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Comparative Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

Wildwood, FL · On-site

$68K/yr

... certificate of comparative compliance from the CJSTC. Be able to effectively communicate ... psychological examination. Supplemental Information Excellent physical and mental condition ...

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Comparative Psychologist information

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$11K

$92.8K

$398.5K

How much do comparative psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for comparative psychologist in the United States is $92,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job in comparative psychology?

To work as a comparative psychologist, typically a doctoral degree in psychology, biology, or a related field is required, along with research experience in animal behavior and cognition. Gaining skills in experimental design, data analysis, and familiarity with laboratory or fieldwork environments is essential. Building a strong academic record, publishing research, and networking within the scientific community can improve job prospects.

What are some common work environments or settings for Comparative Psychologists?

Comparative Psychologists often work in academic or research institutions, such as universities, where they may teach, mentor students, and conduct experiments in laboratory settings. Others are employed by zoos, animal research facilities, or government agencies, focusing on animal behavior, welfare, or cognition. Collaboration with veterinarians, biologists, and other psychologists is typical, providing a dynamic and interdisciplinary work environment. Depending on the focus, the role may involve fieldwork, direct animal observation, data analysis, and presenting findings at conferences or in publications.

What does a comparative psychologist do?

A comparative psychologist studies the behavior, cognition, and evolution of different animal species to understand similarities and differences across species. They often conduct experiments in laboratory or natural settings, analyze behavioral data, and may work in research, academia, or conservation. Strong skills in observation, data analysis, and knowledge of animal behavior are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Comparative Psychologist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Comparative Psychologist, you need strong research and analytical skills, a background in biology or psychology, and typically a graduate degree (PhD or Master's) in psychology or a related field. Experience with statistical software, behavioral assessment tools, and scientific writing are common technical requirements. Excellent observational skills, curiosity, and clear communication enhance one’s ability to collaborate and convey complex findings. These skills are essential for designing rigorous studies, interpreting animal behavior, and advancing scientific understanding in comparative psychology.

How much do comparative psychologists make?

Comparative psychologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced degrees and research experience can lead to higher salaries, especially in academic or research institutions.

What is a Comparative Psychologist job?

A Comparative Psychologist studies the behavior and cognitive processes of different animal species, including humans, to understand evolution, learning, and adaptation. They conduct experiments, observe behavior, and analyze data to identify similarities and differences across species. Their work helps in areas such as animal welfare, conservation, and neuroscience. Comparative Psychologists may work in research institutions, universities, zoos, or government agencies.

What careers use comparative psychology?

Comparative psychologists often work in academic research, studying animal behavior and cognition, or in applied settings such as wildlife conservation, animal training, and behavioral therapy. They may also work in zoos, laboratories, or environmental organizations, utilizing skills in observation, data analysis, and experimental design.
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What cities are hiring for Comparative Psychologist jobs? Cities with the most Comparative Psychologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Comparative Psychologist jobs? The most popular types of Comparative Psychologist jobs are:
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Infographic showing various Comparative Psychologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,813 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Comparative Cognition

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Comparative Cognition

Villanova University

Villanova, PA • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Villanova University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

307th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Do you have questions about the application process? If so, please refer to the Applicant FAQ's.
Posting Details (Default Section)
Posting Number:
20260008F
Position Title:
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Comparative Cognition
Position Type:
Faculty
Location:
Villanova, PA
Recruitment Type:
Internal/External Applicants
Work Schedule:
full-time/12-months
Department:
143-Psychological and Brain Sciences
Position Summary:
Villanova University invites applications for a Mendel Science Experience Postdoctoral Fellowship within the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, in the area of comparative cognition/animal behavior. The position has a starting date of August 2026. Review of applications will begin at the begin March 16, 2026, and the search will remain open until the position is filled.
The Fellow position is 50:50 research and teaching and is designed to foster the professional development of recent Ph.D. recipients on a career path leading to faculty positions. The Fellow will conduct research in collaboration with a faculty mentor, work with graduate students, supervise undergraduate research assistants, and gain formal teaching experience. The appointment is for two years, with a third year possible by mutual agreement between the fellow and faculty mentor
Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fellow will conduct research in collaboration with the faculty mentor (Dr. Suzanne Gray) and will work with graduate students and supervise undergraduate students in the lab. The Fellow will also have opportunities to participate in ongoing interdisciplinary collaborative projects across a range of topics. The Fellow will also be provided with a research budget ($4,000/year) to supplement resources available in the lab and the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences.
The Mendel Science Fellows program is designed to advance the professional development of recent Ph.D. recipients on a trajectory leading to faculty positions and to enhance the College's teaching of science to non-science majors through the Mendel Science Experience program. The Fellow will teach a laboratory science course for non-science-majors on "Animal Minds" and develop undergraduate courses in psychological science and/or animal cognition and behavior.
Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Psychology, Anthropology, Ethology, Zoology, or a related field is required. Applicants who are ABD are welcome to apply but must complete the Ph.D. prior to August 2026.
Preferred Qualifications:
Applicants with expertise in non-human animal cognition and behavior (especially with avian models) will be particularly well suited for this position. We are especially interested in candidates with experience in examining cognition and behavior in the field or zoological settings. Previous teaching experience preferred.
Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
Special Message to Applicants:
Materials required:
1. Cover letter that includes a statement of career goals
2. Curriculum vitae
3. A research statement that summarizes the applicant's current work, future plans, and potential for collaboration with faculty mentor
4. A teaching statement that summarizes the applicant's teaching and mentoring experience and general approach to teaching
5. Two sample publications
6. Two letters of recommendation
Posting Date:
01/30/2026
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
Salary Posting Information:
$62,500 for 12-months
Salary Band:
Job Classification:
faculty

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About Villanova University

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Villanova University, located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States, operates within the higher education industry. Its establishment traces back to 1842 by the Augustinians, a Catholic religious order. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including Liberal Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Business, and Law, serving over 10,000 undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Guided by its Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition, it is committed to community service, and it seeks to cultivate knowledgeable, thoughtful, and ethical leaders. The university’s mission is to empower students to ignite change, with a vision for a just and peaceful world.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

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1,001 - 5,000 Employees

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Villanova, PA, US

Year founded

1842

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