ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Postdoc Fellow Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

All JobsPostdoc Fellow JobsPostdoc Fellow Jobs in Iowa

Postdoc Fellow information

See Iowa salary details

$23.5K

$55.4K

$78.4K

How much do postdoc fellow jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc fellow in Iowa is $55,437.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $62,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Postdoc Fellow, you need advanced expertise in your research field, a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), and a strong record of academic publications. Familiarity with specialized research methodologies, data analysis software, and laboratory or computational tools relevant to your discipline is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and collaboration skills are essential soft skills that set successful postdocs apart. These competencies are vital for producing impactful research, contributing to academic teams, and advancing your career in academia or industry.

What is a postdoc fellow?

A Postdoc Fellow, short for Postdoctoral Fellow, is a researcher who has completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and is engaged in further academic or scientific training. The position allows individuals to deepen their expertise in a specific area, contribute to ongoing research projects, and develop skills necessary for independent research careers. Postdoc Fellows typically work under the supervision of a principal investigator, often in universities, research institutes, or industry labs. The fellowship usually lasts from one to several years and can be a stepping stone to faculty or advanced research positions.

What are some common challenges postdoc fellows face when transitioning from a PhD program to a postdoctoral position?

Many Postdoc Fellows find the transition from a structured PhD program to a more independent postdoctoral role challenging. As a Postdoc, you're expected to manage your own research projects, develop proposals, and often mentor graduate students, all while building your publication record. Navigating increased expectations for independence and productivity, while also seeking long-term career opportunities, can be demanding. Establishing clear communication with your principal investigator and proactively seeking mentorship can help ease this transition and set you up for future success.

What is the difference between Postdoc Fellow vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoc FellowResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in relevant fieldMaster's or PhD, often with specialized experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutionsIndustry labs, corporate R&D, or academia
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government research agenciesPrivate companies, biotech, pharma, tech firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research rolesCareer advancement or industry research roles

Postdoc Fellows typically hold a PhD and work in academic or research institutions, focusing on specialized research projects. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but work in industry settings, applying research to product development or innovation. While both roles involve research, Postdoc Fellows are usually in temporary, training-focused positions, whereas Research Scientists are more permanent and industry-oriented.

Postdoc Fellow jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoc Fellow job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,437 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Art Two-Year Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship (Start Fall 2026)

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Grinnell College rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Department of Art invites applications for a two-year Andrew W. Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship in Video production and Digital Media Fall 2026. Eligible candidates must have received their terminal PhD or MFA degree in 2023 or later. The annual teaching load for the Mellon Fellow is two courses per year (one per semester). The Mellon Fellow will support both the Art Studio Major and the Film and Media Studies (FMS) concentration by teaching two FMS/ART video production courses in AY26-27 and two ART digital media studio courses in AY27-28. The FMS-255 Fundamentals of Video Production course is a FMS Concentration requirement, and will connect with a wide range of Majors/Concentrations across campus. The ART-246 level Digital Media course is an elective Studio Art major course that helps to fulfil the major's requirements. The Fellow will also be expected to share their research with the Grinnell community and to be a contributing member of the department. Additional information about our curriculum and faculty can be found at Film and Media Studies Concentration: https://www.grinnell.edu/academics/majorsconcentrations/film-media and Studio Art Major: https://www.grinnell.edu/academics/majorsconcentrations/studio-art
Qualifications
Eligible candidates must have received their terminal PhD or MFA degree in 2023 or later.
Application Instructions
In letters of application, candidates should discuss their interest in developing as a teacher and scholar in a highly selective undergraduate liberal arts college that emphasizes close student-faculty interaction. They should also discuss their potential to contribute to a college community that maintains a diversity of people and perspectives as one of its core values. To be assured of full consideration, all application materials should be received by March 6 2026.
To apply, candidates will need to upload the following materials:
  • A letter of application
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Graduate transcripts (copies are acceptable)
  • 10 artworks which may include a combination of images and time-based media (The total run time for all submitted time-based media must not exceed 30 minutes-please provide links to time-based media in portfolio)
  • One description of a student creative research project handout that serves as a course requirement
  • A teaching philosophy that addresses your approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • A list of three professional references with their email addresses and phone numbers.

Questions about this search should be directed to both search chairs, Professor Andrew Kaufman & Assistant Professor Nicky Tavares at StudioArtSearch@grinnell.edu or 641-269-4378.

What Grinnell College employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply