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Molecular Biologist Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PhD +2 years, MS +5 years, or BS +10 in genetics or molecular biology. * Five or more years of experience in a laboratory-based facility and a proven ability to plan and conduct research studies.

Bench Scientist Biologist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$50.58 - $70.03/hr

... or PhD in related discipline * Bench scientist biologist experience 2-5 years is ideal Technical Skills * Proficient in core laboratory techniques including: * Cell biology methods * Molecular ...

Bachelor's degree and 8 years of experience, or equivalent experience (Master's degree and 6 years, PhD and 3 years, or HS Diploma and 12 years). * Extensive experience with molecular biology QC ...

Lead Biologist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

PhD and 3 years or equivalent experience (Master's and 6 years, Bachelor's and 8 years, or HS Diploma and 12 years). * Extensive experience with molecular biology QC testing required. * Demonstrated ...

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Molecular Biologist Phd information

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$46K

$81.7K

$131.5K

How much do molecular biologist phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for molecular biologist phd in the United States is $81,704.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $92,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by molecular biologists with a PhD when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Molecular Biologists with a PhD often find that industry roles prioritize project timelines, cross-functional teamwork, and deliverable-driven outcomes more than academic research does. Adjusting to faster-paced environments and learning how to communicate scientific findings to non-specialist stakeholders can be challenging. Additionally, industry roles may require developing new skills such as regulatory compliance, intellectual property management, and adapting to shifting project priorities. Embracing collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and aligning research goals with business objectives are key to a smooth transition.

What is the difference between Molecular Biologist Phd vs Microbiologist?

AspectMolecular Biologist PhdMicrobiologist
Required credentialsPhd in Molecular Biology or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology or related field; Phd optional
Work environmentResearch labs, biotech companies, academiaHealthcare, environmental, food industry, research labs
Employer and industry usageBiotech firms, universities, government agenciesHospitals, public health, environmental agencies

Both Molecular Biologists Phd and Microbiologists work in research and laboratory settings, often overlapping in industry and employer types. However, Molecular Biologists typically hold a Phd and focus on genetic and molecular mechanisms, while Microbiologists may have a Bachelor's or Master's and study microorganisms' biology and impact. The choice depends on your specific interest in molecular techniques versus microbiological applications.

Is there a demand for molecular biologists?

Molecular biologists are in high demand across sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology due to ongoing research and development efforts. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as advancements in genomics, personalized medicine, and molecular diagnostics continue to expand the field.

What can I do with a PhD in molecular biology?

A PhD in molecular biology prepares individuals for research roles in academia, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare industries. Graduates often work as research scientists, lab managers, or in data analysis, utilizing skills in experimental design, molecular techniques, and data interpretation. Opportunities also include teaching, science communication, and regulatory or patent work.

Is a PhD in molecular biology worth it?

A PhD in molecular biology prepares individuals for research, academia, and specialized industry roles, often requiring strong laboratory skills and knowledge of techniques like PCR and sequencing. While it can lead to higher-level positions and increased earning potential, it also involves significant time and financial investment with competitive job markets. The value depends on career goals and the ability to leverage advanced expertise in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a molecular biologist PhD?

To thrive as a Molecular Biologist PhD, you need advanced expertise in molecular biology techniques, data analysis, and a relevant doctoral degree. Familiarity with laboratory technologies such as PCR, next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics tools, and compliance with safety and ethical standards is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills for excelling in this research-intensive field. These skills ensure rigorous experimental design, accurate data interpretation, and meaningful scientific contributions.

What does a molecular biologist PhD do?

A Molecular Biologist with a PhD conducts advanced research to understand the structure, function, and interactions of biological molecules like DNA, RNA, and proteins. They design and perform experiments, analyze data, and publish their findings in scientific journals. These professionals often work in academic, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology settings, contributing to discoveries in genetics, medicine, and disease treatment. Their expertise is essential for developing new diagnostics, therapies, and understanding fundamental biological processes.
More about Molecular Biologist Phd jobs
What cities are hiring for Molecular Biologist Phd jobs? Cities with the most Molecular Biologist Phd job openings:
What states have the most Molecular Biologist Phd jobs? States with the most job openings for Molecular Biologist Phd jobs include:
Infographic showing various Molecular Biologist Phd job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,704 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Molecular Biologist III

