics; and high-energy physics and particle astrophysics. Additional information about the Department of Physics can be found on the department website: http://www.physics.colostate.edu.

Please note the successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date. The department has limited funding and may not be able to sponsor a new H-1B visa for this position.

Proposed Annual Salary Range: 

$45,000-$80,000. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Essential Job Duties:

• Conduct independent and collaborative research aligned with the goals of the principal investigator and department.

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments or studies; interpret results and maintain accurate research records.

• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences and seminars.

• Contribute to the preparation of grant proposals, progress reports, and other funding-related materials.

• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in research techniques and scholarly development.

• Participate in departmental activities, research group meetings, and interdisciplinary collaborations

Specific job duties will be determined by the hiring manager.

Conditions of Employment:

Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)

Position Supervises:     

No direct supervision; assistance with mentoring research students.

Minimum Job Qualifications:

• PhD in Physics or closely related field.

Preferred Job Qualifications may vary by Hiring Manager, but may include:

• Prior research experience in a relevant discipline.

• Experience with laboratory, field, or computational research methods.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

• Experience with data analysis, scientific writing, or specialized research techniques relevant to the hiring lab.

Application Instructions:

Interested individuals should submit a current resume and a statement of research experience and interest. Please note that there will be one section to upload all required documents. This pool is valid through August 30, 2026, at which time all applicants wishing to be considered beyond this date must reapply.

Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.

• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.