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Phd Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Mercer University

PhD Students -- Invite only Scheduled Hours: 20 Start Date: 08/17/2026 End Date: 05/31/2031

Mercer University

PhD Students -- Invite only Scheduled Hours: 20 Start Date: 08/18/2025 End Date: 05/31/2029

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How much do phd jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd in Tennessee is $26.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $29.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD?

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is the highest academic degree awarded by universities in most fields of study. Earning a PhD typically involves several years of advanced coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research culminating in a dissertation or thesis. PhD graduates are recognized as experts in their chosen fields and often pursue careers in academia, research, or specialized industry roles.

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

To thrive as a Ph.D. holder, you need advanced research abilities, critical thinking, subject matter expertise, and typically a doctoral degree in your field. Proficiency in data analysis tools (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), academic writing software, and sometimes specialized laboratory or computational systems is common. Strong communication, perseverance, and independent problem-solving skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for producing original research, publishing findings, and contributing meaningful advancements to your discipline.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD candidates during their research, and how can they overcome them?

PhD candidates often encounter challenges such as managing long-term research projects, handling unexpected results, and balancing academic responsibilities with personal life. Many also face periods of self-doubt or 'impostor syndrome,' especially when progress seems slow. Overcoming these challenges usually involves setting clear, achievable milestones, seeking regular feedback from advisors and peers, and building a supportive network within their academic community. Proactively communicating with supervisors and engaging in departmental activities can also help alleviate isolation and keep motivation high.

What is the difference between Phd vs Data Scientist?

AspectPhdData Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in a specialized fieldBachelor's or Master's degree, often with technical skills
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research labs, or industry R&DCorporate, tech companies, or consulting firms
Industry UsageResearch institutions, academia, R&D departmentsBusiness analytics, machine learning, data analysis
Common Search/ComparisonPhd vs Data Scientist

While a Phd focuses on advanced research and academic expertise, a Data Scientist applies analytical and technical skills to solve business problems. Both roles require strong analytical skills, but their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

Is a PhD worth it anymore?

A PhD can lead to specialized roles in academia, research, or industry, often requiring advanced skills and knowledge. While it can increase job prospects and earning potential, the value depends on the field, career goals, and job market demand for highly educated professionals.

What can you work as with a PhD?

A PhD qualifies individuals for advanced research, academic, and specialized roles across various fields such as science, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. Graduates often work as university professors, researchers, data scientists, policy analysts, or in leadership positions that require expert knowledge and analytical skills.

What jobs can a PhD get you?

A PhD can qualify individuals for advanced research, academic positions such as university professors, and specialized roles in industry like data scientist, research scientist, or policy analyst. These roles often require strong analytical, research, and communication skills, and may involve working with complex data, experiments, or theoretical models.

What jobs do PhD holders get?

PhD holders can pursue careers in academia as university professors or researchers, as well as in industry roles such as data scientists, research scientists, or policy analysts. They often work in environments requiring advanced research skills, critical thinking, and specialized knowledge, and may also hold positions in government, consulting, or technical development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Phd jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Phd jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Phd jobs in Tennessee?

For Phd jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Phd jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Phd job openings:

Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,587 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Research PhD

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Vanderbilt University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
Research PhD Position
Department of Plastic Surgery
Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC)
Nashville, Tennessee
The Department of Plastic Surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) is seeking a highly motivated Research PhD to join a collaborative and innovative research program focused on advancing discovery and impact in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Position Overview
This is a full-time research-focused PhD-level position supporting independent and team-based investigations within the Department of Plastic Surgery. The Research PhD will work closely with surgeon-scientists, graduate students, fellows, and multidisciplinary collaborators across VUMC and Vanderbilt University. Our lab is primarily focused on bone biology and pathophysiology, tissue engineering, and both fat and bone cell-based tissue scaffolds for use as patient-specific autografts. The role is ideal for candidates interested in building a sustained academic research career in a high-impact clinical and translational environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and contribute to independent and collaborative research projects
  • Design, oversee, and execute basic science studies
  • Prepare manuscripts, abstracts, and grant-related materials
  • Present research findings at national and international scientific meetings
  • Support departmental research initiatives and mentor junior researchers
  • Contribute to the strategic growth of the department's research mission

What VUMC Offers
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
  • Access to world-class research infrastructure and core facilities
  • Collaboration with nationally recognized faculty and clinical experts
  • A collegial, inclusive, and mission-driven academic environment
  • Opportunities for professional growth and leadership in research

Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
  • Expertise in cell culture and tissue engineering preferred
  • Prior experience working in a clinical or academic medical center
  • Grant writing experience or interest in pursuing extramural funding
  • Proficiency and familiarity in basic bench techniques (e.g. histology, IHC/IF, flow cytometry, cell culture, etc.)
  • Familiarity with animal/mouse work

Application Instructions
Application Instructions
Interested candidates should submit:
  1. Curriculum vitae (CV)
  2. Statement outlining research experience, interests, and career goals
  3. Contact information for 2-3 professional references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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