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Exercise Science Postdoc Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Science Postdoc information

What is an exercise science postdoc?

Exercise Science Postdocs are individuals who have completed a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in exercise science or a related field and are engaged in advanced research training, usually at a university or research institution. Their work often focuses on studying the physiological, biomechanical, and behavioral aspects of physical activity, exercise, and health. Postdoctoral positions are designed to help early-career scientists build research skills, publish scholarly work, and prepare for independent careers in academia, industry, or clinical settings. These positions typically last from one to three years and may involve teaching, mentoring, and grant writing in addition to research.

What types of research collaboration opportunities are typically available for exercise science postdocs?

Exercise Science Postdocs often have the chance to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including physiologists, clinicians, nutritionists, and biomechanists. These collaborations may involve joint research projects, grant writing, or co-authoring publications, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities. Engaging with other departments or external institutions can also broaden your research scope and help you develop new technical skills. Such collaboration is not only encouraged but is often essential for career advancement in academia and industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise science postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Postdoc, you need a Ph.D. in exercise science or a related field, strong research skills, and a solid understanding of human physiology and movement. Experience with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and peer-reviewed publishing is typically required. Critical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for advancing research, publishing impactful studies, and contributing meaningfully to academic and scientific communities.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Postdoc vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise Science PostdocExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), research experienceBachelor's or Master's degree, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academic settingsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, rehabilitation facilities
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutions, academiaHealthcare, sports, wellness industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Exercise Science Postdoc primarily focuses on research and academic pursuits, often working in universities or research institutions. In contrast, an Exercise Physiologist applies practical skills in clinical or fitness settings to improve patient or client health. While both roles involve exercise and health, the Postdoc emphasizes research credentials, whereas the Exercise Physiologist centers on certification and direct client care.

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Postdoc jobs in California?

For Exercise Science Postdoc jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Postdoc jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Postdoc jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Exercise Science Postdoc jobs?

Cities in California with the most Exercise Science Postdoc job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Science Postdoc job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution.

Assistant Professor of Sports Medicine - Biomechanics/Functional Anatomy (AY27-28)

Malibu, CA • On-site


Pepperdine University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

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34th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

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$91K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description
The Natural Science Division of the Seaver College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences at Pepperdine University invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Biomechanics/Functional Anatomy to begin August 1, 2027. Applicants who have completed a Ph.D. by August 1, 2027, in biomechanics, human anatomy, kinesiology (with emphasis on movement analysis), or closely related fields will be considered, while candidates with post-doctoral experience are preferred. Well-qualified candidates will be able to contribute to the excellence and vibrancy of the Pepperdine experience through their teaching, research, mentoring of undergraduates, as well as their service to the university, their profession, and our surrounding community. If you are seeking a tenure-line faculty appointment as a scholar/educator at a premier Christian university committed to the highest standards of the liberal arts and kinesiology, then we encourage you to apply.
Seaver College places the total development of students at the heart of its educational strategy and seeks scholar-educators who demonstrate exceptional interest and effectiveness in teaching, a commitment to establishing a productive research program, and a desire to mentor undergraduate students in both teaching and research. Successful candidates will actively contribute to a rigorous curriculum in the exercise sciences, with demonstrated doctoral/postdoctoral preparation for teaching undergraduate coursework in functional anatomy & kinesiology as well as at least one other area within exercise science/kinesiology, such as biostatistics, movement analysis, or gross anatomy. In addition to teaching expectations, candidates are expected to establish a productive research program that involves undergraduate students. Current research interests in the department include human performance in hypoxia, nutritional considerations for elite athletes, exercise during the perinatal period, and motor-control adapted populations. Well-equipped exercise science laboratories are available for teaching and research. Scholarly collaboration among Sports Medicine faculty as well as with faculty from other disciplines (e.g., biology, nutrition, chemistry, physics, etc.) is encouraged.
Pepperdine's undergraduate Seaver College is a residential liberal arts college of approximately 3,500 students situated in Malibu, California. Successful applicants must have an active commitment to the Christian mission of the University and reflect on their willingness to support the mission of Seaver College in their application materials.
Applicants should provide the following materials: 1) a cover letter, 2) a curriculum vitae, 3) a response to the University's Christian mission 4) a statement of teaching philosophy, 5) a scholarly agenda 6) transcripts of all graduate work (copies are acceptable during the application process; official transcripts will be required for selected applicants), and 7) names and contact information for three references (the same individuals who will provide a Confidential Letter of Recommendation or Evaluation if the candidate proceeds with interviews). All materials should be submitted to: https://apply.interfolio.com/191540 .
Pepperdine is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Qualified individuals should be able to show respect for workplace differences, and have the ability to work effectively with individuals from different backgrounds. Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal, education, and employment screening. The University conducts such screenings in compliance with applicable laws and with the objectives of evaluating risk and supporting a safe environment for students, faculty, staff, and guests; safeguarding key University assets including people, property, information, and the University's reputation; and providing comprehensive job-related information to University leaders to enable them to make prudent hiring decisions. Qualified individuals with criminal histories will be considered for employment in compliance with applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.
Review of applicants will begin on October 1, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Please address any inquiries regarding the position to the chair of the search committee:
Cooker Storm (cooker.storm@pepperdine.edu)
Natural Science Division
Seaver College, Pepperdine University
24255 Pacific Coast Highway
Malibu, CA 90263
The salary for this appointment will range from $91,527-$97,701 and reflects what Pepperdine University reasonably expects to pay for this faculty appointment. Actual salary may vary based on the qualifications and experience of the applicant, as well as market conditions. In addition to salary, Pepperdine offers a robust suite of employee benefits.
Application Instructions
Applicants should submit:
  • Letter of application
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Names and contact information for three references. These should be the same individuals who will provide a Confidential Letter of Recommendation or Evaluation if you proceed with the interview process.
  • Transcripts of all graduate work. (Unofficial copies are acceptable for the application; however, official transcripts may be required for selected applicants.)
  • Personal Statement. Reflect on Pepperdine's Christian mission and address your pattern of support for generally accepted Christian values and the University's mission, your active participation in a faith community, and your practice or vision for integrating faith and learning in the classroom
  • Teaching statement. Please reflect on your values, beliefs, and goals regarding the teaching and learning process and any pedagogical practices used or envisioned to achieve these goals. Two to three pages maximum length.
  • Research Statement. Outline your short and long-term objectives and goals for your research and/or creative activities. Please reflect on current projects including published or presented work(s) as a foundation for the statement. Two to three pages maximum length.


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