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Material Science Postdoc Jobs in Cary, NC (NOW HIRING)

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of ... materials, reagents, software, copyrightable and potentially patentable discoveries derived from ...

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Material Science Postdoc information

See Cary, NC salary details

$32.9K

$66.2K

$86.6K

How much do material science postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for material science postdoc in Cary, NC is $66,211.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a material science postdoc?

A Material Science Postdoc is a temporary research position for Ph.D. graduates specializing in materials science and engineering. Postdocs work on advanced research projects, often in academic, government, or industrial labs, to develop new materials, improve existing ones, or study their properties. They collaborate with senior scientists, publish findings, and may mentor students. The role helps build expertise and prepares researchers for careers in academia, industry, or government research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a material science postdoc?

To thrive as a Material Science Postdoc, you need a Ph.D. in materials science, chemistry, physics, or a related field, with deep expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and materials characterization. Familiarity with advanced characterization tools (such as SEM, TEM, XRD) and data analysis software, along with strong scientific writing and publication experience, is often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, strong communication skills, and the capacity to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams are valuable soft skills. These qualifications ensure the ability to conduct rigorous research, contribute to publications, and work effectively in a fast-paced academic or industrial research environment.

What types of research projects can a material science postdoc expect to work on, and how much independence is typically given?

As a Material Science Postdoc, you may be involved in projects ranging from developing novel materials and investigating their structural properties to collaborating on interdisciplinary applications such as energy storage, biomaterials, or nanotechnology. Postdocs often work under the supervision of a principal investigator but may also lead sub-projects, train students, and contribute fresh ideas to ongoing research. The level of independence varies by institution and funding source, but you can generally expect to design experiments, analyze results, and share findings at lab meetings and conferences. This balance of guidance and autonomy is designed to help you grow your skills while making meaningful contributions to the group’s scientific goals.

What are popular job titles related to Material Science Postdoc jobs in Cary, NC?

For Material Science Postdoc jobs in Cary, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Material Science Postdoc jobs in Cary, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Science Postdoc jobs in Cary, NC are:

Infographic showing various Material Science Postdoc job openings in Cary, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,211 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Post-Doc Research Associate

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site


UNC-Chapel Hill
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

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Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

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Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Department Applied Physical Sciences - 318100 Posting Open Date 09/23/2022 Application Deadline Open Until Filled Yes Position Type Postdoctoral Scholar Position Title Post-Doc Research Associate Vacancy ID PDS003598 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work Location Chapel Hill, NC Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range $56,712 - $59,980 Proposed Start Date 01/02/2023 Estimated Duration of Appointment 36 Months
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel! Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
Launched in 2013, the Department of Applied Physical Sciences (APS) is the first new science department in the College of Arts and Sciences in nearly 40 years. Including the Chapel Hill Analytical and Nanofabrication Laboratory (CHANL) and the graduate program in material sciences, Applied Physical Sciences has united numerous scientific entities on campus to further its mission of finding interdisciplinary solutions to real-world problems. Its newest endeavor, BeAM (Be A Maker), is a university-wide initiative that incorporates Making into research, education, and entrepreneurship. BeAM is comprised of several spaces, including a makerspace in Hanes Art Center, Carmichael Residence Hall, and a 3,400 square foot Makerspace in Murray Hall, all of which serve the entire UNC community.
Position Summary
An established biomaterials laboratory at UNC - Chapel Hill at the Department of Applied Physical Sciences, seeks two post-doctoral Research Associates to participate in a rapidly developing research program studying lung muco-obstructive diseases and fibrosis therapeutic development, two areas of urgent clinical need. Multiple therapeutic modalities will be evaluated for target engagement, molecular mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy. The Research Associate should have an interest in and research experience cellular and molecular biology, lung disease and animal models. In addition to bench research, the post-doctoral fellow will be actively involved with data analysis, writing scientific papers and grant proposals and presenting data at scientific meetings. Experience in biophysics and material science is a plus!
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Applicants should possess a recent PhD in relevant biomedical sciences disciplines or bioengineering.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work well within a team environment as well as independently. Successful candidates will have very strong communication and analytical skills.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Hands-on experience with biophysical measurements, cell culture, and microscopy skills would be ideal.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements Special Instructions
For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/240826
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Ronit Fraiman; Associate Professor Department Contact Telephone or Email ronifree@email.unc.edu 919-843-9334 Postdoctoral Affairs Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Equal Employment Opportunity office at (919) 966-3576 or send an email to equalopportunity@unc.edu. 
Please note: The Equal Employment Opportunity office will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity, employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

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10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789


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