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Postdoc Research Associate Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoc Research Associate information

See Rhode Island salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do postdoc research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for postdoc research associate in Rhode Island is $19.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for a Postdoc Research Associate within a research institution?

As a Postdoc Research Associate, you will frequently collaborate with principal investigators, graduate students, and fellow postdocs both within your department and across interdisciplinary teams. These collaborations often involve co-authoring research papers, designing experiments, and sharing specialized expertise or equipment. Many institutions also encourage postdocs to participate in seminars, lab meetings, and grant-writing sessions, which foster networking and skill development. Such teamwork not only enriches your research but also broadens your professional network, which can be crucial for future career advancement.

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

AspectPostdoc Research AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., often with more experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, labsUniversities, research centers, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and government researchAcademia, industry, biotech, pharma
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Postdoc Research Associate and a Research Scientist lies in experience level and career stage. Postdoc Research Associates are typically early-career researchers with a Ph.D. working on specific projects, often aiming for academic careers. Research Scientists usually have more experience, may hold advanced degrees, and work on broader research initiatives in academia or industry. Both roles require strong research skills and doctoral credentials, but their responsibilities and career paths differ.

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

To thrive as a Postdoc Research Associate, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, robust research experience, and advanced analytical skills. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and scientific publishing platforms is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration are essential soft skills for presenting findings and working within research teams. These skills ensure high-quality research output, effective teamwork, and successful advancement of scientific knowledge.

What is a Postdoc Research Associate?

A Postdoc Research Associate is an individual who has completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and is engaged in advanced academic or scientific research, usually on a temporary contract. Postdocs work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member, contributing to ongoing research projects and often leading their own studies. Their main goal is to gain further research experience, publish findings, and develop skills needed for academic or industry careers. Postdoc positions are common in universities, research institutes, and some private sector organizations.
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Postdoc Research Associate jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Postdoc Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Postdoc Research Associate job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,472 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


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Job description

Description
We are searching for a postdoctoral research associate to join a NASA funded project. The research includes analyses of extraterrestrial samples (carbonaceous meteorites, asteroid samples) using various chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques, as well as construction of an interactive GCMS and chromatography database for organic compounds in extraterrestrial samples.
For this position, Brown offers only the J-1 visa classification to scholars who need immigration sponsorship in order to enter the U.S. and commence lawful employment under the terms of their appointment
Qualifications
The candidate should have a strong background in analytical organic chemistry using various GC, HPLC/UPLC, and mass spectrometry techniques, with a Ph.D. in Analytical chemistry, Organic Geochemistry, astrobiology or related fields. Past experience in meteorite and asteroid research is a plus but not absolutely required. The ideal candidate should also have significant experience and expertise in MATLAB and/or Python coding as well as strong motivation in applying artificial intelligence in analyzing complex organic assemblages and discovery of new proxies for various Cosmo-organic chemical processes. Strong motivation and interest in academic research in cosmo-organic chemistry and/or origin of life topics are important. The postdoctoral research associate will be directly supervised by Prof. Yongsong Huang, with collaboration with Dr. Philipp Heck at University of Chicago. Development of novel internal and external collaborations is strongly encouraged.
Application Instructions
Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and a 3-5 page statement of research that includes a summary of research accomplishments, current research goals, and a short overview of proposed research to be conducted during the fellowship. Candidates should address how they would contribute to the research mission of our diverse and inclusive living-learning community. Applications should be submitted via https://apply.interfolio.com/187932 Review of applications will begin on June 15, 2026.

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