Battelle Memorial Institute

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Battelle Memorial Institute rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Battelle delivers when others can't. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients-whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Summary
As a Molecular Biologist III, you will be joining a dynamic team performing cutting-edge research across multiple biological disciplines. Operating in a collaborative environment, you will provide invaluable support to a large government contract. You will drive capture activities through ideation and proposal development. You will be responsible for developing technical work plans and leading small teams to accomplish tasks rooted in Genetics and/or Molecular Biology, conducting research and testing on basic and applied principles of microbial, human, and animal life, including anatomy and function of biological systems in both simple and complex settings. Biological data related to structure, function, behavior, and tailored applications will be used to perform technical evaluations and/or assessments of biologics, biological mechanisms, or biological properties.
This position offers an exhilarating opportunity to collaborate with a dynamic, multidisciplinary team committed to advancing scientific knowledge and solving our customer's toughest challenges.
This full-time position is contingent upon contract award and will be located in San Antonio, TX.
Responsibilities
  • Leverage skills and education to identify, propose, and secure new projects to promote on contract growth.
  • Apply experience in genetics, molecular biology, or cell biology to novel challenges.
  • Design and lead laboratory efforts with small teams of laboratory staff working in a biological safety level (BSL)-2 environment.
  • Work directly with project managers and customers to determine and refine study objectives and deliverables, including technical reports, manuscripts, and presentations.
  • Perform advanced biological experiments, research and analysis.
  • Solve complex problems, using existing solutions to derive new solutions and perspectives.
  • Review, assimilate, collate, and translate data into key study findings. Identify gaps in current knowledge and leverage collective expertise and experience to drive the state of the art forward.
  • Maintain laboratory and laboratory records in accordance with governing quality standards and safety/security requirements.
  • Troubleshoot experiments using experience and scientific literature.
  • Mentor lab personnel in key skill areas including: nucleic extraction, purification, and quantification methods; commercial and ad-hoc extraction/purification kits, spectrophotometry, gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid analysis methods; non-radioactive Southern and Northern blotting, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR); recombinant DNA methods; epigenetic regulation methods; DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin compaction, and nuclear organization; sequencing; microarray platforms for whole genome and exome sequencing.
  • Build relationships with internal stakeholders and external clients through strong performance, timely delivery, and frequent communication.
  • Participate in scientific conferences, peer review panels, and publications.

Some domestic travel is anticipated.
Key Qualifications
  • PhD +2 years, MS +5 years, or BS +10 in genetics or molecular biology.
  • Five or more years of experience in a laboratory-based facility and a proven ability to plan and conduct research studies.
  • Proven ability to conduct experiments according to standard operating procedures.
  • Practical experience with nucleic acid extraction, purification, quantification, and analytical methods such as spectrophotometry, gel electrophoresis, southern and northern blots, PCR, biological engineering (e.g., golden gate cloning, Gibson assembly, and/or CRISPR-Cas9), and epigenetic regulation methods (e.g., DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin compaction and nuclear organization), sequencing, microarrays, etc.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Proven ability to propose and secure research funding.
  • Ability to succinctly assimilate and communicate complex scientific data for customer and end user needs.
  • Ability to work in a team environment, mentor and train other staff members, and openly collaborate with colleagues across multiple disciplines.
  • Sole U.S. citizenship, with the ability to obtain and maintain required government security clearances as a condition of employment.
  • Ability and willingness to work in BSL-2 laboratories.
  • Sufficiently medically fit to work in the laboratory to perform assigned duties including the ability to wear personal protection equipment (PPE), lift up to 50 pounds, and work in the proximity of hazardous/infectious materials.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Currently possesses or has held (and can reinstate) government security clearance.
  • Experience working within laboratory quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO17025, GLP).

Benefits: Live an Extraordinary Life
We care about your well-being, not just on the job. Battelle offers comprehensive and competitive benefits to help you live your best life.
  • Balance life through a compressed work schedule: Most of our team follows a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows for every other Friday off-giving you a dedicated day to accomplish things in your personal life without using vacation time.
  • Enjoy enhanced work flexibility, including a hybrid arrangement: You have options for where and when you work. Our Together with Flexibility model allows you to work 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days, dependent on team and position needs .
  • Take time to recharge: You get paid time off to support work-life balance and keep motivated.
  • Prioritize wellness: Stay healthy with medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives and benefits plus a variety of optional supplemental benefits.
  • Better together: Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support.
  • Build your financial future: Build financial stability with an industry-leading 401(k) retirement savings plan. For most employees, we put in 5 percent whether you contribute or not, and match your contributions on top of that.
  • Advance your education: Tuition assistance is available to pursue higher education.

A Work Environment Where You Succeed
For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity's most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier and more secure world.
You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to:
  • Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects
  • Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery
  • Partner with world-class experts in a collaborative environment
  • Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders
  • Give back to and improve our communities

Vaccinations & Safety Protocols
Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients' requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment and to provide documentation that they are fully vaccinated. If applicable, Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (and related state laws).
Battelle is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran-status veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.
The above statements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, activities and skills required of staff members. No statement herein is intended to imply any authorities to commit Battelle unless special written permission is granted by Battelle's Legal Department.
For more information about our other openings, please visit www.battelle.org/careers

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