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Cognitive Science Phd Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Cognitive Science Phd information

See Kansas salary details

$21K

$51.2K

$68.2K

How much do cognitive science phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive science phd in Kansas is $51,204.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,800.00 and $55,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a PhD in cognitive science worth it?

A PhD in cognitive science can lead to careers in research, academia, and industry, often requiring strong analytical and programming skills. While it offers advanced knowledge and specialization, it typically involves several years of study and may result in competitive job markets, so its value depends on individual career goals and the field's demand.

What is the difference between Cognitive Science Phd vs Data Scientist?

AspectCognitive Science PhdData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Cognitive Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Computer Science, or related field; some roles prefer PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, industry R&DTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting
Industry UsageResearch, academia, AI development, cognitive modelingData analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning applications

While both roles involve analytical skills and data handling, a Cognitive Science Phd focuses on understanding human cognition, often in research or AI development, whereas a Data Scientist applies statistical and machine learning techniques to solve business problems across various industries.

What kind of jobs can I get with a cognitive science degree?

A cognitive science PhD prepares individuals for research, academia, and roles in human-computer interaction, user experience design, artificial intelligence, and data analysis. These positions often require strong analytical, programming, and experimental skills, and may involve working in tech companies, research institutions, or healthcare settings.

What is the highest paying job for a neuroscience PhD?

The highest paying jobs for neuroscience PhDs are often in industry roles such as pharmaceutical or biotech research directors, medical science liaisons, or executive positions in biotech companies, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced research skills, knowledge of drug development, and strong communication abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cognitive Science PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cognitive Science PhD, you need a strong interdisciplinary background in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy, typically supported by advanced research experience and a doctoral degree. Proficiency with data analysis tools (such as Python, MATLAB, or R), neuroimaging software, and statistical modeling is commonly required. Exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help you collaborate across disciplines and convey complex ideas clearly. These skills are vital for driving innovative research, publishing impactful work, and contributing to advancements in understanding human cognition.

Does cognitive science pay well?

Cognitive science PhDs can earn competitive salaries, especially when working in research, industry, or applied settings such as technology or healthcare. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the specific role, with advanced positions often offering higher compensation. Skills in data analysis, programming, and experimental design can also influence earning potential.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for Cognitive Science PhD students, and how do they impact research projects?

Cognitive Science PhD students frequently collaborate with researchers in fields such as psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy. These interdisciplinary teams enhance research by providing access to diverse methodologies, data sources, and theoretical perspectives. Collaborating across disciplines can lead to innovative approaches and more comprehensive findings, though it also requires strong communication and adaptability to integrate different research traditions. Such experiences are highly valued in both academia and industry, as they build versatile problem-solving skills and foster a collaborative mindset.

What is a Cognitive Science PhD?

A Cognitive Science PhD is a doctoral degree focused on the interdisciplinary study of the mind and intelligence. This field combines elements from psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, computer science, philosophy, and anthropology to understand how humans and other intelligent systems perceive, think, learn, and behave. Students in a Cognitive Science PhD program typically conduct original research, develop expertise across multiple disciplines, and prepare for careers in academia, industry, or government. The degree usually takes between 4 to 6 years to complete and culminates in a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.
What are popular job titles related to Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Kansas? For Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cognitive Science Phd job openings in Kansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,204 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Psych Postdoctoral Fellow - Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences (Neurorehabilitation)

KUMC University of Kansas Medical Center

Kansas City, KS โ€ข On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Department:SOM KC Psychiatry & Behavior Sciences

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Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences - FellowsPosition Title:Psych Postdoctoral Fellow - Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences (Neurorehabilitation)Job Family Group: Professional StaffJob Description Summary:Postdoctoral scholars at the University of Kansas Medical Center are individuals who have received their terminal degree and who have opted to pursue further training in a postdoctoral appointment. Postdoctoral scholarship is a time-limited appointment, the primary purpose of which is to provide scholarly training for an academic career. A postdoctoral scholar at KUMC is expected to: Participate in a full-time regimen of advanced training, have a PhD or equivalent terminal degree ( PsyD).Job Description:

Job Duties

  • Perform psychological assessments and interventions within rehabilitation, burn, and medical/surgical trauma settings.
  • Conduct assessments of cognitive, emotional, behavioral functioning, and pain management in patients with acute and chronic medical conditions.
  • Provide individual, family, and group interventions, as well as patient and family education to support adjustment and recovery.
  • Participate in multidisciplinary treatment team meetings to support coordinated patient care and rehabilitation planning.
  • Provide psychological first-aid and consultation support to medical staff members working in high-acuity clinical environments.
  • Provide clinical services for patients with complex medical and neurological conditions, including traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, brain neoplasm and cancer, burn injury, polytrauma, encephalopathy, and neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and myasthenia gravis.
  • Support care for patients with orthopedic injuries, pre- and post-transplant (solid organ and bone marrow), post-COVID conditions, and co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
  • Supervise and train psychology interns and graduate students in clinical service delivery within rehabilitation settings.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. It is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, duties, and assignments. Furthermore, job duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Required Qualifications

Education: PhD or PsyD in Clinical or Counseling Psychology, or completion of all degree requirements, including a one-year full-time internship from an APA-accredited program. All degree requirements, including successful dissertation defense, must be completed prior to the start of the fellowship.

  • This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have advanced knowledge, analytical skills and professional competencies necessary to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is commonly recognized as the standard qualification for similar roles in the public and private sector, ensuring that the university remains competitive with industry aligned practices, enhances collaboration with external partners, and supports the delivery of services and programs that meet professional and market-driven expectations.

Work Experience:

  • Training in an APA accredited or approved PhD or PsyD program in Clinical or Counseling Psychology.
  • Relevant practitioner-scholar training experience in Neurorehabilitation Psychology; Child and Adolescent Psychology; Clinical Health Psychology; and/or Advanced Clinical Psychology.

Required Documents

  • Resume/CV
  • Cover Letter

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

Coverage begins on day one for health, dental, and vision insurance and includes health expense accounts with generous employer contributions if the employee participates in a qualifying health plan. Employer-paid life insurance, long-term disability insurance, and various additional voluntary insurance plans are available. Paid time off, including vacation and sick, begins accruing upon hire, plus ten paid holidays. One paid discretionary day is available after six months of employment, and paid time off for bereavement, jury duty, military service, and parental leave is available after 12 months of employment. A retirement program with a generous employer contribution and additional voluntary retirement programs (457 or 403b) are available. https://www.kumc.edu/human-resources/benefits.html

Employee Type: Fixed Term (Fixed Term)Time Type: Full timeRate Type: Salary

Compensation Statement:

The pay range listed for this position is determined by our compensation program using market data and salary benchmarking. A combination of factors is considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, education, experience and training, qualifications relative to the requirements of the position, and funding. At the University of Kansas Medical Center, a reasonable estimate for the starting pay range will be the minimum to midpoint of the posted range, taking into account the combination of factors listed above.

Pay Range:$58,656.00 - $79,772.00

Minimum

$58,656.00

Midpoint

$69,000.00

Maximum

$79,772.00