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Post Doctoral Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

University of South Carolina

Post Doctoral

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$53K - $73K/yr

Posting Summary Logo Posting Number RTF00167PO26 USC Market Title Post Doctoral Fellow Link to USC Market Title Business Title (Internal Title) Post Doctoral Campus Columbia Work County Richland ...

Touro University

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Vallejo, CA

$59K/yr

We are seeking a motivated post-doctoral fellow to join the Mass Spectrometry Laboratory at Touro University California, under the direction of Dr. Jean-Marc Schwarz. Our research is focused on ...

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Post Doctoral information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$58.2K

$82.4K

How much do post doctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for post doctoral in California is $58,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $65,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a post doctoral?

Post Doctoral positions, often called postdocs, are temporary research roles that individuals take after completing their doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent). These positions allow scholars to deepen their expertise, conduct independent research, and contribute to academic publications under the mentorship of senior researchers. Postdocs are common in academia and research institutions and often serve as a stepping stone to permanent faculty or research positions. The duration of a postdoc can range from one to several years depending on the field and funding. Responsibilities typically include conducting experiments, publishing papers, and sometimes teaching or mentoring students.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers when transitioning to independent research roles?

Postdoctoral researchers often face challenges such as securing independent funding, building a unique research niche, and balancing competing demands like publishing, teaching, and networking. Navigating the shift from working under a principal investigator to leading their own projects requires developing grant-writing skills and establishing a track record of publications. Additionally, postdocs must actively seek mentorship and collaboration opportunities, as networking within their academic community can be crucial for career advancement into faculty or industry roles.

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

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher, you need a doctorate in a relevant field, strong research methodology skills, and a proven record of scientific publications. Proficiency with statistical software, laboratory equipment, and grant writing platforms is often required. Excellent analytical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication skills help set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are critical for conducting high-impact research, securing funding, and building a successful academic or industry career.

What is the difference between Post Doctoral vs Research Scientist?

AspectPost DoctoralResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (PhD)Master's or PhD, depending on the field
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universitiesResearch labs, industry, academia
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutionsCorporations, government agencies, academia
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Post Doctoral positions are typically research roles held after earning a PhD, mainly in academic or research institutions. Research Scientists may have similar credentials but often work in industry or applied research settings. While both roles involve conducting research, Post Doctorals focus on gaining additional expertise and publishing, whereas Research Scientists may be involved in product development or applied projects.

What are popular job titles related to Post Doctoral jobs in California?

For Post Doctoral jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Post Doctoral jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Post Doctoral jobs in California are:

Post Doctoral jobs near you
Infographic showing various Post Doctoral job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,249 per year, or $28 per hour.

Post Doctoral

University of South Carolina

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$53K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Posting Summary
Logo Posting Number RTF00167PO26 USC Market Title Post Doctoral Fellow Link to USC Market Title https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/156387 Business Title (Internal Title) Post Doctoral Campus Columbia Work County Richland College/Division College of Engineering and Computing Department CEC Chemical Engineering Anticipated Hiring Range To commensurate with qualifications Location of Vacancy Part/Full Time Full Time Hours per Week 40 Work Schedule
  • Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.
  • Schedule may change to meet the needs of the college
Type of Staff Position Staff Research Grant (SRGP) Basis 12 months Job Search Category Post-doctoral
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below

The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.

South Carolina Retirement Yes State Insurance Programs Yes Annual Leave Yes Sick Leave Yes
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
The Postdoctoral Associate will conduct research on the computational design of soft materials using molecular simulation and artificial intelligence. The position will support startup-funded research in the Jiang Group focused on integrated modeling and machine learning for energy and circular-economy applications. The Post Doctoral Associate will design and execute simulation and machine-learning studies, analyze results, disseminate findings through publications and presentations, mentor junior researchers, and support proposal development.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
  • Requires a Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in area of research specialty by the start date of employment.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials Preferred Qualifications
  • Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Computational Chemistry, Chemical Physics, or a closely related field.
  • Experience with molecular simulation, machine learning, or related computational methods for molecular or materials systems.
  • Background in polymer science, soft materials, complex fluids, or related areas.
  • Proficiency in scientific programming with Python and/or C++. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Knowledge of computational methods for molecular and materials research.
  • Ability to design, execute, and analyze computational studies independently.
  • Proficiency in scientific programming and effective written and verbal communication.
Job Duties
Job Duty
Conduct molecular simulation studies of soft materials. Analyze structure, dynamics, and transport properties using computational tools. Maintain reproducible workflows and manage data on local and high-performance computing resources.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 35 Job Duty
Develop and apply machine learning methods for computational soft materials research. Build and evaluate models using simulation and experimental data to predict material properties and guide further study. Document datasets, benchmark performance, and interpret results for validation and follow-up analysis.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 35 Job Duty
Prepare manuscripts, presentations, and progress updates based on research findings. Communicate results through group meetings, reports, and scholarly outputs. Contribute to proposal development for future external funding.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 20 Job Duty
Provide technical guidance to graduate and undergraduate researchers working on related projects. Participate in collaborative research activities within the group. Support group operations through meetings, coordination, and knowledge sharing.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 10
Position Attributes
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. No
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies 1 Desired Start Date Position End Date Job Open Date 07/14/2026 Job Close Date 09/15/2026 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicant
Applicants must upload a copy of their C.V/resume' and provide details in the work employment history section.
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.

Quicklink for Posting https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/209432 EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.

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