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Postdoc Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoc Research Assistant information

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$21K

$62.6K

$170.5K

How much do postdoc research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc research assistant in the United States is $62,609.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Postdoc Research Assistants and how can they be addressed?

Postdoc Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, managing time effectively amidst multiple responsibilities, and securing funding or publishing results. Navigating these hurdles typically involves proactive communication with supervisors, setting clear research goals, and staying organized with project timelines. Building a strong professional network and seeking mentorship within the research group can also support career development and help address common obstacles.

What are Postdoc Research Assistants?

Postdoc Research Assistants are individuals who have recently earned a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) and engage in advanced academic or scientific research under the supervision of senior researchers or principal investigators. Their responsibilities typically include conducting experiments, analyzing data, publishing results, and sometimes mentoring graduate or undergraduate students. These positions are often temporary and serve as a bridge between doctoral studies and permanent academic or industry positions. The experience gained as a Postdoc Research Assistant is valuable for developing specialized expertise and building a professional research portfolio.

What is the difference between Postdoc Research Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectPostdoc Research AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) often in a specific fieldBachelor's or Master's degree, sometimes with relevant experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, laboratoriesUniversities, research centers, industry labs
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academic research projects, postdoctoral programsResearch projects in academia or industry, often more independent
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in academic research, career progressionComparing research roles, job requirements, and responsibilities

In summary, a Postdoc Research Assistant typically holds a Ph.D. and works on academic research projects under supervision, focusing on gaining experience and publishing findings. A Research Associate usually has a bachelor's or master's degree and may work more independently on research tasks, often in both academic and industry settings. The roles differ mainly in educational requirements and level of independence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoc Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoc Research Assistant, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, advanced research skills, and a strong publication record. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, laboratory equipment, and data management systems is often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication skills help you work well in multidisciplinary research teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovative research, publishing impactful findings, and advancing scientific knowledge.
More about Postdoc Research Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Postdoc Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Postdoc Research Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoc Research jobs? The most popular types of Postdoc Research jobs are:
What states have the most Postdoc Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoc Research Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Postdoc Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,609 per year, or $30.1 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Assistant

Postdoctoral Research Assistant

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Postdoctoral Research Assistant
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
The Postdoctoral Fellow will join the Jaiswal Laboratory in the Department of Health and Kinesiology at Purdue University. The lab's research focuses on understanding how cellular metabolism regulates tissue function, skeletal muscle plasticity, neuromuscular junction integrity, immune-metabolic interactions, and organismal health during aging and metabolic disease. The fellow will conduct independent and collaborative research projects investigating molecular and metabolic mechanisms controlling muscle physiology, glucose homeostasis, and immune cell function, using advanced in vivo, ex vivo, and molecular techniques. This position provides specialized training in experimental design, metabolic phenotyping, and scientific communication, preparing the fellow for a successful career in academia or industry.
Core Competencies
Education and Experience:
  • Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology, Metabolic Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a related field.
  • Experience with animal models, skeletal muscle physiology, metabolic assays, and molecular biology techniques preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot complex experiments.

Skills:
  • Strong written and oral scientific communication skills.
  • Proficiency in statistical analysis, data visualization, and bioinformatics approaches.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team.
  • Familiarity with laboratory safety and institutional protocols for animal and cell research.

How to Apply
To apply, submit a letter of application, curriculum vite, statement of research, and the names and contact infromation of three references through the "apply" link.
Review of applications will begin immedietly and will continue until the position is filled. Anticipated start date is June 1, 2026.
For more information regarding the position, contact Dr. Natasha Jaiswal at jaiswa19@purdue.edu.
A background check will be required for employment in this position.
Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disibilities, and veterans, are encouraged to apply.
About Purdue
Purdue University is located in West Lafayette, Indiana, within easy driving distance of Indianapolis and Chicago.
Purdue University is one of the nation's leading land-grant universities, with a full range of academic majors, more than 45,000 students and more than 10,000 employees.
FLSA Status
Exempt

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